The Importance of Resisting Work During the Holidays
As the holiday season approaches, pushing through and working is tempting, especially when deadlines loom and client requests continue to pour in. However, it’s crucial to remember that taking a break during this time is not just a luxury—it’s necessary for our well-being and our relationships. Here’s why it’s important to resist working through the holidays and how to prepare your clients and yourself for this well-deserved downtime.
The Value of Taking Time Off
The holidays are a special time for rejuvenation and making memories with loved ones. They offer a rare opportunity to unwind, reflect on the year’s accomplishments, and recharge for the new year. However, many people experience heightened emotions and stress due to personal expectations and family dynamics. Stepping away from work can help you maintain your emotional and mental health during this potentially hectic season.
Setting Client Expectations
As a business owner who has navigated the holiday season for decades, I’ve learned the importance of setting clear expectations with clients early on. Informing clients about your availability during the holidays should be done well in advance. I take two weeks off from open office hours during the end-of-year holidays. This early notification helps clients plan for my absence and respects their holiday schedules.
Let your clients know you won’t be starting new projects or launching websites during this period; you are still reachable for emergencies. Ensure that all maintenance requests and non-urgent matters must wait until your return. This helps set boundaries and allows you to step away from daily business demands truly.
Communicating Your Schedule
Communication is key. A month before the holidays, I email all my clients to remind them of my upcoming schedule. I include the exact dates of my absence and the scope of work that will be affected. I also provide a reminder a week before the holidays as a courtesy, ensuring that everyone is well-prepared and there are no last-minute surprises.
Handling Emergencies
While it’s important to disconnect, we also need to be realistic about our business’s needs. Specify what qualifies as an emergency and how clients can reach you if one arises. This might include server downtime or security breaches—issues that genuinely cannot wait. Defining what constitutes an emergency, you help prevent unnecessary interruptions during your holiday break.
Using Downtime Effectively
Taking time off sometimes means doing something. This period is crucial for catching up on administrative tasks like bookkeeping and strategic planning for my business. It’s a great time to reflect on the past year’s business performance and set goals for the coming year. This kind of work often requires uninterrupted thought, something that’s hard to come by during the regular hustle of the year.
Encouraging Balance
Think about creating holiday memories with your family and friends and stepping away from screen time. Whether baking cookies, decorating your home, or enjoying outdoor activities, immerse yourself fully in these experiences. The work will always be there when you return, but these special moments come only once a year.
Tips for a Smooth Holiday Season
- Plan Ahead: Complete all urgent projects before the holiday season begins.
- Set Autoresponders: Email autoresponders to remind people you are on holiday break.
- Delegate or Automate: Delegate or automate tasks that can be handled by someone or something else while you are away.
- Secure Your Systems: Before you go on break, ensure all client websites and systems are secure and updated to prevent potential emergencies. Don’t skip your weekly updates if you manage a care plan business.
Give Yourself the Gift of Time Off
The holidays are a time for gratitude, celebration, and renewal. As much as our businesses are important, it’s essential to remember that our well-being and relationships are priceless. By planning ahead and communicating clearly with clients, you can enjoy a peaceful and joyful holiday season without the stress of work hanging over you. So, this holiday season, give yourself the gift of time—time to relax, to enjoy loved ones, and to rejuvenate for a successful new year.
