It’s the same story each year. We say we’re going to do better with next year’s Christmas shopping after experiencing the painful last-minute rush. Then November hits, then Thanksgiving, and finally, the 20th is looking us right in the face. Late Christmas shopping is a pattern that we understandably fall into. Whether it’s recovering from finals, dealing with work, or whatever else, we always find ways to procrastinate the gift search until the very last minute. Luckily, successful late shopping can be done... with a little more work.

Do your research!

Even with Christmas coming very rapidly, there’s still plenty of websites and shopping ads to look over before the big hunt. Target, Wal-Mart, and Best Buy all have specials and sales for the holidays, and it’s important to double-check, or even triple-check, each one before planning your attack. Also, think about which gifts could have the most demand. If it’s clothing, go with caution. If it’s electronics, plan accordingly, and shop with extra caution.

Strategize!

With such a short time span, it’s important to plan in which stores you’ll be more successful in obtaining your gifts. Is Target more popular in your area compared to Wal-Mart? Which one has the best sales and deals pertaining to you? These are the questions that you need to ask yourself before deciding where to shop.

Be determined, and most of all, focused!

After procrastinating, now’s the time to take the shopping game seriously. Don’t let anything else get in the way of getting the gifts your loved ones want. Shop with conviction, like you're on a mission!

A small list to be sure, but these tips will definitely help get your mind right for any last-minute gifts you’re searching for. Shop accordingly, and most of all, have fun!