How to Tune Out and Enjoy Your Holidays

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If there’s one thing that high-performing sales professionals struggle with, it’s slowing down to enjoy the holidays.

The ongoing pursuit of new prospects, new deals and new business doesn’t end until December 25th, and for some it starts up again on December 27th!

So how can you wind down and take time to enjoy the holidays after such a busy few weeks (or months!) leading up to the holidays?

Shawn’s 5 Tips to Wind Down for the Holidays

1. Increase personal time as you approach the holidays.

Selling this time of year can mean you’re operating at full speed. Purposefully slow yourself down as you approach the holidays, adding in some personal time to your calendar. It may be having lunch with an old friend or your spouse, minimizing the days you work late, or simply taking a full lunch break outside the office.?

2. Add an extra vacation day before you start holidays (if possible).

If you have any vacation time or banked time available, add an extra day in your calendar before the holidays. This can allow you a day to catch up on things you haven’t gotten to and allow you to transition into holiday mode.

For example, this year (and every year), I typically take December 22nd off, allowing me to finish up any shopping and take some time for myself.?

3. Slow down your pace, taking more time to speak with others.

When you are speaking with prospects or customers, take some time to ask them what they are doing over the holidays. Share what you’re most looking forward to, and enjoy the conversation. It can help you get into the “holiday mood.”

4. Reduce any after-hours work as you approach the holidays.

If you typically work late or after hours, begin minimizing this time. Shut your phone off in the evening or try to leave work on time. Minimizing your working hours will force you to focus on doing what’s most important, while taking more time for yourself to shift to holiday mode.

5. Do something that puts you in a holiday spirit.

Whatever you celebrate this time of year, add something into your calendar that gets you in the spirit. Maybe you want to purchase a peppermint mocha from Starbucks instead of your regular Americano. Simple little changes to your routine can help put you in a festive spirit.

It’s important you don’t give up on selling at this time of year, as there are still plenty of opportunities to close.

However, if you do find it difficult to wind down over the holidays, try introducing these tips to help you slow down and find joy in what the season can bring.

Best, Shawn

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