Returning to work rejuvenated: your essential guide to post-holiday wellness
As 2025 approaches, many of us are reflecting on the year behind us and looking ahead with fresh goals and aspirations. But let’s be honest: the holidays can be just as exhausting as they are exciting.
In South Africa, where 35% of people have reported that they are struggling their mental health, the highest percentage globally, according to the Mental State of the World Report, it’s clear that prioritising self-care isn’t just a luxury; it’s a necessity.
So, how do you return to work healthier, more balanced and ready to make a real impact? According to Jaco Oosthuizen, co-founder and managing director of YuLife SA, finding balance and recharging your batteries during the holidays is key.
Here are 8 practical tips to help you reset and head into the new year with energy, focus and purpose.
Rest like your life depends on it (because it does)
Sleep is foundational to health and well-being. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) notes that sleep deprivation can cripple attention spans and memory, diminishing cognitive performance by 20–50%.
Getting enough rest can enhance cognitive function by 33%, improve physical recovery by 30% and significantly reduce the risk of mood disorders.
Balance indulgence with healthier choices.
The festive season often creates an opportunity for indulgence. While it's acceptable to enjoy treats like mince pies and braais, maintaining balance is vital.
Staying hydrated with plenty of water is key, as is incorporating light physical activities such as family walks or quick yoga sessions.
Swapping out one daily indulgence for a healthier option can help maintain both physical and financial wellness. Planning and budgeting for holiday expenses ensures a guilt-free start to the new year.
Mindfulness matters
Take time to be fully present in the moment. Mindfulness doesn’t require extravagant retreats; it can be as simple as a morning breathing exercise or keeping a gratitude journal in the evening.
Such practices can reset your mental state and alleviate stress, equipping you with a calmer and more grounded mindset to face challenges.
Not travelling? No problem
For many South Africans, travel is synonymous with the holiday experience, yet it often comes with its own set of stresses.
Staying home can be just as refreshing. Consider local exploration, hosting a movie night or engaging in a DIY home improvement project. Simple moments often create the most cherished memories.
Set realistic work-life goals.
Work-life balance is a choice that requires conscious effort. Consider what truly matters to you as you move into 2025. Set goals that align with your values, break them into manageable milestones and establish accountability mechanisms.
Managers should lead by example, prioritising rest to avoid burnout, a state that should never be viewed as a badge of honour.
Know when you’re not okay.
Should end-of-year fatigue spiral into ongoing exhaustion and demotivation, it is crucial to take notice. Signs of burnout or depression must not be ignored. Seeking help is not a sign of weakness; rather, it’s a vital investment in your most valuable asset - your health.
Lead with EQ
Given that around 80% of South Africans reportedly experience holiday-related stress, leadership grounded in emotional intelligence (EQ) is paramount.
Emotional intelligence has also been shown to boost productivity by up to 36%. That also means understanding that some members of your team may not have had the most restful festive season. That is why it is important to be empathetic.
Show vulnerability when appropriate, actively listen and demonstrate that you value their perspectives. When leaders lead with heart, they inspire teams to thrive, not just survive.
Don’t ghost your wellness tools and apps.
Maintaining connections with wellness tools, like mindfulness apps or fitness trackers, during the festive season can help preserve momentum. Consistency in small, intentional choices leads to healthier, happier versions of ourselves.