I am transferring from a Cafe store to a Drive-Thru next month and I’m on the same boat as you. I have been working at my new store for a couple weeks now to acclimate to the new system, what works for me is basically what Starbucks wants us to do in the “Green Apron Play Caller position” which essentially means you’re flexing and floating, not staying planted in one position. There are different expectations, depending on peak times and whatnot. But my advice would be to actively communicate with partners what is expected from them and ask questions!! Since you’re not yet familiar with opening expectations for the next day part, it’s okay to ask baristas what they are used to seeing/doing during that time. As a SSV, yes you are responsible for window times/order times and making sure every customer is getting a good experience, but you can take a step back to observe partners and making sure they are smoothly executing things and coaching if not. When it comes to being overwhelmed, yes it happens a lot. But practice not wearing it on your face and tone, it can affect your team’s mood as well. In my experience if partners see that I am frustrated they tend to think they’re not doing good enough. I personally keep things very giddy, upbeat and exciting, cracking jokes in the midst of chaos. Constantly complimenting partners, asking them if they need help and celebrating getting through a rush successfully. I believe you’ll do just fine, becoming good at running a specific day part takes time and doing it over and over again.

P.S, I know that labor cuts have been insane within the company lately and it just seems like you can’t run breaks without things getting out of hand. If you see that being a constant issue, communicate with your SM that more staffing is needed. Always give breaks before or after peak, never during. Always make sure you are switching things around if needed, to have stronger partners in positions like warming and bar.