Holiday shopping is in full swing. Like Santa, we have our lists. We are checking them and rechecking them. We are considering budgets. We want to maximize our time while we are in the mall. We need to check off everyone’s gifts. It’s a lot to consider, remember and prepare for.

As you set off for your trek to the outlet stores or downtown sidewalks, remember that decorum and manners are important if you are going to enjoy yourself. Christmas is about much more than presents. Hanukah is about remembering. The New Year honors others. When you are out taking care of those most important in your life, keep in mind the people you are around and come into contact with would like to enjoy being around you. Making sure your attitude is merry and bright will allow those who you walk beside, bump into and jockey for the front of the checkout line have a holly, jolly time too. And when everyone is happy, you’ll be happy too.

First and foremost, unless you are online shopping, keep in mind you are in a public space. Yes, you have an agenda and yes, time is of the utmost. But be sure to look around. Everyone around you has a very similar agenda. Everyone is busy. Everyone probably are in a hurry and would rather be lunching, relaxing or spending less money. By making allowances for those whose space you are sharing, they will most certainly do the same.

Language, cell phone use and general consideration for others needs to be considered. No matter your age, it’s important to listen to what you say is interpreted by those around you. In public it’s what you say AND how you say it. Television and movies may have duped you into believing that swearing in public is common and acceptable. In all honesty it’s rude and shows such a lack of class it’s embarrassing to even share space with that person.

Cell phones continue to be the number one annoyance among the general population. Yes, it’s important to get the correct size and color for your cute niece and nephew but does everyone in the children’s department need to know you think something is way too overpriced and you wouldn’t dress your dog in it? Again, this is not your space. You are sharing air and sound waves with everyone around you. Keep your conversations short, to the point, un-encumbered with foul language and free from negative opinions.
Shopping during the holidays can be a chore. When pushed to our limits, manners in general can wane. A great read by Kate Spade, aptly titled "Manners" is a great resource for shoppers and others who come face to face with people on a daily basis.

For many we’ve mastered the art of the internet and gift cards. Many people, however, still love the opportunity to get out in the public area and really shop till they drop. If shopping in looming large in your horizon, keep the general rules of etiquette in mind. You’ll have a better experience and those around you are more likely to enjoy their time too.