"People are happier at Yuletime because they take the milk of human kindness out of the deep freeze." - Arnold Glasow
No one would dispute that this has been an extremely difficult year filled with much anxiety. However, there is generally no happier time at the office than during the holiday season. Maybe it's because vacation time is coming soon for most employees, or maybe it's because everyone loves the holiday parties. Whatever the reason, you'll experience a kinder, gentler co-worker in the next cubicle. Arnold Glasow made a vivid statement that we defrost the milk of human kindness during this time of year. Although this is true for most of your employees some of them will experience stress associated with the holidays. Stress no matter what the reason will always decrease productivity. And as many companies are trying to end the year strong, you can not afford to have lethargic employees. Therefore, finding ways to keep your employees in a good mood is very important.
The holiday season is a good time to lighten things up at the office which can help to alleviate some stress for your employees and boost productivity. Here are a few ideas to bring some cheer to the office:
1. Allow your employees to decorate their cubicles which will bring some fun to the office.
2. Relax the dress code or promote holiday dress which can be great for lifting spirits.
3. If this is a slow time of year for your company, allow your employees to go own alternative work hours or use flex time.
4. Hold a lunch buffet during the week or allow employees to hold a pot-luck.
5. Allow family to attend the company holiday celebration.
These ideas and any you can think of yourself will be a great addition to help stressed employees. If with all you do, you find that someone is still exhibiting stress behavior. Keep in mind that some individuals could be experiencing Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), which is a medical condition associated with stress and sadness during the holidays. However, for the most part, your employees will experience stress related to any of the following:
1. Trying to complete projects before vacation time
2. Hosting visiting relatives before the holidays
3. Trying to holiday shop and manage budgets
4. Disappointments of not being able to have a carefree holiday due to 2009’s economic crisis
Keeping and promoting a cheery attitude will spread improved morale throughout your office. This can be a great time for you and your employees to have fun, bond, and prepare for the New Year. Having fun in the office now may carry over to positive attitudes next year. Starting off the New Year on a high note may result in better customer service and increased profit margins. Enjoy your holiday with your employees.
Angela Huffmon, is a Professional National Speaker, Corporate Trainer, and Author. If you would like to book Angela Huffmon to for your next conference, or meeting event send an email to angelah@shuffent.com. 
