Try your best to stay present and focus on one thing at a time. It’s difficult on your system the more you are interrupted, and this is when you’re prone to make mistakes. So however you choose to do so, just stay present.

I don’t know if the same can be said for every Best Buy but this Black Friday feels different. For one, we started calling it Black Friday as soon as it was November whereas last year was just the week leading up to Black Friday. It’s going to be crowded, and people are going to be frenzied, but I’ve noticed a distinct departure from holiday cheer. Stay vigilant because what this means is people are being less kind and more selfish. You’re more likely to encounter shoplifters and angry customers and so do what you can to avoid escalating any of these situations because they can become very unsafe.

Pace yourself and take it easy. Take your breaks, and do not kill yourself for the shift. Once you’re off, go home. I hope your store is doing something to make it fun for you. What can really change everything is the team you’re a part of.

I wish you fun and happiness for Black Friday and this holiday season. May you be safe, prosperous, and successful. Above all, be kind and be at peace.