The festive season is a time of celebration, but it can also bring added pressures. From increased workloads, balancing personal commitments, additional financial pressures, it’s easy to feel like you’re juggling too much. With a bit of planning and some holiday cheer, you can manage festive stress and create a supportive environment for yourself and your team.
Here are some tips to help you make it through the holiday season with calm, focus, and a sprinkle of seasonal spirit.
- He’s Making a List (and Checking It Twice)—You Should Too!
Just like Santa, staying organised is key to getting through the busy holiday period. Make a list of tasks and check it twice to identify what’s truly a priority. Break larger projects into smaller, manageable steps and schedule specific times to tackle each one. Use tools like calendars or apps to stay on track and avoid last-minute surprises. With a clear plan, you’ll feel less like you’re in a festive frenzy and more like you’re in control of your time.
- Unwrap the Gift of Focus
To get through your to-do list faster, try turning off email and social media notifications while you work on critical tasks. Dedicating focused blocks of time allows you to power through your work without distractions. Think of it as “silent night” time—peaceful, focused, and productive. Once the task is complete, you can reward yourself by catching up on emails or taking a well-earned break.
- All I Want for Christmas Is a Break!
The holidays can be a whirlwind, so don’t forget to take regular breaks. A short walk, a festive playlist, or even just stepping away from your desk for five minutes can help you recharge and refocus. If possible, extend lunch breaks or offer early finishes during December to give employees a chance to unwind. A little extra time to enjoy the season can go a long way in boosting morale and reducing stress.
- Deck the Workload, Not Just the Halls
When the tasks are piling up, remember that you don’t have to do it all yourself. Delegate where possible and encourage your team to share the load. Just like trimming the tree, everyone working together can make big tasks more manageable and enjoyable. If you’re a manager, check in with your team to ensure no one is overwhelmed, and be flexible with deadlines to ease the pressure.
- Flex Your Festive Spirit
The holiday season can be unpredictable, so build some flexibility into your schedule. Whether it’s a last-minute meeting or unexpected delays, being adaptable helps you handle the twists and turns of the season. Think of it as adding extra wrapping paper—you’ll be ready to cover anything that comes up! Encourage your team to take the same approach, reminding them that it’s okay to adjust their plans when needed.
- Avoid Festive Fatigue
The excitement of the season can be draining, with late nights, social events, and end-of-year demands taking their toll. Encourage your team to pace themselves and recognise the signs of burnout. Offer flexibility with start and finish times or allow work-from-home days where possible. And remember, even Santa takes a break after his big night!
- Celebrate Everyone Around the Tree
Not everyone celebrates Christmas, and that’s okay. Create an inclusive environment by recognising diverse traditions and respecting individual choices. Plan neutral team activities, offer flexible holiday time, and avoid making assumptions about how people spend their holidays. A workplace that values everyone’s unique perspectives makes the season more enjoyable for all.
- Let It Go (and Log Off)
Encourage your team to fully disconnect when their work is done, especially when they’re off for the holidays. Turning off emails and stepping away from work allows people to truly recharge. Set an example by “logging off” yourself, and remind your team that it’s okay to let go of work-related worries and focus on spending quality time with family and friends.
Have Yourself a Calm and Productive Festive Season
The festive season doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By staying organised, prioritising tasks, and encouraging balance, you can help your team thrive while enjoying the magic of the season. Remember to take time to rest, stay flexible, and spread a little cheer—because at the end of the day, the best gift you can give yourself and others is a stress-free holiday season.
