The holiday season can be a time of joy and celebration, but for many, it can also be challenging. Whether it’s navigating personal stress, financial strain, or just the pressure of expectations, the holidays are often not as “merry and bright” as the ads make them seem. In the workplace, this time of year can amplify these difficulties, so it’s important to recognize some of the myths surrounding the holidays that might affect how we interact with colleagues.
Here are some of the most common assumptions about the holidays and suggestions for how we can support one another at work during this time.
The Holidays Are Always “The Most Wonderful Time of the Year”
Reality: For some, the holiday season is filled with stress, loneliness, grief, or anxiety. Not everyone has family nearby, not everyone can afford to tavel, and not everyone feels the pressure to “have fun” in the ways that holiday culture suggests. For some, the holidays are a reminder of loss, or they bring up complicated family dynamics.
How to Support Each Other:
Encourage openness and be understanding when coworkers are not in the festive spirit.
Respect personal boundaries — not everyone wants to participate in holiday parties or Secret Santa exchanges.
Offer support if someone seems down. A simple “Are you okay?” or “Is there anything I can do to help?” can go a long way.
Everyone Celebrates the Same Holidays
Reality: The holidays are often assumed to be universally celebrated, but not everyone observes the same religious, cultural, or familial traditions. Christmas, for example, is a major holiday in many parts of the world, but it’s not celebrated by everyone, and even those who do celebrate it may have different practices or preferences.
How to Support Each Other:
Be mindful of inclusivity in your workplace celebrations. Consider using terms like “holiday season” rather than assuming everyone celebrates Christmas.
Create space for people to share how they celebrate, without pressuring them to conform to the mainstream holiday culture.
If your workplace holds holiday parties or events, try to plan activities that are neutral or inclusive, keeping in mind that not everyone may be able to attend or feel comfortable participating.
People Should be in a Good Mood During the Holidays
Reality: While the holidays are often associated with happiness and cheer, the pressure to be cheerful can lead to burnout or feelings of inadequacy. Many people feel overwhelmed by the demands of the season — whether it’s work deadlines, family obligations, or financial concerns. For some, the holidays are a reminder of things they may feel they are missing, like loved ones or work-life balance.
How to Support Each Other:
Be empathetic if a colleague seems stressed or less energetic. Rather than brushing it off as a “holiday slump,” ask if they need help with work or if they just want someone to listen.
Offer flexibility where possible. This could mean adjusting deadlines, allowing for more breaks, or giving people the freedom to take time off if they need it.
Remember that just because it’s the holiday season doesn’t mean everyone feels cheerful. Let people express their feelings without judgment.
Everyone Loves Holiday Gift-Giving
Reality: Gift-giving can add stress to people’s lives, especially if finances are tight or if someone is going through a personal struggle. Some people may feel uncomfortable with the pressure to give or receive gifts, especially in a workplace setting where professional boundaries can be complicated.
How to Support Each Other:
Make gift exchanges optional and ensure there’s no pressure to participate.
Consider alternatives to traditional gifts, such as contributing to a charity in someone’s name or organizing a workplace-wide event that focuses on well-being instead of material gifts.
If you do plan a gift exchange, set a modest spending limit to avoid putting strain on colleagues.
Everyone Is Celebrating Family-Oriented Traditions
Reality: For many people, family isn’t a source of joy during the holidays. Some may be estranged from their families, have lost family members, or experience tension with relatives. For others, the holiday season may be a reminder of the absence of family or other important support systems.
How to Support Each Other:
Be sensitive to people who may not have family to celebrate with. Offer a friendly invitation to join in any workplace gatherings, without assuming that they’ll want to come.
Acknowledge that family isn’t always a source of happiness, and don’t force or pressure colleagues to share personal details if they’re not comfortable.
Offer to help in small ways — even a kind message or checking in with someone who might be spending the holidays alone can show that you care.
People Are on the Same Holiday Schedule
Reality: Not everyone has the same time off during the holidays. Some people may have to work through the season, especially in essential industries, while others may take extended time off. Additionally, some employees might work during the holidays by choice to earn extra money or fulfill job responsibilities.
How to Support Each Other:
Be flexible and considerate when scheduling meetings or deadlines. If someone has a different time off, try to accommodate their schedule.
If someone is working over the holidays, offer words of appreciation or small gestures to acknowledge their hard work.
Keep communication lines open and check in with colleagues who may be working remotely or outside regular office hours.
Final Thoughts: Creating a Supportive Workplace During the Holidays
The holiday season can be both a joyful and difficult time for many people. By recognizing these myths and fostering a more compassionate, flexible, and inclusive work environment, we can help our colleagues navigate the season with less pressure and more support.
Let’s remember that the holidays are not one-size-fits-all — and that sometimes, offering understanding, kindness, and a listening ear is the best gift we can give each other during this time of year.