Stress-Free Holidays for Busy People

What do holidays have to do with productivity? Glad you asked! Consider physical exercise for a moment: Science has long understood that you don't build muscle during the workout, muscle builds during rest–that's why working out too long or too often is counterproductive to fitness. When it comes to work, the same principle holds true: Attempting to sustain 24/7 productivity leads to fatigue, lowered immunity to illness, lack of ideas (or just plain bad ones), and time-wasting. The holidays present an opportunity to set work aside, but they can also be stressful in their own way. So here are a few ideas that can help you get more from your holiday breaks: Focus on your Top Three. Think of three things you love about the holidays, write them down, and forget everything else. Be it lighting the Hanukkah menorah, cuddling under the mistletoe, decorating your Christmas tree, listening to holiday music, or just driving around the neighborhood to see the pretty lights–your focused intention matters when it comes to enjoying experiences. Sock your smartphone. Remember the days when phones were tethered to the base unit and you couldn't check your Facebook newsfeed? Aside from risking technology addiction, turning off your phone and putting it out of reach will help refocus attention on visiting with family and friends and, believe it or not, increase the fun! Take me for a walk. Bundle up and trundle out for a walk, by yourself or with the whole group! A change in scenery can alleviate that "cabin fever" feeling you get with extra people in the house. Plus, a little exercise clears your head and fills your body with those delightful endorphins, making you feel great! Don't get SAD. Sometimes, lack of enjoyment during the holiday season stems from physiological reactions to reduced daylight during winter months. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is caused by a lack of light coming through the eyes. It is easily relieved, however, by gradually increasing your exposure to natural and full spectrum light sources. Try spending 15-30 minutes a day in sunlight, and replace overhead fluorescent light bulbs with "full spectrum" bulbs. Give a little bit. The last few years haven't been easy for many people. Donating your time or talent to make the holidays special for someone in need is one of the few gifts you can give to someone else and yourself at the same time. I hope you enjoy a wonderful holiday season ahead with your friends and family. I know that I certainly have much to be thankful for, including many wonderful colleagues, clients and friends like you.