You know that feeling when someone hands you a Christmas present and you didn’t get one for them?

It’s awkward. You wonder if they expected a gift from you, and if their feelings are hurt that you don’t have one. Moreover, it’s humbling. Someone did something generous for you, and you gave nothing in return.

Why does this make us so uncomfortable? Many times, we don’t want them to think poorly of us. We don’t want them to think that we can’t afford it, or aren’t organized enough.

We don’t want to be outdone.