6 Reasons the Holidays Help Rejuvenate Leaders

As we prepare for the holiday season and the New Year it can feel stressful and overwhelming. It doesn’t matter what holidays we celebrate as we all experience the bustle of getting ready and the anticipation of what our gatherings may bring.

Did I miss anyone on my presents list?

Do I have all the ingredients to make my assigned dish for the dinner?

Am I all caught up on my projects so I can take a few days or even a week away from the job?

Are my travel plans all set? Do I need to purchase any tickets ahead?

Did I finish evaluating my year-end accomplishments and am I ready to start the New Year with a bang?

Even these questions can rattle some leaders and upend their desire to kick back for a few days and enjoy some away time. So instead of looking at the holidays as just one more activity to check off our “to-do list”, let’s reframe our holiday lens. Let’s think of the holidays as a separation from one year to another and see how our family and friends can be the bridge to a New Year.

Six Reasons Holidays Help Rejuvenate Leaders:

1. IT IS A TIME TO CONNECT WITH PEOPLE WE CARE DEEPLY

As we gather around with our family and friends, leaders are reminded of the importance of surrounding themselves with supportive relationships. It’s a two-way street as well because we are the biggest fans for this group too. There may be the occasional friction between some family members but for the most part we are feeling uplifted. We can sense a deep feeling of belonging as we are not being judged by our deliverables. We are accepted for the people we are.

2. IT ALLOWS US TO STEP AWAY FROM OUR DAILY ROUTINES

Leaving our offices and jobs behind to become part of a different world can help recharge our work batteries.

Step away from your desk and projects completely

Try not to talk about work too much

Honor your separation from the work world by being present in the holiday time

Avoid checking emails- they will be there when you return

Breathe in the holiday excitement and treats

3. IT BECKONS OUR SPIRITUAL SIDE

For some of us the holidays evoke our spiritual side and we need to embrace that thinking power. Our spiritual parts do not need to be linked to any religion or religious practices but rather be more about connecting with a higher being or purpose. When leaders let their brains transcend the ordinary they drift and grow.

Related: 5 Year-End Questions For Leaders To Take Stock

4. IT PROVIDES US WITH SPACE TO DREAM

Whenever I have the opportunity to distance myself from my everyday tasks and routines, I find that I am more likely to allow myself to dream. This happens for many leaders during the holidays because we are physically removed from our workplaces and find ourselves in a more relaxed environment.

Reflect on where you might want to travel next

Remind yourself of interests you would like to explore in the coming year

Think about a personal project you have been putting off but now want to pursue with zeal

Decide who you may want to connect with in the New Year

5. IT ENCOURAGES US TO PLAY

At many of our family and friends holiday parties there will be some game playing. Maybe charades. Maybe Pictionary. Maybe football. Whatever it is make sure to participate and laugh. By playing, leaders expand their minds.

6. IT EMPOWERS US TO HIT THE GROUND RUNNING IN THE COMING YEAR

Through connecting with our supportive friends and family, leaving our jobs behind, listening to our spiritual side, dreaming and playing, leaders will be able to re-ignite their energy levels and begin the New Year with new-found optimism and hope. Don’t let the your renewed strength and commitment go to waste. Use it to propel you into an exciting year ahead.