The holiday season is a stressful time for everyone. If you're not trying to find the perfect gift for that friend or family member, you're probably busy cooking for your family dinner or trying to finalize plans for when everyone can get together to celebrate the season. It's important for us to remember when we're out doing our Christmas shopping that the people who work at the stores we patronize are people too, and they are under just as much stress as we are.

I have been confronted with the question "How did you get so lucky to have to work on (insert holiday here)" numerous times. Try to avoid asking customer service workers this question and first stop and remember that the reason they are working is because you are there asking them that question.

Be patient with workers when they don't have or can't find the item that you're looking for. Remember that if a store is sold out of the toy, game, or clothing item, that you are looking to buy as a gift, it's not the worker's fault. They are merely the messenger.

When you're standing in that long Christmas line trying to purchase your items, remember that the line is moving just as slowly for everyone there. Remember that the lines are always crazy during this time of the year. Remember that the cashier is doing their best to get everyone through the line in a reasonable time.

Remember that the holiday season is about giving, spreading cheer, and spending time with those you love. The people who work in customer service are working during their holidays. Try to remember to spread cheer when out doing your gift shopping and be kind to those who are serving you during their holiday season.