As the Canadian and US Thanksgiving celebrations comes to an end, we all turn our attention to the coming Christmas holidays.

With the best of intentions, we set out to fill our homes with cheer, buy gifts to show our loved ones how much we care, and make plans to connect with friends and family. But, all too often, our good intentions get lost in the frenzy of the season, and we are left with frustration, bad-tempers, and rudeness.

Help keep and spread the joy this holiday season with these tips for holiday shopping.

1. Keep smiling. Not only are smiles contagious, but they are proven to reduce stress and improve our mood.
2. Expect the crowds and delays. if you leave for your shopping excursion expecting to find a parking spot next to the door, to wander around undisturbed, and to get through checkouts without waiting in lines, you’ll soon be disappointed and frustrated because your experience didn’t meet your expectations. If you expect to park at the far end of the lot (or even take the bus), to jostle your way through the aisles, and to wait in long lines, you’ll still have to deal with the delays, but you won’t be disappointed and, if the crowds are not as bad as you thought, you’ll feel pleasantly surprised.
3. Always say “Please”, “Thank you”, and “You’re Welcome”. Good manners smooth the way for better service and creates a kinder, gentler atmosphere wherever you go. Even when you are feeling the stress of the season, remember your manners.
4. Be patient. Whether stuck in traffic or in a checkout line, feeling anxious and irritated won’t solve the problem or make it go any faster. Take a deep breath and accept the situation, then practise your smiling as you wait your turn. If you are in a checkout line, use this time to have your items and payment ready so you can speed things along.
5. Be friendly. Say “Hello” to the harried clerk behind the counter, be polite to other shoppers, smile a lot and be open to chit chat, as long as you don’t hold up the lines.
6. Stay calm and reasonable when dealing with problems. If a store is out of an advertised item, complaining or yelling at a salesclerk is futile. It isn’t their fault and they have no ability to change the situation. If necessary, ask to speak to the manager. Then frame your complaint clearly and simply. Avoid venting. Even if it makes you feel better, it will be at the expense of everyone else.
7. Be considerate when using a cell phone. They’re useful for getting quick advice or sizes, but remember that you are in a public place. Keep your voice down and, when you are interacting with a live person, put your phone away.
8. Avoid Shopping with children. Children quickly suffer from sensory overload at this time of the year. The crowds, the music, the toys, the lights, the excitement, the Santas! If possible, arrange to leave your children home while you shop. If they must accompany you, make sure they are well-rested and fed and keep your shopping trip as short as possible.

Have a great Christmas!