Shopping can be stressful. Adding shopping to your growing to-do list this season can be overwhelming.
Reduce stress and make time for what matters most — the reason for the season.
Check out these ways you can minimize shopping stress this Christmas season.
Tips to Minimize Christmas Shopping Stress
Shop Early
There are many benefits to tackling Christmas shopping early. First, you beat the rush and skip the long lines. Second, while other may be frantically trying to get gifts late in December, you can rest easy knowing that it’s done.
Shopping early allows you to calmly browse at a slower pace versus rushing through the experience. Plus businesses seem to be offering their special deals earlier each year.
Enjoy taking your time picking out those special gifts for the ones you love.
Utilize Off-Peak Times
I have two favorite times that I love to shop because I don’t like busy stores or waiting in long lines to check out.
My first favorite time to shop is during my lunch hour. It allows me the opportunity to get out and walk around a bit while strolling through quiet stores.
Second, if I must shop on the weekend, I shop first thing Saturday morning. There’s something extra enjoyable about walking through the store when it’s quiet. And you can feel accomplished by completing your shopping errands before noon.
Drive Up, Ship It, or Pick Up in Store
There are so many ways to shop these days.
One way to minimize stress while shopping is to find the delivery method that works best for you. Think, when do you feel the most calm — browsing slowly through the store or scrolling online from your couch?
If you enjoy shopping from home, select stores that offer drive up, shipping, or pick up. If you’re feeling short on time this year, this is a great way to maximize your hours!
Make a List
I am sure you’ve heard this time and time again, but it’s true! Making a list can help you reduce stress during the holiday season.
First, making a gift list can help you easily track what you’ve purchased versus what’s left on the list. In addition, a gift list can help you stay on budget by simply sticking to the list.
It’s easy to get sucked into all the deals. And a list can be an easy way to prevent overspending, which can cause extra stress.
Make a Plan
Before heading into the holiday season, take a moment to create a plan.
Decide when you will shop and what you will shop for. Make sure your plan includes your schedule and availability. You don’t want to accidently let a free day go by that you’ll regret later. And on the other hand, you don’t want to plan shopping over a day you’re supposed to have family time.
Making a plan can help you feel more in control during a stressful time.
Make it Fun
Look for ways to make shopping this holiday season fun. Combine shopping with a lunch with friends.
If you’re taking your children, combine it with a fun activity, such as playing or eating somewhere they love. Or take the time to play a game in the store. When shopping with my children, we always love taking a pause to smell all the candles we can.
And finally, give a smile while you’re out shopping. A simple smile can make someone’s day. Let’s spread joy, not stress, this Christmas season.
