With the hustle and bustle at the mall upon us, I know that many of you will be making your weekly (now daily) trips to pick up that extra little something that you forgot. Be prepared for long lines and probably rude salespeople and customers. I thought I would impart with my survival kit for Christmas mall shopping.

The Obstacle - The Parking Lot

Probably the most stressful part of holiday shopping is getting a good parking space and managing to not curse to Hades the other drivers around you. This moment is what starts off your attitude about your trip.

My Suggestion

If there is another entrace to the mall besides the main one... USE it! It might save you some time and frustration. Also, park further away from the mall. You will avoid the people waiting for spots AND you'll walk further so you can say goodbye to the extra inches on your thighs from cookies. :)

The Obstacle - Rude Salespeople

There is nothing I hate worse than spending money and having the people be rude when I'm checking out. When the holidays approach, their inner nastiness comes out.

My Suggestion

Hit up the stores that have an upbeat vibe to them. If that doesn't work, when you get to the till and the shop assistant is nasty.... maybe say something along the lines of how crazy it is and that you feel for them having to deal with irrate and out of control people. It will help break the ice because they know at that moment that you aren't going to be rude to them. Also, always make sure that you smile at them when you're done. Thank them for helping you and, of course, wish them a happy holiday!

The Obstacle - A Full Food Court.

During busy times, you know that the food court is going to be packed. People are going to be done shopping and are hungry. There will be men waiting for the wives, teens waiting on parents... bla bla bla. Anyway, you get the gist of it. It's hectic!

My Suggestion

Eat before you head out to the mall and bring some snacks in your bag to sustain you until you leave. That will help fight off the high and low sugar rushes and if it's a healthy snack, it will keep you energized. Another tip is to eat at an actual restaurant in the mall. They tend to not be as busy because people in them are actually having a meal and not a quick bite.

Please be safe this holiday and happy shopping!!

Photo from thewe.cc