Time off for rejuvenation: Strategies for teams to prevent dissatisfaction, conflict, and tension during holidays
Taking a break? Not so fast for the poor souls left behind! While vacations might mean relaxation for the departing, they often translate to stress and overloads for the ones left. Here are ways to cope during these trying times.
1. Set Clear Boundaries and Prioritize Tasks
Good communication, planning, and organization are your best friends here. Planning your tasks well in advance and prioritizing based on deadlines can help lighten your load. Establishing clear substitute rules that clearly assign responsibilities and promote teamwork can also help. Don't forget to have a daily check-in to share feelings, workload concerns, and discuss priorities.
Being transparent with customers and business partners about potential vacation-related delays can help alleviate pressures on those who stay.
2. Recognition and Laughter: Keep the Spirits High
Open recognition and acknowledgment of the efforts of your colleagues can boost morale and decrease frustration. Flexible working hours, home office options, and expressing appreciation go a long way. Cultivating a positive atmosphere and good team chemistry strengthens resilience during stressful times.
In times of thin staffing, remember that calmness and humor can work wonders. Shared lunches or small acts of kindness can create a warm environment.
3. Take Care of Yourself
While taking care of your workload is crucial, don't forget to care for yourself. Awareness of personal limits and building recovery phases into your daily routine can help you get through difficult phases at work. This can include taking short breaks for mindfulness exercises, going for a walk during lunchtime, maintaining a healthy diet, and ensuring quality sleep.
4. Reach Out: Communicate with Management Effectively
Feeling overwhelmed? Don't bottle it up. Reach out to your manager with open, clear, respectful, and solution-oriented communication. Propose solutions to your concerns to foster a constructive dialogue that promotes both individual relief and team stability.
5. Refocus: Prioritize and Manage Your Demands
When the going gets tough, remind yourself what truly matters. Focus on the tasks at hand and don't forget to create 'Not-To-Do' lists. Don't aim for perfection; realize that things might not run as smoothly as with full attendance. Show courage to fail, let go of unrealistic expectations, and concentrate on what you can achieve.
[1] (Wellness programs often) help employees deal with increased stress, providing resources and support.[2] Clear communication channels allow employees to express concerns and provide feedback.[3] Acknowledgment and appreciation let employees know their hard work is recognized.[4] Cross-training ensures that multiple employees can handle critical tasks, reducing reliance on specific individuals.[5] These strategies (transparency, support, recognition, team building, future planning) can help manage employee frustration and maintain a positive work environment even during periods of thin staffing.
- Incorporate wellness programs that focus on health and wellness, lifestyle, and home-and-garden matter, as they can help employees deal with increased stress, providing resources and support.
- Ensure effective communication channels are in place, allowing employees to express concerns and provide feedback, fostering an environment of openness and understanding.
- Recognize and appreciate your team's efforts, fostering a positive workplace-wellness culture and helping employees feel their hard work is valued, regardless of the number of staff members.
