Ten Must-Have Holiday Gifts for Instructional Design Freelancers

It's that special time of year again when we're all scratching our heads, trying to figure out the best gifts for our loved ones and dogs. Mainly our dogs.

This year, we thought we'd make things a little easier for those of you with Instructional Design freelancers on your list. You know, those super talented folks who create amazing learning experiences and are also self-employed bizness unicorns.

Sounds like a tough gig, eh? Well, that's why we're here! In this blog, we're gonna reveal our top ten gift picks to impress and inspire these hardworking freelancers in 2023.

As we all know, being a freelance Instructional Designer is no walk in the park! They tackle everything from content creation and project management to difficult clients and running their own business. So, a thoughtful gift can mean the world to them, making their daily tasks a little more manageable and their career journey a whole lot smoother.

We're talking about gifts that can help them work smarter, gifts that let them kick back and relax after a busy day, and, of course, gifts that'll bring a big ol' smile to their faces.

To be honest, they’d probably be perfectly happy with any kind of human interaction that doesn’t take place behind a computer screen. Toss ‘em a few bags of chips and a shiny object, and they’ll be set. Maybe they’re not that hard to shop for, after all.

Alright, let's get started and unwrap ten amazing gift ideas that are guaranteed to make any freelancer's holiday season brighter!

1. Blue Light Blocking Glasses

Take it from us: blue light blockers actually do work. Working at a computer all day causes a lot of eye strain, and these really help cut back on discomfort. We’re big fans of “Peepers” brand glasses— lightweight, stylish, and durable.

2. An iPad

We found out about some little startup called Apple. They make this thing called an iPad that’s a lifesaver for productivity, working on the go, and organization. Best kept secret!

We also recommend pairing it with a “Paperlike” screen protector! It gives you the sensation of writing on paper when used in combination with an Apple Pencil. Sounds a bit weird, but they really level up note-taking.

3. A Foot Rest

Placing a footrest under your desk can help provide support and reduce strain during long periods of sitting. Why work like a normie when you can work like a Queen? Or King.

4. Premium Subscriptions

We are huge fans of Canva Pro! It’s the most intuitive graphic design tool out there, and it’s always getting upgrades and new app integrations. A must-have, in our opinion!

For the writer in your life (which is likely all freelancers), we highly recommend Grammarly Premium. This little AI buddy checks and corrects your writing for you in real time. It’s saved us from many an awkward typo.

5. A Pegboard System

We are huge fans of a pegboard system! Get all that crap off your desk and onto the wall. When you think about it, what are walls, if not vertical desktops? We just blew your mind.

6. “Ditch Your Cubicle, Not Your Life: Become a Freelance Instructional Designer in 7 Months”

Hey, who put this here? This is our book! Welp, we might as well tell you about it. For the instructional designer in your life looking to go freelance-- it’s our book! Give the gift of a 7-month plan to go freelance!

7. Coffee Mug Warmer

Sometimes, all freelancers have to get through the day is a piping hot cup of coffee, tea, hot chocolate, or Ovaltine. A coffee mug warmer keeps those drinks nice and toasty!

Bonus tip: Mexican spiced ground chocolate is a delicious addition to any freelancer’s cup of coffee or just plain on its own! Heck, we eat it by the dry spoonful!

8. A Mini Vacuum Cleaner

We’re all guilty of eating lunch at our desks, but thanks to these tiny little dudes, crumbs are no longer an issue! Keyboards everywhere will thank you. Dogs, not so much.

9. A Laptop Stand

Turns out it’s really important to keep your laptop at eye level while working! Help out the neck and back of a freelancer you love with an adjustable laptop stand!

10. A framed photo of Ron Howard

Give the gift of Ron to someone you love deeply this season. But don’t just give the gift of Ron to anyone. Bestowing a photograph of Ron Howard is an honor reserved for only the most cherished souls in your life. Does wonders for the mood!

Conclusion

And there you have it, folks, our top ten gift picks for the freelance instructional designers in your life. But remember, it's not about breaking the bank or going over your budget to show someone you appreciate them.

In fact, the best gifts often cost nothing at all. A heartfelt note of thanks or acknowledgment of a job well done can mean the world to a freelancer who often works behind the scenes.

So whether you're splurging on a fancy ergonomic chair or simply sending a kind message of gratitude, remember that it's the thought and sentiment behind the gift that truly counts. We do recommend throwing in a bouncy ball, though. All us freelancers have cat-like reflexes and short attention spans.

Happy gifting!

Check out our full 44-item gift guide here!