It’s that time of year again, when the holiday season is in full swing and the stress of gift shopping kicks in. While some people may enjoy the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, for others it brings out a darker side of their personality.

Here are five ways Christmas shopping can bring out the worst in us:.

1. Impatience

The holiday season is notorious for long lines, crowded stores, and irritable shoppers. As we rush to get everything on our list, it’s easy to become impatient with slow-moving lines or unhelpful staff.

This impatience can lead to snapping at others, making rude comments, or even becoming physically aggressive in extreme cases.

2. Greed

It’s easy to get caught up in the consumerism of Christmas, with advertisements and sales enticing us to buy more and more gifts. This can lead to a sense of greed, where we become more focused on what we’re getting rather than giving.

We may obsess over finding the perfect gift for someone, or become upset if we don’t receive as many gifts as we’d hoped.

3. Stress

Between trying to find the perfect gift, planning holiday meals and events, and dealing with travel or hosting obligations, the holiday season can be incredibly stressful.

This stress can lead to irritability, mood swings, and even physical health issues. When we’re stressed, we may be more prone to snapping at loved ones or becoming short-tempered with strangers.

4. Self-Centeredness

As we rush around trying to complete our holiday to-do lists, it’s easy to become self-centered and ignore the needs of others. We may cut in line or take up space in a store aisle without thinking about how it affects others.

We may also become so focused on our own obligations and tasks that we forget to check in on loved ones who may be struggling during the holiday season.

5. Overspending

With the pressure to buy the “perfect” gift and compete with others’ holiday spending, it’s easy to overspend during the holiday season.

This can lead to financial stress after the holidays are over, as well as regret or guilt over buying too much. Overspending can also lead to conflicts with loved ones who may not appreciate the amount of money we’ve spent on their gift.

While Christmas shopping can bring out the worst in us, it’s important to remember the true meaning of the holiday season – giving, love, and connection with others.

By staying mindful of our emotions and actions while shopping, we can aim to be our best selves even during the busiest, most stressful time of year.