While the holiday shopping season got off to a strong start on Black Friday, I think sales are going to be dismal for most retailers this holiday season. I had to do some last minute shopping at the mall yesterday and dreaded the mobs of shoppers I would have had to elbow and fight through. But ’tis the season, so I drove out to my closest mall and to my surprise, immediately found a parking spot next to the entrance. Once inside, there were barely any lines and prices for most items were heavily discounted. No hostile crowds, no crazy bargain shoppers, no screaming kids, huge sales! With the worsening recession and freezing cold weather across the country I assume most retailers will be missing their Q4 numbers this year. Sucks for business, good for me I guess. Maybe everyone is shopping online these days, who knows.
The world may not be perfect and the economy may be in the tank, but most people I met at the mall and on the streets were festive and in good spirits. As I wrap my presents for friends and family, I am thankful for the people in my life and the many opportunities out there to give back to the world. Life is short, and everyone should live life to the fullest. Here is a wonderful article on business school’s continual focus on using business to change societies at whatever stage in life: Starting Over, With a Second Career Goal of Changing Society
Happy Holidays! Eat, drink, and be merry.
Read the full article: Happy Holidays!