The festive season is well and truly upon us – whether you’re still getting your last few bits or you’ve got your feet up watching a movie. Our Christmas break is never as long as we hope for and going back to work after the holidays can often feel like an unwelcome jolt back into reality.

Christmastime can be hectic, manic, and chaotic and it may not actually feel like a break, but there are ways you can max out on the festive period and truly make it the most of this wonderful time of the year.

We have come up with 6 tips on how to make the most out of the festive season so you can feel refreshed when you get back to work.

1. Keep an organised diary or a to-do list

It may sound silly to keep a schedule during your time off, especially when you’ve finally escaped your work timetable, but it will really help you make the most of your break. 

Maybe you usually keep a mental list of everything you need to do and any plans you’ve made with friends, but it helps to have a written list or calendar (even if it’s on your phone) to see the big picture – and so you don’t double book during this super busy time.

We would also recommend that you jot down some me-time into your diary as well because it is so important to have a few slots in your calendar where you just have time for yourself!

2. Stay active throughout your holiday

Keeping active is easier said than done when staying home in a warm house with good food is so tempting, or if you’re busy travelling around seeing friends and family and attending all the yearly Christmas parties.

It can be hard to remember how important exercising really is. 82% of workers feel exhausted when they return to work if they’ve had a lazy holiday and find it difficult to get back into the swing of things, but this statistic is halved if they remain active throughout the holiday.

So, although you may think you’re ‘recharging your batteries’ by chilling out all day, actually by exercising (even if it’s just as little as 15 minutes a day) can significantly improve not only how you’ll feel once you return to the office, but how you’ll feel throughout the holiday.

3. Declutter before Christmas day

You don’t want your house to be a cluttered mess with new gifts piled on top of old ones. If you have kids, finding a place for all their new toys and games that they receive at Christmas may seem rather daunting.

So, we suggest that you get rid of the clutter before Christmas day arrives while you have a little bit more time than usual.

Rather than throwing away all of your unwanted things, sell or donate them instead, or even wrap some of it up for gag gift exchanges. You’ll feel loads better knowing you’ve done something productive over the holidays!

4. Prioritise your time

Remember, you can’t be everywhere at the same time. You can only attend so many family dinners, so many Christmas parties and drive so far to visit your friends and relatives.

Although you should do as much as you can, do be aware that just like your money, you have limits with your time. Making the most of spending time with family whilst relaxing and being kind to yourself will help ensure you truly have a break.

5. Plan for your return to work

You may not want to think about your return to work at the start, or even before, your Christmas break, but being prepared for your return will help you seamlessly transition back into your usual routine.

If you have been a little lax with your morning routines and have enjoyed too many lazy lie-ins, give yourself a few days to kick back into gear and wake up bright and early. The night before your return to the office, pack your bag, lay out your clothes and go to bed an hour earlier – this will help you to feel nice and refreshed upon your return.

Ensure your holidays are refreshing by making the most of the festive season! Let us know what your plans are for Christmas this year by contacting us on Facebook or Instagram.