As the years go by, the tradition of Black Friday shopping keeps being pushed earlier, and earlier onto Thanksgiving dinner. But for those who enjoy the traditional grueling, midnight shopping experience, you are far too familiar with the original excitement of it… followed by some regretful splurges, and all in all, the hopeful satisfaction at the end of it all.

As the evening (early morning) unfolds, the typical shopper endures several stages in which they encompass the stereotypical “Black Friday shopper” emotional phases. Yes, this is a day dedicated to shopping, but a better way to describe it is a holiday themed version of The Hunger Games. And the victors are those who snag the greatest deals by the end of the day, with the least amount of damage done on the credit card. Without further ado, I present to you the emotional timeline of the average Black Friday shopper:

The optimistic Black Friday shopper

List in hand and a game plan in mind, after an evening of good company and even better food, what could possibly go wrong? Let the fun begin!

Reality sets in...

You realize you are standing in a mass of highly emotional individuals who are ready to pull out any and all stops get the latest iPhone, or limited edition lotion set from Bath and Body Works. It’s after midnight and this point there is not turning back. On your mark, get set, shop away!

The caffeine savage Black Friday shopper

After riding high the first hour, you hit a wall. MUST FIND NEAREST COFFEE SHOP. ESPRESSO IS NEEDED FOR SURVIVAL.

The emotionally unattached Black Friday shopper

With a Starbucks latte coursing through your veins, you are unstoppable. At this point you aren’t looking at people as humans, instead they are simply just obstacles standing between you and the BOGO jean deal at Gap.

The “jackpot!” I’ve totally got this Black Friday shopper

You’ve snagged the last pair of plush slipper at Brookstone! Score! You’re on shoppers high and nothing can get in your way. Even a gaggle of freshman girls taking over Victoria Secret can’t get you down.

The sleepwalker Black Friday shopper

As the caffeine buzz begins wear off, your day begins to catch-up with you and you realize you need to get out of the mall ASAP before you resort to sleeping in a clothing carousel.

The “life is complete” I can rest satisfied Black Friday shopper

You’ve somehow made it to your bed, where you reflect on your purchases and can’t help but get giddy about them! The thought of loved ones, friends and lets face it yourself opening these gifts on Christmas day, or what ever holiday you see fit, can’t help but leave you with the greatest feeling of satisfaction.

So while Thanksgiving may bring out the best in people, and Black Friday the worst, have no fear. You still have twenty-seven days to rid your name from the naughty list. May the odds be ever in your favor.