How to Keep Spirits High During the Holidays (Especially When You’re Working Them)

For most people, the holiday season means decorations, big lunches and time off. 

For healthcare workers? 

It often means long shifts, busier wards, and trying to spread cheer even when you’re running on limited sleep and unlimited caffeine. 

If you’re working through Christmas or New Year (or both), this is your reminder: you deserve to feel the holiday spirit too. Here are some simple, realistic ways to keep spirits high - for yourself, your team, and the people you care for. 

୨ৎ 1. Bring the Cheer with Fun Scrubs 

Never underestimate the power of a cheerful print. 
Fun scrubs are more than just a uniform, they’re a walking morale booster. 

Whether you go for a full festive print or just a pop of colour, it’s an easy way to brighten the ward and spark a smile from patients, colleagues, and even yourself. 
It’s amazing how much lighter a shift can feel when you’re wearing something that reflects joy. 

And if prints aren’t your thing, coloured scrubs in green or red still bring the festive mood without going full Santa’s workshop. 

❄︎ 2. Make Space for Small Rituals 

You may not get a full holiday break, but small moments count. 
A quiet coffee before your shift, your favourite snack waiting in your locker, or five minutes of deep breathing in the staff room can change your entire day. 

Little rituals = tiny pockets of control in a chaotic environment. 

☃︎ 3. Lean Into Team Spirit 

Nobody understands shift-life during the holidays like the people standing beside you. 

• Swap Secret Santa gifts 

• Bring in a shared snack plate 

• Play a “guess the Christmas song from the first 3 seconds” game 

• Start a tradition like festive badge reels or matching socks 

Connection turns the ward into community — and community makes everything easier. 

❤︎ 4. Set Boundaries (We Know, It’s Hard) 

It’s okay to say no. 
It’s okay to not pick up extra shifts. 
It’s okay to rest. 

Burnout often peaks this time of year, so listen to your body and protect your energy. You can’t pour from an empty cup (and you certainly can’t pour from an empty coffee cup either). 

✉︎ 5. Stay Connected to Loved Ones 

Even if you can’t be with them, a quick voice note, photo or call can make you feel grounded. 
If you’re working Christmas or New Year, try planning a belated celebration - your people will still show up for you, even if it’s a few days later. 

✿ 6. Plan Something Just for You 

A treat, an outing, a long nap, a massage, a movie, a walk -anything that makes you feel human again. 
Looking forward to something (even something tiny) can make a huge difference during a busy week. 

★ˎˊ˗ 7. Celebrate the Impact You Make 

The holidays can be tough in healthcare: emotionally, physically, mentally. 
But what you do matters. 

You’re the reason someone feels safe. 
You’re the person who comforts families who can’t all be together. 
You’re the calm in the storm. 

That’s worth recognising and celebrating. 

❤︎ Final Reminder: 

You’re allowed to enjoy the season, even if you’re working it. 
You’re allowed to spread cheer and protect your peace. 
And you absolutely deserve comfort, colour, and a little extra joy - both on and off the ward. 

And if all else fails… fun scrubs + good coffee = instant mood boost. ❤⊹₊⋆︎