How To Handle Black Friday: Military-Style

Probably the biggest shopping day in these United States…Black Friday. Do you dare venture out? Before you put on the riot gear, it’s best to have a tactical plan, Soldier.

• Review circulars: identify only the sales/coupons/early bird deals that pertain to you and your family. (the 70% off lawnmower does not benefit the apartment dweller)
• Create a List: The must haves (priority), the nice-to-haves (if the opportunity arises)
• Develop a schedule: allow time for transit, breaks, and potential lines
• Only the strong survive: whiny kids, A.D.D. husband, slow-moving relatives STAY BACK.
• Choose your battle buddy wisely: look for stamina, endurance, and strength, and possibly a large vehicle to store your items
• Stay focused, distractions lead to failure
• Analyze your tactical gear- is your purse going to hinder anything? Are those boots too slippery? Do you need a belt to keep those britches held up?
• Identify base camp once you’re in the store if you’re planning to split up
• Communication on and distinguishable at all times: If that means annoying ringtone, then annoying ring tone it is
• Set up Exit Strategy: setting up station (aka parking) close allows for convenience when entering but doesn’t it provide for easy exit?

Before you head out there, always remember…

TCB- Take care of business:

…well… take care of YOUR business BEFORE you leave the house, public bathrooms are a hot mess if you know what I mean.