This time of the year can be busy and stressful for many reasons. Are you away from your family and friends while on the road? Have you had time to get all of your holiday shopping done? Working a travel assignment over the holidays can also add to your stress level. Here are a few ideas to help make your holidays enjoyable.
Traditions
Find some easy traditions that you can still do on the road away from home. Make a photo holiday card to mail to your family and friends. Highlight some of your adventures on the road so they can see where you’ve been this past year.
Seasonal activities
Check out the activities for the city you’re in. Many cities have ice skating, local tree lighting ceremonies, plays, musicals, concerts, or other holiday activities. Look at the city’s local tourism site, and they should point you in the right direction!
Bake
Do you have a favorite recipe that you associate with the holidays? Take the time to bake some goodies. See if your co-workers want to do a cookie exchange. Check out local bakeries and see if they have a “local” goodie that is special to the area that you can try.
Get together with friends and co-workers
Connect with other travelers. Get together with your co-workers for a game night. Wear your ugly Christmas sweaters! Have your co-workers over for a potluck holiday meal.
Reach out to family
If you have to work over the holidays, find a time to call them early. If you want to “see” everyone, try and video chat before you head into work for the day. If possible, arrange to drive or fly home after the holidays to have a quick get together. If that doesn’t work, arrange a time after your assignment is complete to get together!
Laura Speicher is a Student Outreach Coordinator for Nursing on the Student Outreach team at Aureus Medical Group.