As a travel health professional, you’re used to putting other people’s needs before your own. You also know that no matter what time of year it is, the hospital lights never shut off! The holidays are meant for spending time with loved ones. However, many patients are unable to spend time with their loved ones and need assistance. You may feel frustrated because your friends have the holidays off and you don’t. If you’ve been working in the health care field for a long time, or even just started working in the field, you probably know that you can’t expect to have every holiday off. Health professionals are constantly in demand, and patients don’t automatically feel better around the holidays! Along with the cons of working holidays, there are also a few pros that will help you get through the holiday season!
Pros of Working Holidays
- One pro of working holidays is that you will most likely get paid extra. This extra pay will look different depending on your assignment or other factors, like the agency or hospital. If you are expecting to be on assignment during the holidays, then make sure to ask about extra pay before you sign a contract. If you know that you’re making more money, the holiday shifts will definitely go by more quickly!
- An obvious pro about working holidays as a health care professional is that you get to care for patients who need you. This is true all year round, but it can be especially rewarding to take care of people around the holidays. You have the opportunity to make a difference in a patient’s life, and they may need you during the holidays more than any other time of the year.
- Working during the holidays can be peaceful. There are fewer patients and staff members crowding the hospital or office. Because it is less crowded, you will have more time to form bonds with both patients and your coworkers. You will also probably be less stressed than other, busier, times.
Cons of Working Holidays
- The biggest con of working holidays is that you do not get to be with your family and friends. It can be hard to be away from loved ones at any time, but it can be especially challenging during the holidays. You may feel like you’re missing out on traditions and memories. Just remember, you’re making a difference in numerous people’s lives!
- Another con to consider when working holidays is that there are fewer people working alongside you. This can be especially stressful if you work in the emergency department or other stressful environments. It may feel like all of the work is falling onto your shoulders, but remember, it won’t last forever.
How to Cope with Working Holidays
- Bring some holiday cheer into the workplace! This could be dressing in a fun holiday costume or sweater or bringing hot chocolate to drink during your break. You can also find cute holiday scrubs to wear that will be sure to make your patients smile.
- Organize a potluck or other holiday-themed gathering. Everyone can bring their favorite holiday treat and snack all day, or you can have a big meal during a common break. Food brings everyone together!
- Find a local event to attend after work to put you in the spirit. This can be anything from ice skating, attending a musical, or even putting on your favorite holiday movie at home! Whether you dress up for the occasion or wear your pajamas in your living room, be sure to put yourself in the holiday spirit.
- The most important thing you can do to cope with working holidays is to stay in touch with your loved ones. Be sure to call your family and friends so you can still connect with them during the holidays. You can even FaceTime them while they do your favorite holiday traditions! It may seem easier to isolate yourself so as to protect your feelings, but even hearing your family and friends’ voices will make it all worth it.
Working holidays can be something to look forward to! You can still perform your health care duties while getting in the holiday spirit and continuing to make a difference in patients’ lives. Watch our video on the pros and cons of working holidays below for more tips!
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