How to unplug from work this holiday season.

The Christmas season is meant to be a time of joy, relaxation, and connection. But for many of us, it can also be a time of stress - especially if you're running your own business or balancing a busy work schedule with family commitments. The question is - how do you truly switch off from work during the holidays, when your mind seems to be constantly racing with to-do lists and deadlines?

The good news is that it is definitely possible to have a mental, physical and emotional break from work, so that you can fully enjoy the festive season. Here’s how we're planning to unplug this year, and how you can too!

Set an out-of-office reply

This is the first step in creating clear boundaries between work and personal time. Setting an out-of-office reply on your email is a simple but effective way to let people know you're taking time off. When clients or colleagues see that you're not available, they'll know not to expect an immediate response, giving you the space to recharge without the pressure of checking in.

Pro tip: Include a return date in your out-of-office message, so people know when to expect you back, and offer an alternative contact in case of urgent matters.

Schedule 'me time'

We often prioritize work over self care, but it’s important to carve out time for activities that recharge your mental and physical batteries.

Whether it’s a quiet walk in nature, reading a book, or enjoying a festive drink - make time for what fills you up. Plan activities that help you relax and be present. This could be meditation, journaling, or even taking a nap (yes, naps are essential!).

By prioritising "me time," you’re allowing yourself the mental space to step away from the constant demands of work.

Turn off notifications

Let’s be honest: it’s hard to really switch off when your phone is buzzing with work emails, social media updates, and Slack messages. This year, why not commit to turning off all work-related notifications during your break? That means no checking emails, no responding to urgent texts, and definitely no logging into the company Slack.

If you can, put your phone on do not disturb mode, or simply put it away in a drawer so you can focus on the people and experiences around you.

Pro tip: If you need to be reachable for emergencies, let your clients and/or team know beforehand so they don’t feel abandoned, but be clear about when you’ll be available and when you’ll be offline.

Create holiday traditions

The holidays are all about tradition, so why not create new ones that help you unwind? Whether it’s baking cookies, watching Christmas movies, going ice skating, or visiting holiday markets, immerse yourself in the magic of the season.

Doing these activities gives you a sense of joy, and they allow you to switch your mind off from work and focus on something that brings you pure happiness. You can even get creative with traditions - maybe start a new family game night or organise a virtual holiday gathering with friends. The key is to embrace the festivities and truly immerse yourself in the holiday spirit.

Let go of work guilt

As business owners and entrepreneurs, it’s common to feel guilty when we take time off. But here’s the truth - rest is just as important to your success as hard work. If you don’t give yourself the chance to recharge, you risk burnout and creativity blocks. The holidays are a reminder that it’s okay to step away and take a break.

This year, we're choosing to let go of the guilt and allow ourselves to rest without the constant pressure of “what’s next.” Remember, your business will still be there when you return - and you’ll come back with fresh energy and new ideas.

Final thoughts: embrace the holidays and recharge

The holiday season is an opportunity to slow down and focus on what matters most - family, friends, and your own wellbeing. By setting boundaries, scheduling self-care, and creating new traditions, you can fully enjoy the holidays without the mental tug-of-war between work and relaxation.

As we all know, the holiday season can be busy, but it’s essential to make time for yourself - your mind and body will thank you for it. This year, we're making it our mission to really unplug and give ourselves permission to be present with loved ones and enjoy the magic of the season.

How do you switch off from work during the holidays?