Traditionally, each of us handles the end of year holidays in different ways, and it's always with less time and more money spent. Completing yet another year of economic uncertainty and, for many, hard times, is bringing even more stress than usual. Most of my AppleOne staffing offices tell me that, although many of the people we are working with in their job searches do share bleak stories of fear, being alone and being broke... many also say that they are living vicariously on the hustle and bustle of the malls and the festive store windows. Some are turning their radio dials to the All Holiday music stations and are stocking up on table games, versus the more expensive computer game cards. Many are enjoying the festive environments of our offices and investing more time in their computer skills enhancements, while others are requesting to retake tests in order to score higher and put their best foot forward in the new year. For many, it's working, literally!
What I recommend is, whether you thrive on the hustle and bustle and plan to spend money and time on shopping, or whether you just want to hide away 'til 2011 is upon us, step back and ask yourself this question: Will I allow my work (or search for it), added to the holidays, to equal stress for me? Or, will I take several deep breaths and manage the stress of this season, dividing out time to evaluate my work plan, and then enjoy the holiday within that perspective?
Remember that companies across the country have already made their big cuts in jobs, healthcare, bonuses and holiday parties. While employment won't jump quickly, there is little room left for many of these companies to lay off more people, so your work plan should certainly be in gear now. However, make the holiday about more than work for you. If you are blessed with family and friends near, accept the joy of their presence and make it clear to everyone what your gifting situation is. You'll be surprised by how happy many will be as they are facing the same consideration.
My family has decided to give the gift of our service to each other, with coupons for babysitting, grocery shopping (inserting coupons in the homemade gift cards) and other chores. We are also recycling....That sweater that Aunt Trish loved! me in last month....It's been cleaned and boxed with my rhinestone star pin. She's gonna love it! Do the same with your close ones. This is especially great for the females who enjoy swapping goods! It can work for the males in your family, too. Recycle those tools, sports goods, etc. They'll look as good as new in sparkly gift wrapping and presented with your sincere, and non stressed, smile!!!
If you are alone, witnessing the festivities of others can have an opposite effect on you, and cause emotional strain. Instead of staying in your own sadness, step forward and bring joy to others. Volunteer at food banks, schools and pre-schools and religious outreach programs (all of which are on reduced budgets, just like you). Homeless shelters will enjoy the old things you're holding on to, even more than you would enjoy the new thing that you won't be buying yourself! They don't even want you to wrap it! Over my life and career, I have learned that giving forward is the very best way to combat emotional lows and holiday blues.
My encouragement to you is my Five Point Plan to stay on top of your fun and work during the holidays.
1. Keep your perspective. You get the most results from where you apply your attention. Schedule your time carefully so things get done, and commit to simplicity. Too much multi-tasking can end up costing you money and time, rather than getting things accomplished. If you need to online shop or take care of personal matters during work hours, eat lunch at your desk and do it on your own time. Leave the office chats and holiday parties earlier and use the time wisely.
2. Leave personal stress out of the workspace and leave workspace stress out of your personal space. If you are overwhelmed with family obligations and tensions at home, leave them there. Remember that your co-workers have their own stresses, and encourage their treatment of you by the example you set.
3. Make lists... simple ones with timelines, and dollar signs where appropriate, and stick to them! Put your smallest, and/or easiest, tasks at the top so they can be checked off quickly. Don't keep adding. Setting limits now will ensure you won't be left catching up after the holiday season is spent!
4. Let yourself shine! At work, go the extra mile to help out during a time when many slack off. This is the perfect time to show your boss that you can shine under pressure, as many employers have their own exacerbated stress levels with worry about their company's future. Gift them your full support and dedication. It will bring joy and return to you both.
5. Make the holiday a family affair. Don't be afraid to delegate. Rely on family, friends and even neighbors to help you shoulder some of the responsibility. It may seem easier to do it yourself, but you'll be surprised at how happy people are when they know that you appreciate their help. Let the kiddies in on it, too! Even if no one can do it as well as you, a little less perfection can bring a lot more enjoyment.
Know this: The sum of how much you enjoy this holiday season depends upon how you add up the situations you face, and how you divide the work involved to make this a joyous season. 2010 is almost gone, so don't lose yourself to it. After all, the true meaning of 'Holidays' is "Holy Days". However you celebrate, plan to bring and receive as much joy as you can. Love your family and friends as best you can, and remember that no matter what you don't have this holiday, there are so many people with so much less. The love you already have is the most valuable gift you will ever receive.
Happy Holidays and God bless! Janice
Loading comments… 
