Vacation Time: Surviving When Colleagues Jet Off
Time for a break: Strategies for team harmony and stress relief during holidays
Time to bid adieu to the office for some much-needed vacation time! For those left behind, it's not all sunshine and relaxation - they often find themselves overwhelmed with added responsibilities and mounting stress. Here's how to beat the blues when the team takes off.
1. Organize and Prioritize
Vacation plans are usually set well ahead of time, offering an opportunity to assess the workload and prioritize tasks. Teresa Stockmeyer, a consultant for team development in Hamburg, recommends the following steps:
- Setting Deadlines: Which tasks require immediate attention? What can wait?
- Task Division: Can responsibilities be shared?
- Clear Roles: Establish fixed substitute rules outlining each team member's role and responsibilities.
Remember to hold daily check-ins to discuss workloads and priorities. Communicate any concerns to customers and partners about potential delays, as it alleviates pressure and fosters understanding.
2. Show Gratitude and Foster Team Spirit
Acknowledging the efforts of team members who stay behind is key to reducing frustration. Fabian Krapf, Managing Partner at IFBG, suggests:
- Recognition: Openly recognize the hard work of team members during stressful times.
- Flexibility: Offer flexible working hours, home office options, or shared gratitude sessions to promote a stress-free work environment.
- Good Vibes: A sense of humor and casual interactions can go a long way in boosting team spirit.
Remember, if team members view covering vacations as a shared responsibility rather than an added burden, it strengthens the team dynamic and reduces tensions.
3. Take Care of Yourself
During challenging work phases, self-care is crucial:
- Mindfulness: Incorporate brief mindfulness exercises into your daily routine to manage stress.
- Healthy Habits: Ensure you're eating well and getting enough sleep.
These steps may sound simple, but they often fall by the wayside when workloads are heavy.
4. Speak Up and Communicate
If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, don't hesitate to discuss your concerns with your manager. Fabian Krapf emphasizes:
- Clear Communication: Express your concerns concretely and propose solutions for relief.
- Positive Approach: Present your needs positively to create a solid foundation for productive discussions.
The goal is a constructive dialogue that benefits both the individual and the team.
5. Manage Your Expectations
When multiple vacations pile up, it's essential to refocus and prioritize:
- Self-Assessment: Regularly evaluate tasks, determining their priority.
- To-Do/Not-Do Lists: Write down what you won't do, allowing you to focus on priority tasks.
Remember, not everything can run smoothly with a diminished team, so be realistic in your expectations.
By following these tips, you can make the best of a busy work environment and keep frustration at bay. Enjoy your colleagues' vacations without losing your calm!
- Embracing the science of workplace wellness, practice mindfulness and prioritize healthy habits during challenging work phases to maintain a balanced lifestyle.
- Transform home and garden into a sanctuary for self-care; create a peaceful environment that encourages relaxation and stress relief.
- Seek out health-and-wellness resources that focus on stress management and work-life balance to ensure your overall well-being remains a priority even during demanding times at the workplace.
