Automatic Out-Of-Office Reply

Don’t worry about any important emails coming in – nothing is more important than taking a break and thoroughly enjoying the holidays right now. Everything else can wait until after Christmas. Put together a seasonal, automatic out-of-office reply on your email and social media platforms and you can rest assured your clients will respect your need for a break too. If it really is a matter of urgency, they will know to reach you via phone.

Allow for a Two-Day Weaning Period

It’s funny, but sometimes we actually end up putting pressure on ourselves to relax by somehow convincing ourselves that, come five o’clock on the Friday before Christmas, we’ll automatically switch to holiday-mode. This is rarely the case. Instead of beating yourself up about it, recognize it to be true and allow yourself a two-day weaning period. Get any work-related stuff that may still be gnawing at you out of your mind and then let it go.

Plan Day Trips with Friends & Family

The further away you get from work and yes, even your home, the less likely the chance you’ll be thinking about work or household chores, or that stupid hedge that needs clipping. Plan nice outings with friends and family and you’ll see work will be the furthest from your mind.

Bend the Rules

Now, now – we’re not suggesting you let things get out of hand at this year’s office party, but there’s nothing wrong with indulging a little. Have a glass of wine or three, a second helping of malva pudding and spend an entire day in your pajamas watching your favorite holiday movies with your girlfriends or the kids. Allow yourself the little luxuries you scrimp on during the rest of the year!