The holidays are here—cue the festive lights, endless Christmas music, and, oh yeah, the stress. Between extra shifts, last-minute schedule changes, and dealing with those customers, this season can be a lot when you're working an hourly job.
But don’t worry—there are ways to make it through without losing your sanity. Here’s how you can survive the holiday work hustle and still enjoy the season.
5 Ways to Navigate Workplace Stress During the Holidays
1. Set Boundaries (Yes, Even at Work)
Let’s be real—managers love asking for “just one more shift” this time of year. But if you’re already burnt out, it’s okay to say no. Your time matters.
🔹 Need a day off? Request it early.
🔹 Can’t cover an extra shift? You don’t owe anyone an explanation.
🔹 Boss asking for last-minute favors? A simple “I can’t this time” works.
You’re not a robot. Set limits so you don’t end up exhausted before December even starts.
2. Prioritize What Pays the Bills
Not all tasks at work deserve your full energy. If you’re juggling long shifts and personal holiday plans, focus on what actually matters:
✅ Essential work – Serving customers, stocking shelves, or making sales.
✅ Stuff that can wait – Deep-cleaning under the register again or pointless meetings.
✅ Things that don’t matter – That random group email? Probably not urgent.
Get through your shift efficiently so you can actually enjoy your time off the clock.
3. Forget Perfection—Just Get Through It
Not every shift will go smoothly, and that’s okay. Don’t stress about making things perfect. The holidays are chaotic—no one expects flawless service, but they do expect you to survive the season.
🎄 Messed up a customer’s order? Fix it and move on.
🎄 Didn’t get every task done? Do what you can—tomorrow is another day.
🎄 Coworker drama? Ignore it and focus on your paycheck.
Done is better than perfect. Save your energy for what really counts.
4. Take Breaks (AKA Your Secret Survival Trick)
Working nonstop is a fast track to holiday burnout. Even if you’re in a rush, take your breaks—they exist for a reason.
🧑🎄 Grab a snack or coffee.
📱 Scroll TikTok for a few minutes.
🎧 Listen to your favorite song in the break room.
Even a short reset can help you get through a tough shift. Don’t let the holiday madness turn you into the Grinch.
5. Lean on Your Work Crew
Your coworkers get it—they’re dealing with the same holiday stress. So, instead of struggling alone, team up.
🤝 Swap shifts when needed.
🤝 Split up tasks to make work easier.
🤝 Share a laugh when things get ridiculous.
A little teamwork can make even the busiest shifts way more manageable. Plus, having someone to vent to makes a difference.
Survive the Holiday Rush & Still Enjoy the Season
The holidays don’t have to be all stress and no fun. Set boundaries, pace yourself, and lean on your team when needed. Most importantly—take care of yourself.
And hey, if all else fails, at least there’s holiday pay. 💰🎄
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Photo by Pavel Danilyuk