We have all heard of the horror stories Black Friday brings along every year, and this year I finally encountered what Black Friday really is. While driving back from Jersey late Thursday night, my mom suggested that we swing by Woodbury Commons since it was on the way home. I had to pick up a few things before heading back to school, and I didn’t think twice about the Black Friday commotion that we would encounter at the Commons. What an adventure our night would be, and what a mistake I made to go back to the stores late Friday afternoon.
Here are two major reasons why I will never go shopping on Black Friday ever again.
1. The madness.
Great deals on Black Friday come with some disadvantages. I may have gotten a $120 Vera Bradley Grand Traveler for $40, but getting the bag also brought long lines, crowded streets and stores, and complete madness. Everyone around us was there to get the best deal they could get and they made sure they got it. The madness begins once you step foot on the facilities. First of all, you have to find parking and once you find parking, you have to locate the stores that are open and have the deals. Locating the stores is a bit of an adventure since you have to maneuver your way through crowds of people. Once you locate the store you want, you then have to wait on long lines just to get into the store, and once you get into the store you encounter even more crowds! I think I'll stick to the comforts of my house and online shop next year.
2. The workers.
All I felt while going through different stores was complete sympathy for the workers. It’s Thanksgiving, and it’s a time that people should be spending with family and friends -- not working in a retail store. I know that some people don’t celebrate Thanksgiving, but who would want to come into work and deal with crazy people at such late hours in the evening all for some special deals. I just think it's unfair for business and corporations to open their business and make their workers come in on a holiday just to make some extra money. These workers deal with some hectic situations and people going crazy. I really hope they receive a nice bonus because all of these workers have to be on their A-game to be prepared for anything to happen.
I understand that Black Friday is a time for businesses to prosper, make tons of money, and help the economy grow, but in my eyes, it's just a big waste of time. I honestly believe that because I just don't like shopping.
Rule #1 about Black Friday: Don't go shopping on Black Friday if you don't like shopping.
