Time coupon ideas

Coupons work because they turn good intentions into something claimable. The trick is offering things the other person actually wants, rather than things you are happy to do.

Write them from their point of view: what would take a job off their list or give them an hour to themselves?

For a partner

• One lie-in while I do the morning, no waking you for anything short of a fire.
• One evening where you pick the film and I do not complain about it.
• One full weekend where I handle all the meals and the shop.
• One night out with your friends, guilt-free, lift home included.

For parents and grandparents

• One tech afternoon: phone, TV, printer, passwords, all sorted.
• One garden day - mowing, hedges, the bit at the back you keep mentioning.
• One drive to anywhere you want to go, including the garden centre.
• One monthly phone call in the diary, same time every month.

For kids to give

• One washing up without being asked.
• One tidy bedroom, inspected and everything.
• One breakfast in bed, made by me.
• One hour of no arguing with my sister. Terms apply.

For friends

• One lift to the airport, any hour.
• One flat-pack build, tools provided.
• One emergency call-out for a bad day, phone or in person.
• One coffee a month for the next six months, my round.

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How to write it so it lands

• Offer what they would ask for, not what is easiest for you.
• Honour the first claim quickly - it sets the tone for the rest.
• Keep them in a card or envelope so they do not get lost.

Where to shop next

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Frequently asked questions

What is a time coupon?

A written promise of a specific job, favour or block of your time that the other person can cash in when they choose.

Are time coupons a real gift?

They are, when they are specific and honoured quickly. The gift is the hour off, not the paper.

How do you stop them being forgotten?

Give a small set, put an expiry on them, and offer a date yourself if none has been claimed by halfway.