Today was one of the toughest work days I've had in a long time. It was my Saturday on the retail parts counter at work. When I finally got home I was hungry, thirsty, and absolutely beat down. We didn't have time to get a drink of water, much less eat lunch.

It really made something clear. This is an incredibly tough time of year for those who work in customer facing positions.

As you scramble and rush to get those last minute gifts, gather festive trinkets, and prepare everything for that trip to visit family and friends please go easy on the workers you encounter. They have probably been beat down by the holiday rush and are heavily stressed. For many, this is the absolute worst time of year to work and the equally hellish return/exchange season is yet to come.

Before creating a fuss, put yourself in their position for a moment and do your best to get the best outcome for everyone involved.

Use words like please and thank you. Show appreciation for their assistance. It just might make a difference for both of you.