I don't believe that one should need to "get used to" drops. It isn't a matter of breaking yourself in. If you haven't got a good fit, you'll end up breaking yourself ... period.
The problem with most bikes these days is that they come with a threadless headset/steerer. This has its advantages. But, if the steerer is already cut right down, the only way to get the bars to right height -- and for the vast majority of recreational cyclists, this means at saddle height or above -- then you are never going to be comfortable for any distance.
Far too many riders (many who should know better) force themselves to ride in an uncomfortable position, based only on "fitting in" with convention, rather than fitting their own bodies.
Unfortunately, if the shop has cut the fork steerer down to the minimum, or it came from the factory that way, the only option is to install a high-rise stem. Any reputable shop should swap out the original without charge. It is not just a shop's job to sell the bike; it is responsible for making sure it sells you a bike that fits.
I also recommend reading Peter White's fitting tips.
On edit: The hoods are the default possition -- the place you will spend most of your time, if bars are set up properly.