Posted on: November 24, 2006
Four Simple Steps to Stress-Free Shopping
Stakes are high in the hunt for the perfect gift. Here's how to keep your cool.
By Timothy R. Schulte
CTW Features
They elbow you in the aisle and emphatically berate the poor salesperson trying to help. Rude shoppers are just as much a part of the holiday season as tinsel and garland, but rather than decorate they aggravate. Lucky for you, you don’t have to let the scrooges of the shopping season ruin your holidays. Take our tips for painless promenade through the stores:
Sketch a Game Plan
Before setting foot outside your home – let alone into the mall – know exactly what you plan buy, for whom and where you’re going to purchase it. This plan of attack means less time dawdling in the store and the less likely you’ll be to run into some grumpy shoppers. Also, if you can, take breaks in between stores to run your bags out to the trunk. The retreat from the store and fresh air will be an escape from the shopping chaos, and the lighter load will make you a happier shopper.
Arm Yourself
With weapons to combat hunger and boredom. Shoppers will not only fill up lines at coffee outlets and food courts, they’ll be on edge as their caffeine deprivation combines with shopping angst. Avoid the crowd by stashing a snack in your purse and bringing along your own beverage. You’ll save yourself money, time and trouble. Your iPod or a sudoku make trusty companions as you’re waiting in line to check out.
Avoid Them Altogether
Nights and weekends are prime time for holiday shoppers. Weekday mornings and afternoons are as calm a time to shop as you’ll find. If you can, take a personal day to wipe out your shopping during a low tide, or rearrange your schedule as best you can to do your shopping when chaos is at a minimum. If anything, you’ll be at a lower risk of coming to fisticuffs over a Tickle Me Elmo TMX.
Barter Your Duties
Even if you’re not feeling brave enough to weather the mall on a December Saturday, someone is. If your friend’s heading to the store, arm her with your list and a fistful of dollars while you take on her baking obligations for the day. You may end up covered in flour, but the sweet smell of gingerbread will make it all worthwhile. And you won’t be coming home with any bruises or holiday anger.