Most of us spent the past several months sheltering in place, trying to flatten the curve by social distancing.

Then, we blinked, and all of a sudden, we’re nearing the end of 2020—even though many people (myself included) probably felt like the year couldn’t be over soon enough.

With November and December at our doorstep, along with the holidays therein, this special season feels more sentimental than ever. Some call it a silver lining, but the gravity of the situation across the world has taught us to cherish the time we get to spend with our loved ones in ways maybe we didn’t appreciate as much before.

Memories are the most valuable gift we can give each other, but it never hurts to show how much you care with a thoughtful gift picked out in their honour.

But out of everyone on your shopping list this season—your mum, dad, gran, best mates, distant colleagues you once shared an office with, and perhaps even the lonely old man in the flat downstairs—the hardest person to shop for may inevitably fall upon your boyfriend!

No matter how nerve-wracking this gift-buying episode may be, seeing your beau happy is a great feeling. Let's dive right into it.

Sharp blazer

If your man has been working from home like many of us have, there’s a great chance he has likely fallen off the fashion game.

When you don’t have to leave your flat all day, it’s very easy to loaf around in loungewear, looking knackered and dishevelled, as if he just rolled out of bed in the afternoon.

If you want to give him a slight nudge and help him dress a little better, then a sharp blazer is just the trick.

The crisp collar and clean lines will reveal the dashing, young brood you once fell for, and it might even inspire him to take you to dinner and finally pop the question you’ve been dropping hints about!

Timeless watch

Continuing on in the air of sophistication, a lovely timeless timepiece will turn any boy into a classy gentleman.

If he wears a watch then silver watches for men make for spectacular, evergreen presents that are guaranteed to withstand the test of time.  Or, you can opt for a stainless full-hunter pocket watch for that classic feel and to make it more special, you can have it engraved with a sweet message or a memorable date for him.

The refined accessory tells more than just time—it can be a fashion statement too or symbol of success. And, when he wears it, he’ll think of you all day and will never again be able to bodge a date with a late arrival!

Fitness tracker

Maybe the love of your life could stand to shed a pound or two after all those lockdown takeaways, but you don't want to say it out loud.

Or, perhaps the two of you want to make a commitment to a healthier lifestyle and get fit exercising together for that fancy honeymoon you’ve been dreaming about.

A fitness tracker is a high-tech gadget that he’s sure to appreciate, especially if you go for a matching his-and-hers set.

After all, health is wealth and this gift shows him that you’re in it for the end game.

A puppy

If he’s been dreaming of owning a dog for a while now, then why not make this dream come true?

Okay, this idea may be a bit cheeky, but honestly is there anything more adorable than a cute lil’ puppy with a bow on its head sitting beneath the Christmas tree?

I dare you to find something more adorable. Dogs make for excellent companions, and we all could use more of that in our lives about this time.

The best way to add a dog to your family is through adoption at the local animal shelter as there are plenty of rescue dogs that need a home.

It’ll be a friend for life and a fantastic first step toward your future together.

Just remember, dogs aren’t only for Christmas, so you really need to think this one through!

Final word

At the end of the day, your man just wants to feel loved and appreciated. No need to go above and beyond—just a simple token of affection will do.

The thing that matters most is to appreciate time with one another, express gratitude for each other’s health and safety, and set intentions for how you intend to make up for lost time once COVID clears up in 2021.