December is usually a time when things start to wind down, but this year feels different. After months of change and transition across the university, many managers are telling us that the pace hasn’t slowed. One manager put it perfectly:

“I’m looking at my to-do list and thinking, there’s only a week left and more than I can possibly achieve.”

So, how do you make sure you can switch off for a festive break without carrying the weight of unfinished tasks into the holidays? Here are some practical tips:

1. Prioritise Ruthlessly

Not everything can be done, and that’s okay. Ask yourself:

• What absolutely must be done before the break?
• What can wait until January?
• What can be dropped altogether?

Use the stop, reduce, pause approach:

• Stop: Legacy tasks that no longer add value.
• Reduce: Scale back where possible.
• Pause: Park non-critical work and projects until the new year.

2. Set Clear Boundaries

Communicate what will and won’t be done before the break with your team and stakeholders. Clarity reduces stress and unrealistic expectations.

3. Block Time for Wrapping Up (a poor attempt at a Christmas related pun!)

Schedule short “wrap-up” sessions for yourself and your team:

• Finish what matters most.
• Agree what’s parked.
• Share priorities for January so everyone feels prepared.

4. Prepare to Switch Off

Before you log off:

• Turn off notifications (including any you might have on your phone from work-related apps)
• Set an out-of-office message that manages expectations and encourage your teams to do the same.
• If you need peace of mind, make a quick January action list and then put it away.

5. Stay Switched Off

Two weeks off is a gift, make the most of it:

• Resist the urge to “just check emails.”
• Role model staying offline. If your team see you online, they will think they should be too.
• Focus on rest, family, and things that recharge you.

And don’t forget, this isn’t just about you, but how you as a leader have a role in enabling your team to switch off too. This article has some great advice.

Remember…

You can’t do everything, and you don’t need to. What matters most is that you and your team return in January refreshed and ready for the year ahead. You will be more productive following a proper break.

If you or your team need more support our staff wellbeing pages are a good place to explore.

Harriet Robb, Learning and Organisational Development