How to Survive Working Black Friday

 Anyone in retail, from the top executive to the newly minted part time retail worker, both loves and hates Black Friday. It’s quite possibly the busiest day of the year and a great lead in to the pre-Christmas season. Companies hand out bonuses (if you’re lucky) and extra hours, which sounds wonderful in theory. At least until you’re the only referee in a cage match between two Karens who both absolutely NEED the same pair of shoes.

Here’s how to survive working Black Friday:

STAY HYDRATED

Forgetting to drink anything can seem like a great idea until you’re 5 hours into your shift and fighting a massive headache. It takes a split second to run into the back room and grab a beverage. Even if you have to run away from customers to do it, you’ll be back in no time. 

TAKE YOUR BREAKS

It’s easy to forget to take a break when you’re really busy, but we have breaks for a reason. Even if you don’t eat, it’s your chance to unwind and take a breather. Use the time. Call your family. Meditate. Do some yoga breathing. 

STAND ON ONE FOOT

To avoid sore feet, try standing on one foot and then the other. If you’re required to be behind a counter all day, it might be worth asking the boss to put in a chair or stool. 

BEND DOWN TO CLEAN

Sore back? Look for low merchandise tables and items that have fallen on the floor. Since pushing things under a rack to steal later is a common theft technique, the bosses will thank you for your diligence…and if you take an extra few seconds to pick stuff up, your back will thank you for the stretch! 

LOOK FOR SOMETHING IN THE BACK 

When your stress or physical suffering levels reach quitting levels, tell a customer you need to look for something in the back. Go to the back room. Breathe. Scream into your coat. Sit or crouch down. Really LOOK for that item. Who knows? You might even find it! 

OFFER TO HELP OUT

Remember that you’re not the only one there. Everyone is struggling. Ask others if they need help. Volunteer without being asked. Check in on your co-workers and make sure they’re doing okay. Remind others to take their breaks. 

DO ABSOLUTELY NOTHING AFTER WORK

Busy days are not the days to make plans after work (unless it’s going out for a drink or watching your favourite show). It’s fine to skip the gym today. Trust me, you already got your steps and burned your calories. 

TAKE BATHROOM BREAKS

Forgetting to use the bathroom is bad for your physical and mental health. Besides, do you know how you look after 4 hours of Black Friday? It is DEFINITELY time for a touch-up! 

SQUARE BREATHING

Sometimes you can’t go anywhere. You’re stuck behind a counter or till with no freedom. Try this: breath in while counting to 4, hold your breath for four, breath out for 4, hold your breath for 4, and repeat. Especially if you’ve been clenching your stomach, you’ll feel better. 

KEEP A PHOTO WITH YOU

Keeping a photo of the person or thing you need money for can be helpful. Whether it’s your family, your dog, or a sick new pair of boots, keeping a print out in your pocket and taking a glance now and then can really help you get through the day. 

DRUGS

Honestly, a little cocaine can really put the pep in your step! Of course, I’m kidding. But never forget your meds when you’re going to be working a challenging shift. It’s also good to keep some Motrin or Tylenol on hand. Especially during the pandemic, when we have to wear masks to work, it’s important to keep medications like inhalers handy! 

Ok, that’s all the help I can give you. If we all survive Black Friday weekend, I’ll be back tomorrow. 

Pray for me!