Keeping Your Employees Motivated Over the Holidays: A Leader’s Guide

"This time of year is your opportunity to help your team stay engaged while also respecting their need to recharge and reconnect."

The holiday season is here, bringing with it joy, excitement, and, let’s face it, plenty of distractions. With employees juggling work responsibilities, family gatherings, and holiday prep, it’s natural for some to feel checked out. As a leader, this time of year is your opportunity to help your team stay engaged while also respecting their need to recharge and reconnect. Here’s how you can motivate your employees while fostering a balanced and supportive workplace during the holiday season.

1. Connect with Your Team

If you’ve been a distant leader recently, now’s the time to reconnect. Check-in with your employees individually or as a team. Ask them how they’re feeling and what they need to stay focused. Showing genuine interest in their well-being builds trust and motivates employees to stay on track. Remember, employees who feel seen and heard are far more likely to stay engaged.

2. Respect Work-Life Balance

The holidays are a time to recharge and spend with loved ones, so be mindful of your employees' schedules. Unless there’s an emergency, encourage your team to leave at appropriate times every day. Lead by example—if you’re working late every night, your team might feel pressured to do the same. Setting boundaries reinforces that you value their time and helps prevent burnout.

3. Set Holiday Goals and Rewards

Motivation thrives on clear goals and incentives. Collaborate with your team to set realistic, short-term holiday objectives. Celebrate wins along the way with rewards like gift cards, extra time off, or a team lunch. Recognizing accomplishments fosters a sense of achievement and keeps everyone focused. (We think Starbucks or Amazon gift cards always go over well!)

4. Help Employees Create Focus Time

The constant buzz of the holiday season can make it difficult to concentrate. Encourage your team to carve out dedicated focus blocks—time slots where they can work uninterrupted. Whether it’s turning off notifications or reserving a quiet space, small changes can lead to big productivity gains.

5. Go the Extra Mile with Treats and Camaraderie

The holidays are a stressful time for many, so small gestures of appreciation can go a long way. Surprise your team with coffee, treats, or even a holiday-themed happy hour. These moments of camaraderie not only relieve stress but also remind your employees that you care about them as people, not just as workers.

6. Remind Employees to Set Boundaries

While it’s important for leaders to model work-life balance, employees also need to take responsibility for setting boundaries. Remind them to prioritize their time, avoid overextending themselves, and remember the golden rule: you work to live, not live to work. A rested and recharged employee is far more effective than one running on fumes.

In Closing

The holidays can be a challenging time for both leaders and employees, but with thoughtful communication and proactive support, you can keep your team motivated and on track. By respecting boundaries, celebrating achievements, and fostering a sense of connection, you’ll not only maintain productivity but also strengthen your team’s morale. And that’s a gift that keeps on giving long after the holidays are over.

Want to learn more about how to strengthen your communication with your team through Maxwell Method DISC trainings? Schedule your FREE consultation here.  

Written by the team at A Higher Way Of Living