The Gift of Wellbeing: How Leaders Can Transform the Holiday Season for Their Teams

??The holiday season is magical—but let’s be real, it’s also one of the most stressful times of the year. Between year-end deadlines, family obligations, and financial pressures, Silent Night can feel like a distant dream.

As leaders, this is a golden opportunity to lead with intention and foster a culture of wellbeing—not just for your team, but for yourself, too. Let’s unwrap the why, the stats that demand attention, and actionable steps to sleigh (pun intended!) the season with compassion, humor, and purpose.

?Why Wellbeing During the Holidays Is a Leadership Priority

According to Gallup, nearly 41% of employees experience increased stress during the holidays, with 55% reporting their workplace doesn’t adequately support mental health. It’s not just your team feeling the pinch—78% of leaders report burnout, according to SHRM.

As Brené Brown reminds us, “You cannot give what you do not have.” If you’re not modeling wellbeing, it’s hard to expect your team to prioritize theirs.

My Leadership Story As the CEO of a large counseling center, I vividly recall how the holidays brought both busyness and burnout for my team and me. We gave our all to serve clients in need, but it became clear that we needed a true break to recharge. So, we created a “Rest and Rejuvenate” initiative, shutting down the office completely between Christmas and New Year’s. We provided resources for our clients to ensure they were supported while enabling staff to fully unplug. That intentional pause became a game-changer for morale, energy, and productivity.

The Stats That Demand Attention

1. Stress Peaks in December: Almost 94% of employees report workplace stress year-round, but it spikes in Q4. (Gallup)
2. Burnout Is Real: 37% of employees cite burnout as their #1 challenge during the holidays. (American Psychological Association)
3. Financial Worries Dominate: 58% of workers say holiday expenses are a top stressor. (SHRM)
4. Work-Life Balance Tanks: Only 36% of employees feel they have adequate time for family and friends in December. (Deloitte)

How to Sleigh Holiday Wellbeing

Here are five actionable steps, sprinkled with wisdom from the world’s top wellbeing experts:

1. Model the Behavior You Want to See

"If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader." – John Quincy Adams Take time off, unplug from work emails during family time, and openly share how you’re prioritizing your health. By doing so, you signal to your team that it’s not only okay to step back—it’s essential.

2. Add Flexible Work Options to Your Holiday Wish List

Harvard Business Review highlights that flexibility is one of the most valued workplace perks during high-stress periods. Whether it’s remote work, altered hours, or compressed workweeks, let your team know flexibility is a gift, not a liability.

3. Celebrate Inclusivity

Acknowledge all holiday traditions. Allow your team members to share what holidays mean the most to them, and include their traditions. As SHRM advises, “Cultural inclusivity reduces workplace stress and fosters belonging.” Host celebrations that are fun, respectful, and inclusive for all.

4. Encourage Small Breaks and Big Laughs

Research from Gallup shows that frequent breaks can increase productivity by 30%. Encourage moments of levity with team activities like ugly sweater contests, trivia sessions, or quick virtual coffee chats.

5. Gift the Ultimate Present—Mental Health Support

Offer resources like counseling, Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), or dedicated mental health days. As Brené Brown reminds us, “Daring leaders work to make sure people can be themselves and feel safe at work.”

Wrapping It Up (With a Bow) ??

When you invest in wellbeing, you’re not just spreading holiday cheer—you’re creating a thriving, productive team that feels valued and supported. After all, the best gift you can give as a leader is the gift of a workplace where everyone can truly thrive—yourself included.

This quote by Nelson Mandela sums up the challenge- finding the freedom to work well, rest well and play well takes an ongoing effort. "I have walked that long road to freedom. I have tried not to falter; I have made missteps along the way. But I have discovered the secret that after climbing a great hill, one only finds that there are many more hills to climb. I have taken a moment here to rest, to steal a view of the glorious vista that surrounds me, to look back on the distance I have come. But I can only rest for a moment, for with freedom comes responsibilities, and I dare not linger, for my long walk is not ended." – Nelson Mandela

So, knowing and accepting this journey, not a destination in a one time solution, what’s your first step? Share in the comments below how you’re prioritizing wellbeing this holiday season. Let’s inspire each other to create workplaces that embody care and joy this season and beyond.