"Self-care is giving the world the best of you, instead of what’s left of you.” - Eleanor Brownn
For property managers, the Christmas and New Year season is typically the busiest, but one that can take a toll on personal wellbeing. With extended working hours, high occupancy rates, and the extra demands of holiday travellers, it’s crucial for property managers to stay balanced and healthy to keep up with the season's demands. Here are six essential tips for maintaining personal wellbeing while supporting your team during this time.
- Prioritise Hydration
Staying hydrated is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to maintain energy and focus, especially during long, demanding days. With the Queensland heat during summer, dehydration can happen quickly, leading to fatigue and a drop in concentration. Keep a water bottle within reach, and set reminders to drink water regularly. If plain water gets boring, try adding slices of lemon or cucumber for a refreshing twist. Staying hydrated helps maintain mental clarity, supports energy levels, and boosts mood—all essential for handling holiday season demands!
- Set Clear Boundaries and Breaks
While it’s tempting to stay "always on" to handle every guest’s needs, taking short, regular breaks can actually enhance productivity and prevent burnout. Schedule brief breaks between tasks, even if it’s just a five-minute walk outside or a moment to stretch. Establish clear boundaries between work and personal time, even if they’re small during peak season. For example, resist checking emails or messages during your lunch break or right before bed. Creating space for downtime will help sustain your energy and improve focus.
- Practise Simple Mindfulness Techniques
The holiday season can be hectic, so practising quick mindfulness exercises can help maintain calm and clarity. Try taking a few deep breaths between tasks, or focus on a short meditation during a break to reset. You could also do a quick "grounding exercise," where you identify five things you can see, four things you can touch, three things you can hear, two things you can smell, and one thing you can taste. These small moments of mindfulness reduce stress and help you feel centred, even on the busiest days.
- Support Your Staff
As a property manager, your team’s wellbeing is as important as your own. Simple gestures to show appreciation can boost morale and help your team feel valued during this busy season. Organise a small team breakfast or treat your staff to morning coffees—little acts that make a big difference. Encouraging open communication and checking in on each team member’s workload can help alleviate stress. Consider planning a team event for after the holidays, like a lunch or celebration in February, to give everyone something to look forward to.
- Make Time for Sleep and Rest
With longer hours and more guests to attend to, sleep can often be overlooked. However, getting enough rest is vital for physical and mental recovery. Aim for consistent sleep by creating a winding-down routine, even if it’s brief. Limit caffeine intake after the early afternoon to help you relax before bed, and disconnect from screens an hour before sleep if possible. Quality rest ensures you’re more productive, focused, and equipped to handle the fast pace of the holiday season.
- Spend Time with Family and Create Your Own Traditions
If your family isn’t in the same industry, they may not fully understand the demands of your holiday work schedule, which can make it challenging to connect during this time. However, finding small, meaningful ways to spend time together and creating unique family traditions can help bridge the gap. Set aside a specific evening or a weekend day for family time, whether it’s a relaxed dinner, watching a holiday movie together, or enjoying a festive breakfast tradition. Even small efforts can create cherished memories and help you feel more connected with loved ones.
By focusing on personal wellbeing and supporting your team, property managers can make it through the Christmas and New Year period not only with success but with resilience. Small, consistent efforts to maintain hydration, rest, and mindfulness help balance the intense holiday demands, setting up a healthy start for the new year.
