Working in retail has its own struggles of life. Here are a few life lessons I have learned throughout my year and a half of working in a children’s retail store.

1. Mastering the art of the fake smile.

Just keep on smiling and pretend you are actually interested in what the customer actually has to say. Just smile and nod, smile and nod.

2. The Golden Rule:

Just know customers, you are certainly not always right. Please go ahead and tell me how to do my job.

3.  You get asked the stupidest questions.

That just says it all.

4.  One word: Inventory

Staying up all hours of the night counting clothing, accessories, shoes, the works. A significant amount of numbers on your hand that don’t come off. Always fun.

5. You know every song that plays along with the cartoons on tv.

The worst days are when the music is broken. And all you have to listen to are songs from Yo Gabba Gabba and Sid the Science Kid.

6. The response “I’m just looking” gets on your nerves.

“No, I don’t need your help, I’m just going to rip through these pile of shirts you literally just folded.”

7.  Dealing with the annoying customers on the phone.

When customers call just to complain about the difference in sales between online and in store.

8.  You get babysitting experience.

Casually parents expect you to watch their children for them. While the parents go and roam around the store.

9. Casually getting ignored while greeting someone.

Okay, cool. Ignore me. Just know, I will come and bother you until you purchase something.

10. When a swarm of people just decide to rampage the store.

Just as your about to go on break, a ton of people come in and start ambushing you with questions. Worst of all, ruining all those shirts and pants you just folded.

Working in retail has its ups and downs, but you just have to live it day by day and smile and nod. Just smile and nod.