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In the mix: How to deal with working over the holidays

Stressed Out Nurses Weekly, December 8, 2008

by Lawrence Underwood

“It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas…”  Everywhere you go, you are bombarded by the sights and sounds of the holidays. If you’re walking into work, you may see wreaths and holly, and you’re being bombarded by the sounds of Christmas music. This is a time when people seem to get upset a little bit quicker.

If you’re new, this may be your first Christmas where you HAVE to work. Such is life when you’re at the bottom of the totem pole. But, the season does not have to be ruined:

1. Get enough sleep. Especially if you work nights. You may have to turn down some holiday party invitations, but your body will thank you. Explain to friends and family that you may have to come late or reschedule holiday events for times that work for you.
2. Do your shopping whenever you have a day off. ‘Tis better to be done by December 15 than still be shopping online on December 24. Take a few days to shop, wrap in a day, and mail packages as early as you can.
3. Find some way to celebrate the season. You could attend a church production, find somewhere to volunteer, or simply relax at a local ice skating rink with a mug of hot cocoa. Don’t get burned out on the sentiment of the season.

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