With Christmas just around the corner, it’s time to start unwinding and reflecting on your successes from 2024. In this blog, we share our top five tips for switching off from work so you can enjoy the festivities and give your mind a well-deserved break.
1.Plan ahead
If possible, do as much as you can in advance so you don’t have to constantly check your emails over the break or worse, have a pile of tasks waiting for you on the first day back in January. Equally, you must take time to plan your schedule over the Christmas holidays too. Whether that be watching The Grinch for the 100th time, or going ice skating with your family, make sure your calendar is full to the brim with activities that help you unwind!
2. Know your boundaries
Don’t be afraid to say ‘no’ to certain commitments before Christmas if your schedule is already chock-a-block. Instead, suggest reconvening in the New Year when everyone is refreshed and ready to work.
3. Spend time with friends and family
If you’re lucky, most of your friends and family will be back in town over the holidays, so don’t take this time for granted. Close that laptop and go be merry!
4. Stop working
We mean it - don’t be tempted to peep at those emails during your annual leave unless it’s really necessary. If your role requires you to be responsive over the festive period then be strict about it (i.e. allocate 20 minutes every morning to reply to people and then log off). Sign out of any accounts you don’t need to worry about and be clear with clients when you will be out of the office and therefore unable to take calls.
5. Go outside
It may sound silly, but as full-time workers, we often have very little time in nature. Why is this important? Well, spending time outside can help boost our mental health and reduce stress. So while you have the opportunity turn your screens off and enjoy the crisp air by taking a walk with loved ones or head down to the beach with a hot chocolate!
Here at Pillar Partnership, we know having a healthy work-life balance is crucial to the mental well-being of our candidates. Whether you celebrate Christmas or not, take some time this December to enjoy yourself and relax ahead of the New Year.
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