The VA’s Guide to Balancing Work and Holiday Cheer

As the temperatures drop and Christmas markets light up towns, the holiday season is in full swing. It’s a time for family gatherings, gift exchanges, and cosy traditions. Yet, for virtual assistants (VAs), a familiar dilemma arises: to work or not to work over Christmas?

Balancing the allure of extra income and stronger client relationships with the need to spend time with loved ones and recharge can stir up mixed emotions—guilt, anxiety, and stress. This blog is here to help you weigh the pros and cons and guide you in making the decision that’s best for you this festive season.

The Pros of Working Over Christmas

Extra Income:

There is no need to be shy about it, earning a little extra money is the biggest positive about working over the holidays. Christmas is an extremely busy time for your present and potential clients. With end of year deadlines, influxes of customer requests for shipping and invoices, and busier inboxes – it’s the perfect time for extra hours. This extra money can then be spent on Christmas trimmings for the big day, or New Year’s Eve drinks.

Standing Out

One sure way to attract attention to your business is to be one of the few businesses still open over Christmas. With clients swamped under last-minute customer enquiries and their usual go to for admin closing for the year- it’s the perfect time to be the knight in shining armour. Stepping up to help organise their inbox and gift orders, shows quick thinking in high pressure situations.

Christmas is also the perfect time to introduce thoughtful festive packages! These are perfect for clients who may want extra help with preparing customer gifts and sending out greeting cards, or who need help organising end of years plans and procedures for the new year.

Network Opportunities

The festive season is the perfect time to not only strengthen current relationships with clients, but get your name introduced new ones. By going the extra mile to support your clients, you not only provide valuable assistance but also leave a lasting impression. Clients, inspired by the spirit of giving, are often more inclined to express their gratitude through referrals, introducing your services to others who may need similar support.

The Cons of Working Over the Christmas

Holiday FOMO

Whether it’s missing out on a family dinner, a Christmas movie marathon with friends, or even Uncle Stan’s hilariously terrible Santa costume, one of the biggest downsides of working over Christmas is losing precious time with loved ones. Skipping Christmas gatherings can leave you feeling left out, disconnected, or even guilty. Feeling left out is also a real motivation killer, knowing that your loved ones are having fun without you can make the most rewarding work feel like a grind.

Risk of Burnout

The Christmas rush can push you beyond your limits, leading to burnout—a state of physical and emotional exhaustion. Symptoms like constant fatigue, trouble focusing, and headaches can strain both personal and business relationships, undoing the benefits of extra work.

Before deciding to work over the Christmas period it is important to take a moment to reflect on your own mental health. Consider whether you’re able to handle both your regular workload and any additional services your clients may need. Taking care of yourself ensures that you’ll be able to maintain your productivity and professional relationships without sacrificing your health.

The VA’s Guide to Balancing Work and Holiday Cheer

· Structure the workday: Ensure you have scheduled in tea and lunchbreaks and start and finish times.

· Be strict with yourself: Once your closing time approaches, put the mouse and keyboard away and turn off the work phone.

· Breathing Exercises: When you’re feeling overwhelmed, take a break and try these deep breathing exercises.

Deciding Whether to Work or Take Time Off

Financial Needs vs Personal Wellbeing:

Start by reflecting on what matters most this Christmas. If extra income will cover gifts, January holidays, or heating bills, working might make sense. But if you’re drained and need to recharge, taking a break could be just as valuable for your well-being.

Check What Your Clients Need

Take a moment to think about the type of work your clients do. If they’re in industries like retail, chances are they’ll need extra help during the run up to Christmas and New Year. But if their business usually slows down around this time, you might find it easier to take some time off without leaving them hanging.

Conclusion

At the end of the day, the choice to work or take time off during Christmas is personal. Whether you decide to roll up your sleeves or put up your feet, the key is balance. With a little planning, you can enjoy the best of both worlds—professional success and Christmas merriment. Cheers to a Christmas filled with productivity, joy and a good laugh at Uncle Stan’s Santa outfit!