Year-end sprint for leaders: Maintain productivity without overloading the team? - Time to act.

Relaxed X-Mas Team (Source: AI generated)

Do you also feel the pressure during the pre-Christmas period;  the world needs to be saved on all fronts one last time. Doubts about meaningfulness increases in the team. In addition to that we realize more and more only some of the task will be accomplished. Frustration. The team barely makes it to Christmas week with their last bit of strength.

With the final sprint still in everyone's bones, the team needs to be sworn in for the new year, while the lead’s credibility may decrease.

I experienced this myself for many years and just discussed it again with my client.

This can be done relaxed for everyone! Latest by 2nd half of November, it's time to act…

In order to maintain a balance between maintaining productivity and reducing the burden on colleagues, targeted measures in the areas of work organization, employee health and team culture can help:

1. Work Organization and Prioritization

• (Joint) definition of the most important goals for the end of the year

• Postponement of non-critical projects and meetings into the new year

• Realistic planning of the remaining projects

• Clear communication with superiors and customers about achievable goals

• Get temporary support for critical issues

2. Team culture and communication

• Promote open communication about stress, regular check-ins

• Schedule time for annual review and performance evaluation

• Organize joint activities such as Advent celebrations

• Create a positive, Christmas atmosphere

• Allow time for personal Christmas preparations

3. Well-Being and support

• Offer support in case of impending overload, redistribute tasks

• Ensure regular breaks

• Offer flexible working hours and home office options

• Enable exercise and relaxation exercises during working hours

• Promote stress management measures

How do you support your team?

What are your pain points during the pre-Christmas season?