How to Bring Holiday Cheer to Virtual Work (Even if You Feel Like a Grinch)

No matter the holidays you celebrate, a lack of general festivities can contribute to the feelings of disengagement and monotony many of us have been struggling with for months. While some may be convinced it’s not the holidays without a secret Santa exchange or someone embarrassing themselves at an office party, we can still look for some joy.

The challenge is, how can we be festive from a distance? Or festive virtually?

I’ve worked from home, at least in part, for two decades. I’m here to tell you: A holiday season is possible, even over Zoom.

Here are four tips for making the next few weeks a little bit cheerier:

1.    Spread gratitude

Nothing will reset your brain like gratitude will. Think about the people who you interact with on a regular basis. How can you express gratitude to them? Just a quick email can work wonders on your brain! The bonus of the exercise is that they will almost always return the favor, sharing that they appreciate you. Who wouldn’t want to wake up to a feel-good inbox?

Here’s a great list of 40 (!) other ways to practice gratitude.

2.    Decorate your office (wherever it is, these days).

Whether your desk is your dining room table or you’re working from your bathroom to avoid distance-learning troubleshooting, a little bit of cheer can go a long way. Try a holiday scented candle, some fresh greens, or propping up a few holiday cards your friends send you. It doesn’t have to be elaborate, just a little something to remind you of the season.

(At the risk of losing 40% of my followers, I’ll share with you, I put my decorations up 3 weeks before Thanksgiving).

3.    Do good in your community

Volunteering can help combat depression, anxiety, and the rinse-and-repeat feeling that can come with remote work. Many organizations have allotted hours for community service, some of which are likely unused due to COVID restrictions. Check out virtual volunteer or socially distant options near you.

You can volunteer solo, or you can volunteer as a team, with something like adopting a family in need for Christmas. 

4.    Instead of asking about plans, ask what people are looking forward to

Traditional “plans” are likely either up in the air or flat-out canceled. Asking what everyone has planned can lead to a sad conversation for many people. Instead, try asking your coworkers or customers what they are looking forward to over the holidays.

Asking what someone is looking forward to points their brain towards the positives. Plus, you may get some good ideas for your own holiday celebrations!

While this holiday season will likely be different from years past, I hope you each find moments of peace and joy.