When keeping track of every loved one's wishes and preference is taking a toll on your time, brains and finances, relax, because this page is about to solve your problems. No matter what the occasion is and no matter who the recipient is, there are some gifts that can literally make just anybody happy. Check out some generic gift ideas that you can use that will leave both you, the giver, and your loved one, the recipient, shiny, bright and happy.

• CARDS. Cards are generally inexpensive, but they convey so much warmth. When you're pressed for time and money, send your friend or loved one a card. Remember, the real gift is not the piece of paper itself, but the words and thoughts written in it. If you want, you can even add your own message at the empty spaces.

• FLOWERS. Whether you're saying “I love you,” “Get well soon” or “Happy anniversary” to someone, flowers are the perfect choice. You can do the legwork yourself and personally surprise the person. You also have the convenient option of just dialing the number of a flower shop and paying the staff to deliver the flowers to the specified recipient. If there is something about flowers that no commercially wrapped gift can surpass, that something is the gift of life. You may be paying for the flower arrangement and delivery, but you're literally getting something far more valuable for free: the joy of seeing something unfold naturally. Here's a bright and romantic idea: give flower buds so the recipient can see them bloom.

• FOOD OR DRINKS. Minimize a host's expense on the usual party fare by donating something to eat and drink on his/her table. Whether the occasion is as simple as a quiet celebration for passing the driver's test or as pompous as bridal showers and stud parties, food or drinks are always a welcome gift, as these items speak of camaraderie and the good times. Cakes and wines are the most popular perishable gifts on the list. However, if you plan to donate something special, take note of any medical conditions and allergies the recipient may be suffering from. Giving a tub of ice cream to a diabetic could just be a wasted investment, for instance.

• GIFT CHEQUE. Money makes the world go round, and the gift recipient happy. When you have no idea what you will possibly give, give a gift cheque and make sure you insert it in a neat, crisp and appropriately signed envelope. You are not only giving the recipient money to spend, but also the power to decide which item to get for himself or herself. Gift cheques are particularly good to use on book shops, boutiques and grocery stores.

Whether you're just giving someone flowers, a bottle of wine or a crisp gift cheque, do not worry if you cannot give something unique; doing so does not render your boon useless even if it's not that special. What matters most is that you remembered someone on that particular occasion.