Holidays at Work

With the holidays just around the corner, I can already feel everyone’s (including my own) stress levels rising. To make the most wonderful time of the year even more enjoyable, try these tips for surviving the holiday season while at work.

Plan time off well ahead of time. Don’t wait until the last minute to ask for time off. Talk with your family and coworkers to find out how much time and when they would like to take off so you can work your way towards a compromise you’re all happy with. The holidays are a busy time for many businesses and sometimes there needs to be all hands on deck. You don’t want a stressed out your boss or co-workers – that only adds to your own stress!

Let your clients and co-workers know your schedule. If everyone knows when you’re going to be gone, they won’t try to contact you with work-related issues and questions. Plus, you should never assume that everyone celebrates the same way and at the time as you.

Go easy on the decorations. Your office doesn’t need to look like the North Pole; leave the musical dancing snowman, smelly candles, and potpourri at home. I have reduced my stash down to one box full of the most meaningful ornaments, tree trimmings, and decorations. The holidays are a festive time, but your eye has to stay on the prize – work and customer service.

Party! The annual holiday work party is the one work event you should never skip. It’s a work function, so be punctual, happy, and professional. Also, make sure you take time to make the rounds, especially if you have a guest to introduce!

Keep gift giving small. If you decide to give coworkers gifts, keep them small and low cost. Or, if possible, do something for the entire department! It won’t bother anyone if they know those cookies came from a bakery instead of your oven.

Organize something for others. Does a local charity organize a gift, food or clothing drive for disadvantaged families? This is always a winner – who doesn’t have fun buying toys and needed items for a family?! Put a donation box in your office and it creates a ton of good cheer for everyone. Plus, it is an easy way to get involved in the community! It also makes your office look good to customers who visit.

Keep snacking to a minimum. Candy does not equal holiday cheer, so don’t sabotage your own health goals. It’s ok to indulge during this time of year, but try not to go overboard. You’re going to be surrounded by delicious treats and food everywhere, but stay strong! You’ll feel so much better once the new year comes around.

Don’t stop moving. Shorter days take their toll on everyone’s energy. Throw in bad weather, increased traffic, as well as a sense of needing to get everything done before your time off and the levy could sap even the Energizer Bunny. One way to get energized at the office is by exercising. Skip the elevator and use the stairs, park in the last row in the parking lot, or even go for a walk outside each day at lunch. Even though it seems like exercising will drain your energy, you’ll be surprised at how much it improves your mood and gives you tons of spirit!

Give thanks. Did you know that being grateful increases your happiness and motivation? Take a few minutes each day to write down different things you’re thankful for.

The holidays can be a fun and joyous time, even when you are working. Stay calm and focus on what needs to be done at the office while you’re working, so you can relax both there and when you are away. Just sayin’.

Published: New Mexico Apartment News Magazine – November/December issue 2016