As we edge towards the end of 2025, the annual recurrence of holiday tensions has arrived. December brings year-end deadlines, an abundance of holiday parties, and greater than usual personal commitments.

The result? More stress, more tension, and more anxiety which is creeping into the fabric of many organizations. What to do? Consider these tips to manage through the next few weeks.

Deadline madness. Of course, some year-end deadlines are real, but others are placeholders (“we need to complete this by the end of the year”….not really). Don’t contribute to the stress by adding unnecessary deadlines.

Be selective. You don’t need to do everything. Decide which festivities are the most important to attend and send your regrets to the others. Make sure you go to some that you really want to go to and don’t just feel an obligation.

Mini celebrations. If you’re not going to have a big holiday party, consider a “mini” celebration instead of feeling guilty about not having a big holiday party. Bring in a festive breakfast or order in lunch and take that time to express your appreciation for everyone’s good work during a hectic month of December.

Think first; don’t blurt. During times of stress, many people blurt out the wrong comment at the worst time. Take a few seconds to consider what you’re about to say, then temper it. You don’t want to contribute even more to your staff’s stress.

Quiet time. Make sure you keep up with your meditation, yoga, or other reflective activity. If you don’t do anything like this, start by taking five minutes of uninterrupted time to simply close your eyes and focus on your breathing. You’ll be surprised how refreshed even a few minutes brings you.

These are only a few ideas to get started. Email me some of your personal favorites….of course, when you have time!

“Every time you are tempted to react in the same old way, ask if you want to be a prisoner of the past or a pioneer of the future.”
– Deepak Chopra

Header image by Pavel Danilyuk/Pexels.