Wednesday, November 24, 2010

Tips for Surviving Black Friday, Small Business Saturday and Cyber Monday

I went to Target yesterday afternoon and was surrounded by the madness of the holiday. It was only a glimpse of what will happen this Friday. Here are a few tips to keep your sanity and your pocketbook in check. Being in the retail industry, I am appreciative of the Kohls and Targets for starting their shopping season immediately after Halloween and others even before that. It gives people the opportunity to plan their holiday season without overspending. Black Friday can be tricky and with proper preparation, you will survive and maybe even thrive. 

Survival Tips

1) Drink lots of water and bring a water bottle with you. The heat will be cranking, you will be running around and you don't want death breath. Bring at least a liter with you.

2) Plan your attack. Get organized by doing your research and finding out what deals are where and a back up plan in the event the item is sold out by the time you get there.

3) If it is a hot item and you HAVE to have it, buy it ahead of time. Who says that you have to wait for Black Friday. Is it worth saving $20 when you have to see the disappointment on your kids face because it sold out? No. Go online and pre-order.

4) Bring snacks so you avoid eating fast food and other high calorie foods. Pack a peanut butter and honey sandwich, almonds and an apple. They don't need refrigeration and travel easily. The protein from the  nuts will sustain your energy and the sugar from the fruit and honey will give you the immediate energy.

It is easy to get caught up in the moment and buy things just because they are on sale or because someone else wants it and you don't want to be left out. It is also easy to eat fast food for three days straight. Be smart, plan ahead and be kind. Remember that the person next to you is someones mommy, sister, love and friend. Go easy and be nice. Start the holiday season off right with extra kindness.

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