As many of you know, I am working two part-time retail jobs right now in addition to the work I have building my business. I worked my first official non-training shift at Anthropologie yesterday and I’m working 9 hours today. My feet hate me and I think I have the back of a 98-year-old. Ibuprofen is my best friend.

Well, working retail in the mall on Black Friday got me thinking and brainstorming about some things that we should all keep in mind over the holidays. These are generic and are in no particular rank or order:

1. Be nice to people who are working. If you have ever worked retail or in a restaurant, you know how stressful it can be. Those people who are working during the holidays are under a lot of stress. You don’t know the circumstances they could be under. Have a little patience and show respect – and I promise, 9 times out of 10, they’ll show you the same courtesy.

2. Don’t be gluttonous. Sure, it’s cliche to say “it’s better to give than receive” – but at this time of year and with the state of the economy that we are in, it’s truer than ever. Even if you can’t afford to buy gifts and donate them, go through your closet, get rid of that sweater you never wear, and donate it to someone who might need it.

3. Cherish the time you have with your family. We tend take our families for granted. This year, take a minute to thank them for supporting you through the tough times and the good times in your life. Now, when I say “family” I of course include blood relatives, but blood doesn’t make family. You know who your family is.

4. Take time to relax. I don’t know why the holidays seem to be such a stressful time for people. I always hear people talk about how stressed they are with traveling, shopping, time, etc… Just remember to step back, take a deep breath, and relax a little bit. It won’t kill you. I promise.

5. Cash for gold is a scam. No amount of money is worth mailing off grandma’s precious jewels. I’m just saying.

What do you think? Do you have any rules of thumb for the holidays? Any you’d like to add? You’re awesome.

Word.