It’s the most wonderful time of the year, isn’t it? However, juggling extra holiday tasks, completing your shopping, and meeting end-of-year goals while managing clients and employees can be overwhelming. It’s enough to make anyone feel stressed. A 2018 study conducted by PR Newswire found that 88% of Americans experience increased stress levels during the holiday season. This holiday stress can affect both you and your team. No matter how many twinkling lights you decorate with, they won’t alleviate the pressure on your employees, but you can! Here are some ideas to help you and your colleagues accomplish your goals while avoiding overwhelming stress.
Managers should proactively address the issue of holiday stress with their employees. This can be as simple as sending an email to check in and remind employees of the importance of managing stress. It’s also helpful to improve communication and organization among teams, especially when staff members are taking time off. Consider holding a group discussion as well. Whatever approach you choose, the goal should be to identify sources of holiday stress and encourage employees to take proactive steps in managing it.
Many employees have children, and the holiday season can add extra obligations to their already busy schedules. Employees may need to take time off to fulfill family responsibilities. To support your staff during this hectic time, consider implementing flexible scheduling. This allows employees to come in early or stay late on certain days to make up for any time they take off.
If your business requires employees to work late on Christmas Eve, consider running a contest to give different employees a chance to either stay or go home. Additionally, if the company can afford it, offering a bonus for those who work during this time can serve as an effective incentive.
The holiday season is a great opportunity to reconnect with clients, former employees, or colleagues you haven’t spoken to in a while. Sending a holiday card or a small gift can remind them of the personal connection you share. This gesture will leave them with positive feelings about you, making it easier to reach out again after the New Year with your pitch.
Regular physical activity has been shown to reduce depression and stress, so consider taking a walk during your workday. You don’t need to walk at Olympic speed; a steady stroll around the office building or outside can still help boost your metabolism, improve your immune system, and lower cortisol levels. Adopting healthy habits can have a significant positive impact both in the short term and the long term.
As the holidays and year-end rush come to a close, expect a lull in activity. Use the extra time available during the first week of January to set new goals and assess your performance over the past year. Take a moment to reflect and practice mindfulness at the start of the year, and encourage your employees to do the same. By the second week of January, everyone will be prepared to embrace the new opportunities the year has to offer.
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