Is it just me, or is the end of the year tough? So many times, we hit a point in the fourth quarter where we feel we’ll limp across the finish line. Ending not with a bang but a whimper. If you’re like me, you really can’t stand that feeling. We want to finish strong!
But if you are feeling this way, take heart. End-of-year burnout is a common challenge as we juggle wrapping up projects, setting next year’s goals, and managing personal holiday commitments. The good news? Because it’s common, there are plenty of proven strategies to pull from to mitigate and avoid those year-end woes.
7 Strategies for Dealing with End-of-Year Burnout
Strategy #1 – Prioritize and Delegate Strategically
Identify Critical Tasks – Focus on what must be finished by year’s end. Don’t let others clutter your focus – you only have so much time and energy. Categorize other tasks for follow-up in the new year. Sorting out timelines and action steps will help you prioritize.
Empower Team Members – Delegate, delegate, delegate! You don’t have to do it all. Allow capable team members to take ownership of specific projects. This reduces your load and benefits the whole team.
Strategy #2 – Set Boundaries on Working Hours
Define “Shut-off” Times – Establish firm boundaries for when work stops each day, and stick to them. Try to avoid overextending yourself by working late. Rest is just as important as work. If you find yourself drifting into “work mode” after hours, take extra steps. Have your spouse hold you accountable. Silence work notifications or temporarily disable apps.
Encourage the Team to Do the Same – Lead by example. Remind your team of the importance of breaks and healthy boundaries to help them avoid burnout, too.
Strategy #3 – Schedule Time for Reflection and Resetting Goals
Reflect on Wins and Lessons Learned – Review the year’s accomplishments and challenges. Acknowledging progress, however small, can be highly energizing. It also helps you start the new year with clarity and purpose.
Start Goal Setting Early – Discuss next year’s goals in early November (right now!), allowing for a more thoughtful planning process. Waiting until the eleventh hour is just asking for extra stress and frustration!
Strategy #4 – Practice Active Self-care
Prioritize Physical Health – Regular exercise, nutritious food, and adequate sleep can help maintain energy and focus. I get it – if there’s any time to “slack off” in these areas, it’s the holiday season. I know I sometimes feel the want to hibernate like a bear. But remember – everything in moderation. You can enjoy the holidays without dropping healthy habits.
Incorporate Mindfulness and Breaks – Simple practices like breathing exercises, meditation, or even a quick walk outside can lower stress levels. By now, you should know what activities help clear your mind. Make a point to do them, even if you’re tired, busy, or reluctant.
Strategy #5 – Celebrate Small Wins & Encourage Team Appreciation
Acknowledge Milestones – Take time to recognize team and personal achievements. Celebrations don’t have to be extravagant or meticulously planned. What matters is that the gesture is genuine, regardless of the celebration’s size.
Show Appreciation to Others – Expressing gratitude toward your team can boost morale and foster a positive atmosphere. These things can help push your team through the holiday stress and strain to finish strong. That appreciation can be small gifts, a team lunch, or other small tokens of your gratitude. Even if you don’t physically give something, give kind words of recognition.
Strategy #6 – Schedule a Personal Reset Post-Holiday
Plan for Downtime – Sometimes, it feels like we need a holiday to recover from the holidays. Even if it’s just a weekend, plan a break after the holiday season to recharge before tackling the new year. Knowing a rest period is on the horizon can keep you from feeling overwhelmed.
Strategy #7 – Avoid Overcommitting to the Holidays
Practice Saying “No” – Let me free you from one of the season’s pressures: you don’t have to do everything. You don’t need to pack your schedule with “holiday fun” if that fun is more stressful than celebratory. You can say no to parties, hosting, or going out. It’s okay, I promise.
Burnout is far too common, especially among professionals and business leaders. But it’s not inevitable. When you approach the season with focus and intention, you can avoid a lot of the things that burn the candle at both ends!
What are your strategies for staying sane during the holiday season? Share in the comments.