The most wonderful time of the year is also the most stressful time of the year, especially if you have to go Christmas shopping. But don't let the holiday hustle and bustle drive you to drink. Instead, follow these 12 tips to survive the Christmas shopping season with your sanity intact.
**1. Start early.**
The early bird gets the best deals, or at least the best parking spot. So don't wait until the last minute to do your holiday shopping. Start in November, or even earlier if you can.
**2. Make a list and check it twice.**
Before you hit the stores, make a list of everyone you need to buy for. And then check it twice to make sure you didn't forget anyone. Trying to remember everyone on your list while you're shopping is a recipe for disaster.
**3. Set a budget.**
It's easy to get caught up in the Christmas spirit and overspend. So set a budget before you start shopping, and stick to it. This will help you avoid a nasty financial hangover in January.
**4. Shop online.**
If you can, shop online instead of in stores. This will save you time, gas money, and the hassle of dealing with crowds. Plus, you can often find better deals online than you can in stores.
**5. Take breaks.**
Shopping can be exhausting, so it's important to take breaks. Stop for a coffee or a snack, or just sit down and people-watch for a while. This will help you recharge and avoid getting overwhelmed.
**6. Don't be afraid to ask for help.**
If you're having trouble finding something, don't be afraid to ask a store employee for help. They're there to help you, and they'll be happy to point you in the right direction.
**7. Be prepared for crowds.**
Crowds are inevitable during the holiday shopping season. So be prepared for them. Wear comfortable shoes, bring a snack, and have a plan for how you're going to escape if it gets too overwhelming.
**8. Don't take it personally.**
If someone cuts in front of you in line, or if a store employee is rude, don't take it personally. It's just the holiday stress getting to them. Try to stay calm and keep your sense of humor.
**9. Remember the reason for the season.**
Christmas is about more than just gifts. It's about spending time with family and friends, and celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. So don't get so caught up in the shopping that you forget the real meaning of the holiday.
**10. Enjoy the experience.**
Shopping for Christmas can be a lot of fun, especially if you have a good attitude. So try to enjoy the experience. Listen to Christmas music, look at the pretty lights, and soak up the holiday atmosphere.
**11. Don't give up.**
No matter how stressful the Christmas shopping season gets, don't give up. Just keep plugging away, and you'll eventually get everything you need.
**12. Reward yourself.**
Once you're finished shopping, reward yourself. Go out for a nice dinner, or watch your favorite Christmas movie. You've earned it!