The Holidays, Year-End Burnout, and How Leaders Can Reset for 2025
The end of the year is upon us. For many, the holiday season is a time of joy, family gatherings, and celebration. But for employees across the corporate world, it’s also the season of burnout. Deadlines loom, expectations skyrocket, and the elusive balance between personal well-being and professional demands becomes more challenging.
As we wrap up 2024 and look ahead to 2025, it’s time to acknowledge this reality and take actionable steps—both as individuals and as leaders—to reset, recharge, and lead inclusively.
Understanding Year-End Burnout
Year-end burnout isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a real phenomenon. A recent Gallup survey found that nearly 76% of employees experience burnout at least sometimes, with year-end pressures amplifying the issue. Employees juggle final quarter targets, performance reviews, holiday planning, and personal responsibilities. For some, the holidays aren’t a reprieve but a source of stress, especially for those navigating financial pressures, grief, or cultural obligations.
This is a crucial moment for leaders to reflect on the systems and culture in place. Are your employees burning out because workloads are unmanageable? Is there pressure to achieve at the expense of mental health? These questions are uncomfortable but necessary.
The Role of Leadership in Combatting Burnout
Leaders set the tone for how burnout is addressed (or ignored). Inclusive leadership means recognizing that not all employees experience the holidays or year-end pressure in the same way. It’s about showing empathy, creating space for open dialogue, and actively supporting diverse needs.
Here’s what you can do:
Acknowledge the Problem: Start by validating the reality of burnout. This could be as simple as a team meeting to check in or a company-wide message emphasizing that setting boundaries is okay.
Be Flexible: Offer flexible work arrangements where possible. This could mean extended deadlines, mental health days, or hybrid schedules to ease holiday stress.
Foster Connection: Encourage moments of connection that aren’t tied to work. Inclusive holiday celebrations, considering cultural and religious diversity, can help create a sense of belonging without alienating anyone.
Model Healthy Boundaries: Leaders must practice what they preach. Taking time off, setting realistic goals, and being transparent about your challenges show employees it’s okay to prioritize well-being.
Resetting for 2025: Individual and Organizational Strategies
The reset for 2025 starts now. Here are actionable steps for both individuals and organizations:
For Individuals:
Reflect: Reflect on what worked and what didn’t in 2024. Where can you set healthier boundaries?
Recharge: Prioritize rest, whether through time off, connecting with loved ones, or simply unplugging from work.
Set Intentions: Instead of rigid resolutions, set intentions for 2025. Focus on growth and balance, not perfection.
For Organizations:
Review Workloads: Audit team workloads to ensure they’re manageable and equitable. Burnout often stems from structural issues, not individual failures.
Enhance Support Systems: Invest in mental health resources, DEIB initiatives, and leadership training to foster an environment of care and inclusivity.
Communicate Vision: Share a clear, inspiring vision for 2025 that prioritizes business goals and employee well-being. Employees want to feel valued and aligned with a purpose.
Doing Better in 2025
Leadership isn’t just about driving results; it’s about driving culture. As you plan for 2025, remember that inclusive, empathetic leadership isn’t nice to have—it’s necessary. Addressing burnout, fostering inclusivity, and prioritizing well-being will help you set your team up for success and demonstrate what it means to truly lead.
Let’s commit to doing better. For ourselves. For our teams. For the future.
If you’re ready to be a more inclusive and balanced leader in 2025, Do Better Consulting is here to help. From leadership training to tailored DEIB strategies, we’ll work with you to help you foster a culture where your employees thrive. Contact us today to learn how we can help you do better.
