5 steps for coping with the New Years slump
Published January 3, 2014 12:18 PM
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Updated January 3, 2014 3:13 PM
1 Min Read
Whether its financial concerns, work demands, seasonal depression or just the natural reaction to the stress of the holiday frenzy this trend creates productivity and performance issues for employers across the country. Dr. Jeff Rubin is a practicing psychologist and vice president of behavioral operations with Accolade. Here are his five recommendations for employers who want to minimize the effects of the New Years slump in 2014.
1. Lose the holiday hoopla.
Festive holiday decorations and cards can serve as unwelcome reminders of the often-busy, sometimes stressful days that have passed and the mountain of work that awaits employees. Its similar to the feeling one gets the morning after a big party, when the mess is still there to clean up. Remember too, that the holiday season is generally filled with high expectations to impress family, to cook a flawless meal, to buy the perfect gift and more often than not, people are unable to attain these lofty goals. Employees can bring those feelings of unmet expectations back to work with them in January.
2. Remember: Rest is a renewable, but easily expendable, resource.
Even if employees had a relaxing break, studies show this reserve drains quickly once they face the work ahead of them. Give them time for re-entry. A few hours in the morning to catch up on emails will help folks settle back in. Blocking out some meeting-free time will allow employees time to clean out files and get organized thus giving them a fresh start.
3. Name the norm.
Label irritability and poor concentration as predictable reactions when employees return to work after the holidays. Having a boss who listens, understands and sees when stress exists can provide an immediate dose of relief. When employees understand that anxiety and letdown after the holidays are normal and acceptable, theyll be better able to cope with these emotions.
4. Emphasize milestones on the way to the finish line.
With a new year beginning, many employers immediately turn to the next cycle of performance goals and kickoff meetings, which can exacerbate employee anxiety as they think about the high hurdles and long stretch ahead until the next holiday season. Give them some time to ease back to work and set realistic, near-term milestones that will provide a sense of accomplishment while moving them closer to their ultimate goals.
5. Create a trail of tools.
The new year is a time for resolutions, but sometimes employee goals for losing weight, exercising more and taking better care of their health can be overly ambitious. Its a good time to remind your employees about the many resources your company makes available to support healthy lifestyle changes, such as personal health assistants, health and wellness programs, employee assistance programs, gym reimbursements and on-site clinics.
