Festive Season at Work: How to Stay Calm, Confident, and Included 🎄

The festive season can bring joy - but in the workplace, it often comes with extra challenges.

From office parties to last-minute deadlines, this time of year can feel unpredictable.

For neurodivergent adults, those changes can lead to stress and sensory overload.

The good news? With planning and self-advocacy, you can create a festive season that feels calm, inclusive, and right for you.

Here are 15 workplace-specific strategies to help you thrive during the holidays. 🎁

1. Confirm Holiday Hours and Deadlines 🗓️

Ask your manager early about changes to working hours, project deadlines, and meeting schedules. This helps you plan and avoid last-minute surprises.

2. Block Out Focus Time 🔒

December can be full of interruptions. Use your calendar to block quiet work periods so you can stay productive without feeling rushed.

3. Plan for Office Decorations 🎄

If decorations affect your sensory comfort, ask if they can be kept minimal near your workspace. Suggest alternatives like digital festive screensavers instead of flashing lights.

4. Prepare for Music and Noise 🎧

Background music or chatter can spike during the holidays. Bring noise-cancelling headphones or ask if music can be kept at a low volume in shared spaces.

5. Set Boundaries for Social Events 🎉

Office parties, lunches, and after-work drinks can feel overwhelming. Decide what feels manageable - maybe attending for 30 minutes or skipping entirely. Participation is optional.

6. Ask for Agendas Before Meetings 📋

Festive meetings often include games or informal activities. Request an agenda so you know what to expect and can prepare for any changes in tone or structure.

7. Manage Secret Santa Stress 🎁

If your workplace does gift exchanges, ask for clear rules: budget, deadlines, and gift ideas. Suggest practical or experience-based gifts if shopping feels stressful.

8. Create a Calm Corner 🛋️

If your office allows, identify a quiet space where you can take short breaks when things feel too much. Even five minutes away can help reset your energy.

9. Use Visual Reminders 📱

Track festive events, deadlines, and personal breaks in a digital calendar or planner. Colour-code tasks to separate work priorities from social activities.

10. Speak Up About Sensory Needs 🗣️

If scents, flashing lights, or crowded spaces are difficult, let your manager know. Most workplaces will accommodate if they understand your needs.

11. Suggest Inclusive Alternatives 🌈

If loud parties aren’t your thing, propose quieter options like a team lunch, charity fundraiser, or virtual celebration. These can feel more inclusive for everyone.

12. Plan Your Commute 🚗

Holiday traffic and public transport delays can add stress. Leave extra time or ask about flexible hours or remote work options if possible.

13. Prepare for Last-Minute Changes 🔄

Festive season often brings sudden schedule shifts. Build in buffer time for tasks and keep communication open with your manager.

14. Manage Email Overload 📧

End-of-year emails can pile up. Set specific times to check messages instead of constantly monitoring your inbox.

15. Prioritise Wellbeing 💜

Take breaks without guilt. Hydrate, eat regularly, and schedule downtime outside work. Your wellbeing matters more than a perfect festive performance.

You deserve a workplace that respects your needs - especially during the holidays. By planning ahead and setting boundaries, you can create a season that feels calm, inclusive, and joyful. 💫