The holiday season is a time filled with joy, celebration, and time with loved ones — but it can also bring a lot of holiday anxiety and stress. Between wrapping up work projects, coordinating holiday plans, and trying to fit in personal time, employees can feel stretched thin. That’s where support from HR teams and managers can make all the difference.
Offering stress management tips and resources to your team shows how much you genuinely care about their well-being, not just during work hours but in every aspect of their lives. By sharing some simple strategies to handle holiday stress, you can uplift their spirits, enhance focus, and remind everyone that they have your support. A little bit of guidance can make a big difference in helping everyone find their balance and stay energized throughout the season!
So, here are some easy, practical tips you can share with your team. These strategies will help them take care of themselves, manage stress, and make the most of this special time of year.
Why Managing Holiday Stress Matters
Managing stress effectively can have a big impact on both personal and professional life. During the festive season, people often feel pressured to meet work deadlines while keeping up with the extra demands of family gatherings, holiday preparation, and travel. This can lead to increased stress, burnout, and even illness. When employees feel overwhelmed, it affects their productivity, engagement, and overall happiness.
The statistics make it clear: U.S. adults are feeling both joyous and overwhelmed during the holidays. Nearly nine in 10 (89%) report feeling stressed due to concerns like holiday spending, missing loved ones, and potential family conflicts, according to a poll by the American Psychological Association.
While almost half of adults (49%) describe their holiday stress as "moderate," around two in five (41%) say their stress noticeably increases during the holiday season compared to other times of the year. What’s more, 43% say that holiday stress interferes with their ability to truly enjoy the season, and 36% even feel like the holidays have become a competition.
HR teams and managers can help employees manage stress during the holiday season by offering practical stress management tips. This support fosters a positive workplace culture where employees feel valued and cared for, particularly during busy and chaotic times.
Stay Calm and Celebrate: 6 Simple Holiday Stress Tips
Let’s explore some simple, helpful tips that can make this holiday season a little smoother and a lot more enjoyable. These strategies are easy to incorporate into daily life, and they can make a big difference in helping employees feel relaxed, focused, and ready to enjoy the best parts of the season. Here are six easy tips to help everyone stay calm and enjoy the holiday season:
Take a Deep Breath
One of the simplest ways to ease stress is through breathing. When things feel a bit too much, try this easy exercise:
- Breathe in slowly through your nose for a count of four.
- Hold your breath for a count of four.
- Breathe out slowly through your mouth for a count of four.
Repeat this a few times, and you’ll feel calmer and more in control. It’s a quick, quiet way to ease your mind—perfect for any time you need a little breather!
Plan Ahead and Set Small Goals
Holiday planning can feel like a juggling act, so try to make things easier on yourself by setting small, manageable goals. For example, if you’re buying gifts, try making a list in advance and tackle one or two items at a time. Set a schedule that spreads out holiday tasks — like cooking, shopping, or cleaning — over several days. This way, everything gets done without the last-minute stress and holiday blues.
Make Time for “You Time”
Even with a busy calendar of holiday events, take some time just for you. Whether it’s enjoying a quiet cup of coffee in the morning or taking a short walk between meetings, these small breaks are essential for your well-being. Doing something you enjoy, even for just 10 minutes, can help combat seasonal affective disorder and keep your energy up.
Related: 15 Holiday Self-Care Tips: A Bucket List for Your Well-Being
Be Kind to Yourself
The holidays don’t have to be perfect. It’s okay to set healthy boundaries with commitments and say no when needed. Focus on the moments that matter most, and be gentle with yourself if things don’t go as planned. Remember, it’s not about a perfect holiday but enjoying the time you have.
Reach Out for Support
If you’re feeling extra stressed, it’s okay to ask for help. Many workplaces offer resources for mental health support, such as counseling or employee assistance programs to help manage chronic stress. You could also talk to friends, family members, or co-workers who understand what you’re going through. Sharing your feelings can make a big difference and remind you that you’re not alone.
Try to Move a Little Each Day
Even a short walk or a few stretches can help with stress relief and improve your sleep. Staying active during the holiday season can also reduce social anxiety when attending social gatherings. Physical activity boosts your mood, helps you sleep better, and gives you extra energy. Find a time that works for you — maybe a quick walk during lunch or a stretch before bed — and make it a part of your day.
Remember, You’ve Got This!
The holidays come with their own set of challenges, but you’ve got the tools to handle them. Take it one step at a time, be kind to yourself, and embrace the holiday cheer. You deserve a peaceful and joyful holiday, and with these simple tips, you’re well on your way.
Take care, breathe deep, and enjoy the holiday magic!
