Office Holiday Overload: How to Juggle Parties, Sick Co-Workers, and Commitments

Juggling deadlines, meetings and conference calls are challenges that face professionals all year long – but throw in the office holiday party, sick co-workers, and personal commitments during the holiday season and maintaining work/life balance can become nearly impossible. 

So how can professionals maintain their job, personal life and sanity this holiday season? 

“The holidays can be an especially busy time for many workers, who are trying to balance business priorities with personal demands. Offices are often less productive during the holiday season than at other times of the year because of company parties, family festivities and other diversions. It can be challenging for employees to strike a balance between personal and work obligations,” says Jennifer Caison, of Acountemps staffing in Laguna Niguel.

According to a survey from Accountemps, 34 percent of hiring managers say their employees are less productive the week before a major holiday.

Provided below are five tips for maintaining work /life balance during the holidays:

1. Establish boundaries. As much as possible, try to separate work time from personal time. Bring projects home only when absolutely necessary.

2.  Prioritize. Develop a list of goals that must be accomplished each day and cross off tasks as they are completed. Also be sure to set aside time for unforeseen events.

3.  Don’t over-commit yourself. Saying “yes” to extra work often is a good career move but if it’s more than you can realistically handle, meet with your supervisor and look for ways to delegate some of your work or postpone non-priority projects.

4.  Seek help. When you’re feeling overwhelmed, work with your boss and colleagues to ease the burden. If you manage others, delegate effectively rather than attempting to do everything yourself.

5.  Embrace down time. Regularly step away from your desk for a lunch break or walk. When your schedule allows, take a vacation to recharge.

6.  Explore your options. Find out if your company offers alternative work arrangements. You may be able to make a case for a compressed schedule, job sharing or telecommuting.