What’s the motivation to know about coworkers’ lives?

To keep the workplace running smoothly, you need to have at least a cursory knowledge of coworkers’ lives. Nothing tests that knowledge quite like mandatory holiday gifts. Whether it’s a White Elephant, Secret Santa, or Holiday Grab, you can really impress your coworkers — and maybe even your boss — with the perfect present.
   But don’t worry, and be of good cheer, because we’ve got great gift ideas for every member of your office — no matter how superficial your knowledge of their lives outside of work.
   Is there someone in your office covered in so much cat hair everyday that you want to attack them with a lint brush? I asked HR and they said that’s not allowed. Whatever. Instead, try a cat post-it note dispenser.
   The figurine is weighted so you can grab individual post-it notes with one hand. I assume that’s important because their other hand is currently petting a cat.
   You know the guy: he’s just counting the days until he retires, but he’s only 25. Every office has a Grinch among them. If you draw this person’s name out of the hat, get him a shirt that says it all: "I don’t care. " The shirts from Feelin’ Good Tees are made from 100% preshrunk cotton, so they require 0% effort.
   They’re also available in eight different sizes and a dozen colors. Every office has its curmudgeon — and if you don’t know who it is, it might be time to look in the mirror.