In recent weeks, we’ve offered plenty of advice for finding work during the holidays…but a lot of our candidates want to know what to do once they’ve landed that gig. The question, “What can I do to stay sane during a high-tension, busy holiday season?” is a common one this time of year.
No matter your place of business — whether you’re working in retail, warehousing and logistics, customer service, food and bev or even in a regular office — the final weeks of the year can present a challenge for your happiness and stress levels.
Here’s a look at seven strategies that may help you take the edge off and stay positive throughout your busiest work days this season:
Lean On Fellow Workers
There’s strength in numbers! Cultivate a “we’re all in this together” spirit among your coworkers and find little ways to enjoy one another throughout your work day.
They say laughter is the best medicine, and coming together with fellow employees to laugh about the craziness of the season may be your saving grace while working hard through the holidays. And that after-work unwinding session — whether over a warm coffee or a tall cold one — is always much nicer with friends.
Spread Cheer
Particularly if you’re in a managerial position, why not spread a little holiday cheer within your workplace if things start to feel a little bleak around the office? That might mean putting together a special incentive (with prizes!) to reward enhanced productivity or meeting a higher sales goal, or it might be as simple as stopping by your favorite local bakery and grabbing a big box of doughnut holes for the gang. Create a unique workplace celebration for your coworkers and yourself.
Take Advantage Of Breaks
For so many reasons, working through the holidays can be especially taxing. That’s why it’s more important than ever to take advantage of every break you’re given and really relax during that 15- or 30-minute time period.
It’s much easier to stay focused and rise to the strenuous demands of working during the busy season when you have a few opportunities for rejuvenation throughout the day.
Prioritize Your Health
The mall food court or fast-food chain down the street may sing a siren song when your lunch break comes, but those types of food can take a toll on energy levels and focus. Pack yourself a healthy, hearty lunch and drink plenty of water during especially busy times for sustained energy and a more positive attitude, too.
Treat Yourself
It’s especially important to take care of yourself when work is stressful. If you’re on your feet all day, maybe a relaxing pedicure is a perfect treat after a crazy Saturday on the floor.
If you get an employee discount through work, save up that extra money from your time-and-a-half holiday pay and buy yourself an item you’ve been coveting on the shelves.
Maybe all it takes to keep the spring in your step is spending a few moments before work mentally spending your holiday bonus. Whatever you choose to do, remember that you deserve it!
Dealing With A Scrooge? Don’t Take It Personally
You know how stressful your own job is this time of year — remember that the holiday season can really take a toll on those you interact with, too. If you encounter someone who isn’t exactly bubbling over with the holiday spirit, maintain perspective: it most likely isn’t about you!
Grin and bear it if a customer seems impatient or even snaps at you; you never know what’s going on in their life.
Remember this quote, attributed to Ian Maclaren, that perfectly sums up the spirit of the season: “Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle.”
Make Someone’s Day: Go Above & Beyond
The unfortunate truth is that many workers during the holidays are simply phoning it in — punching their time cards and doing the bare minimum to get through the day.
The holidays are a tough time for a lot of people — for a lot of different reasons — and a small gesture of kindness toward them could make a world of difference (even if you never know it).
A bonus to going above and beyond for customers: Not only does it feel good, but your efforts likely won’t go unnoticed around the office. You could even ring in the new year with a bonus or promotion!
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