I have just hit 5 months at Starbucks, and when we are slow my shift will usually let me take a green bean on bar and do a little practice with them because I am a pretty welcoming and inviting person so I can help train while keeping it “casual”. This happened yesterday, while another green bean (B) was on window and we were all having learning moments, like I explained macchiatos get one less pump to my green bean (A) and the greenie on window chimes in with “oh yeah I totally forgot about that! Good reminder!” And we were just absolutely vibing. While I’m watching A swirl her milk to attempt a little latte heart, B says “ [my name] you know you’re the best person to train with, you’re so nice” 🥺🥺🥺 and I was about to CRY because I know how important it is to feel heard and understood when you’re trying to learn something new.

And THEN, later while I was on bar alone, my new SM came up to talk to me, and I was pretty nervous at first, but she just said “hey [my name]! I just had a conversation with a gentleman in the lobby and he said you are always really sweet to him and he looks forward to seeing you every time he comes” and I wish I could make a bigger 🥺🥺🥺 face but I just felt so validated because I genuinely do my best to make people feel comfortable around me, I love to make people laugh, and I love my job. I know it sounds stupid but days like yesterday are why I really can forget about the Karen’s for a sec.