It’s essential to encourage your team to prioritise their mental health and take a well-deserved break this Christmas. Here’s how you can support your workforce to relax, reset, and start the new year refreshed:
- Encourage Taking a Break:
Remind your team that rest is vital, not just for their wellbeing but also for their productivity. Taking time off allows staff to return to work with a renewed energy and focus. - Reinforce Boundaries:
Holiday leave should mean switching off. Encourage staff to avoid picking up emails or checking work messages during their time off. Setting clear expectations can make employees feel supported and reduce the temptation to stay connected. - Suggest Festive Mindfulness Practices:
Mindfulness doesn’t need to be complicated. Simple practices like taking a quiet moment to reflect, going for a walk outdoors, or practising gratitude for small wins can make a big difference in managing holiday stress. - Prioritise Time for Genuine Rest:
Remind employees to plan their time off carefully, ensuring they include slower days to truly relax. It’s important to have moments where they’re not rushing between commitments, allowing them to rest and recharge fully. - Reduce the “First Day Back” Stress:
Returning to work after the holidays can feel overwhelming. Encourage staff to ease into their workload by setting realistic goals for their first few days back. Create a supportive environment by allowing space for them to catch up before diving into new projects. - Lead by Example:
As a leader, your actions set the tone. Show your team that you value their wellbeing by taking a break yourself and unplugging from work during your time off.
By prioritising rest and mindfulness, you’ll foster a happier, healthier team ready to take on 2025 with renewed energy and enthusiasm.
For more tips on fostering a culture of health and wellbeing in your workplace, explore our Rise Workplace Wellbeing e-learning programme.