The holiday season often brings a mix of joy and stress. Between social gatherings, gift shopping, and year-end work demands, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. In fact, 53% of people say they experience more stress during the holiday period, with one in five employees stating their wellbeing declines during this time. Instead of letting the season’s demands weigh you down, try these five practical tips to manage holiday overwhelm while staying present and intentional.
1. Align Your Focus with Work Deadlines
For many, the holiday season coincides with year-end deadlines at work, adding an extra layer of pressure. Tackling these priorities head-on can reduce stress and set you up for a smooth start in the new year.
- Organise Your Workload: Review outstanding tasks and identify critical deadlines. Break larger projects into smaller, actionable steps that can be tackled daily or weekly.
- Communicate Early: If you’re juggling multiple responsibilities, update colleagues or stakeholders on your progress. Clear communication prevents misunderstandings and allows for realistic expectations.
- Block Time for Deep Work: Reserve specific times in your calendar for focused, uninterrupted work to complete high-priority tasks efficiently.
2. Set Boundaries and Learn to Say No
Overcommitting is a common cause of holiday overwhelm. Saying “yes” to every event or task can stretch your time and energy too thin.
- Protect Your Time: One helpful technique that you can use to help you determine whether you commit or say no, is to use the ‘Battery Check’. Reflect and consider whether the upcoming event or activity will recharge or drain your “battery.” You can even use a quick scale to measure, for example: -5 (draining) to +5 (recharging).
- Leave Work at Work: If you’re balancing year-end deadlines, ensure you set clear boundaries for when work stops and personal time begins. Try using your commute home to decompress. Listen to music or a podcast or simply take a few moments of silence to clear your mind
3. Practice Mindfulness and Gratitude
Mindfulness can help you stay present and manage stress more effectively. Incorporate simple practices into your daily routine:
- Start Your Day Mindfully: Spend five minutes in deep breathing or meditation before diving into your to-do list.
- Pause for Gratitude: Reflect on what you’re thankful for during moments of overwhelm. Gratitude shifts your focus to positive aspects of life, fostering resilience. Try writing down three things you are grateful for in the moment, one person you are grateful for or one thing you are grateful for that has happened in the past.
Studies confirm that mindfulness reduces cortisol levels and improves emotional wellbeing, making it an excellent tool for navigating the holiday rush.
4. Build Strong Social Connections
The holiday season can amplify feelings of connection and celebration, but for some, it’s a time of increased loneliness. Whether due to distance from loved ones, or personal challenges, these feelings can contribute to stress.
- Foster Meaningful Connections: Reach out to family, friends, or colleagues you haven’t spoken to in a while. A quick phone call or coffee catch-up can make a difference.
- Look for Community: Join holiday events or community groups to meet others. Volunteering is also a great way to connect with people while giving back.
By making time for connection, you not only combat loneliness but also build a supportive network that can help you navigate challenges.
5. Make Time for Rest and Recharge
Rest is essential for maintaining physical and mental health, yet it’s often neglected during the holidays.
- Book Your Leave Early: If you can, plan your time off in advance to ensure you can take a meaningful break. Use this time to relax, reflect, and recharge.
- Stick to a Sleep Routine: Even during busy periods, aim to maintain a consistent sleep schedule. Aim for at least 7 hours of unbroken sleep each night and try and go to bed at wake at the same time each day. Limit caffeine to 6 hours before bed and alcohol 3 hours before bed.
- Incorporate Breaks: Take short, restorative breaks throughout your day. A quick walk, a moment of silence, or even five minutes of stretching can rejuvenate your energy.
By aligning your work focus, setting boundaries, practicing mindfulness, fostering strong social connections, and prioritising rest, you can create a holiday season that’s fulfilling rather than overwhelming. These tips will help you focus on what matters most, ensuring the season is as joyful and meaningful as it’s meant to be.
