Halloween isn’t the only scary thing around the corner…
Each year around this time, we can all feel the shift in energy. The air cools, the leaves begin to change, night begins to creep in at a completely inappropriate time, and there is either an air of release as people give up working for the year OR an increase in stress as businesses try to catch up in annual goals in the final—and also most distracted— months of the year. Either way, as a business leader, this can likely be the most stress-inducing time for you.
“WTF is going on?!” you might catch yourself wondering, as your typical go-to employee fumbles yet ANOTHER task and seems to be less and less reliable.
Depending on your industry, sales may take a dip as well in this quarter as your typical client has less time and be under more stress.
The Holiday Season is coming, and pressure may be rising.
Great leaders lead by example to be the shift for what is going awry. And the inevitability of the season isn’t changing, so let’s get to work on what you CAN change.
But first, let’s identify some of the implications for the humans in your business that tend to add to the heaviness of this time of year (Yes, “humans” includes you!)
- Uncomfortable family dynamics are brought to the surface as togetherness is encouraged with Thanksgiving and Christmas
- On the other hand, many may stress about being able to make time to spend with their families the way they’d like to
- Personal finances (which is often a topic people choose to avoid) and their availability are suddenly very important and front of mind as people scramble to decorate, travel, and shop.
- Decreased daylight not only disrupts natural cycles and routines but also makes it feel as though there’s more to do in less time
- Many experience grief during this season as they mourn the loss of loved ones whom they have celebrated with in the past
- Food habits and body image concerns are highlighted as sugary treats and excessive eating is often traditional practices
- More than 3million Americans begin to experience the symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder, which include difficulty concentrating, loss of interest and energy, and feelings of hopelessness
Now that you can see there are undoubtedly some added tribulations to navigate in Q4, let’s make a plan.
- Take a moment to reflect on some of these challenges that you, your family, your team, and your clients might be experiencing. What intentions can YOU set for this season that will positively impact all of you?
- Remember, that your habits and behaviors are seen as models to those who look up to you, so even by setting personal intentions, you can impact their holiday experience. But if you feel inclined by this information to also set business and team intentions, I encourage that as well!
- Write down your ideas. Writing things down solidify them in your mindset, making them a task list rather than just ideas to MAYBE implement.
I aim to write in my journal in the morning before I check any emails or social media accounts. I have linked my favorite journals and books below.
And if you’re REALLY feeling motivated, feel free to comment and share some of your intentions for some old school accountability! I’d love to cheer you and your business on!
Looking forward to a less-spooky Q4,
Lindsey Paoli, MS MFT
The Mind Performance Coach
If you find these things affecting your holiday spirits, check out the The Rewire Course. Take control of your brain and make it work for YOU, not against YOU!