Unpacking the Holidays: Balancing Employee Relocation and Festive Cheer

The holiday season is a time for celebration, togetherness, and creating cherished memories. For many, it means family gatherings, festive decorations, and the joy of tradition. However, for employees in the midst of a relocation, the holidays can also bring added stress and complexity. Juggling employee relocation packages and holiday packages isn’t easy. Balancing the challenges of a move with the desire to embrace the holiday spirit requires careful planning, creativity, and a little help along the way.

In this blog post, we’ll explore practical tips for making the most of the holidays while navigating an employee relocation. Whether you’re a relocating employee or an HR professional supporting transferees, these strategies can help bring a sense of normalcy and joy to the season.

1. Plan Ahead to Reduce Stress

Relocating during the holidays requires meticulous planning. Moving companies and service providers often have limited availability, and the holidays themselves can disrupt schedules. Here are some tips to stay on track:

• Book Early: Secure moving services, temporary housing, and storage solutions as soon as possible to avoid last-minute challenges.
• Create a Holiday Calendar: Mark important dates, including moving timelines, family gatherings, and holiday celebrations. This ensures you can coordinate logistics without missing key moments.
• Set Priorities: Focus on essential tasks and events. It’s okay to simplify holiday traditions this year if it reduces stress.

Proactively managing timelines and expectations can free up mental space to enjoy the holiday season.

2. Create a Festive Atmosphere Anywhere

Whether you’re in temporary housing or unpacking boxes in your new home, it’s important to bring the holiday spirit with you. Even small touches can make a big difference:

• Pack a Holiday Essentials Box: Include decorations, a few favorite ornaments, holiday lights, and any other items that make the season special. This box should be easily accessible so you can quickly create a festive environment.
• Focus on Portable Decor: Use small, versatile decorations like table centerpieces, wreaths, and battery-operated candles. These are easy to set up and pack away.
• Embrace Local Traditions: Explore holiday events and activities in your new community. It’s a great way to get to know your new surroundings and make memories.

Even in the midst of a move, a little effort can transform your space and keep the holiday cheer alive.

3. Stay Connected with Loved Ones

For many, the holidays are synonymous with spending time with family and friends. Relocation can make this challenging, but there are ways to stay connected:

• Host Virtual Gatherings: Use video calls to join family celebrations, exchange holiday greetings, or even open gifts together.
• Send Thoughtful Messages: A heartfelt card or email can bridge the distance and let loved ones know you’re thinking of them.
• Plan Future Visits: If you can’t be together this year, plan a reunion in your new home once you’re settled.

Technology and intentional communication can help keep relationships strong, even miles apart.

4. Support Children Through the Transition

Relocating during the holidays can be especially tough on children. They may feel uprooted from familiar surroundings and traditions. Here are some ways to ease the transition:

• Involve Them in Decorating: Let kids take the lead in setting up holiday decorations. This will give them a sense of control and excitement.
• Maintain Traditions: Try to replicate key family traditions, even if it’s in a simplified form.
• Create New Memories: Use the relocation as an opportunity to start new holiday traditions that reflect your family’s new environment.

By focusing on fun and creating a sense of stability, you can help children adapt and embrace the season.

5. Leverage Employer Support

For companies that provide relocation assistance, the holidays are a critical time to provide additional support. Here’s how you can make a difference:

• Offer Flexibility: Allow transferees to adjust timelines and workloads to accommodate holiday plans.
• Provide Resources: Share local guides for holiday activities, shopping, and services in their new area.
• Check In: A simple email or call to see how employees are managing can go a long way in showing you care.

By proactively addressing potential stressors, HR teams can foster goodwill and help employees thrive.

6. Embrace the Opportunities of a New Location

Relocating during the holidays can feel overwhelming, but it also opens the door to unique opportunities:

• Discover Local Events: Attend holiday markets, parades, or community gatherings in your new area.
• Explore Seasonal Activities: Whether it’s ice skating, caroling, or trying regional holiday foods, embrace the chance to create new traditions.
• Make Connections: Use the holidays as an icebreaker to meet neighbors and colleagues. Hosting a small holiday gathering can help you feel more at home.

Viewing relocation as an adventure can turn the holidays into a time of discovery and growth.

7. Practice Self-Care and Mindfulness

The combination of relocation and the holiday season can take a toll on mental and physical well-being. Prioritize self-care to stay balanced:

• Take Breaks: Set aside time to relax and recharge, whether it’s watching a holiday movie or enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of tea.
• Stay Active: Physical activity, even a short walk, can help reduce stress and boost your mood.
• Acknowledge Emotions: It’s normal to feel a mix of excitement and sadness during a significant transition. Give yourself permission to experience these emotions.

A little self-compassion can make all the difference during this busy time.

8. Reflect on the Bigger Picture

The holidays are a time for gratitude and reflection. Amid the hustle of relocation, take a moment to appreciate the opportunities a new chapter brings:

• Celebrate Progress: Acknowledge the hard work that’s gone into the move so far.
• Set Intentions: Consider your goals and aspirations for the new year in your new home.
• Express Gratitude: Share appreciation with those who have supported you through the transition.

Focusing on the positives can help you end the year on a high note and look forward to what’s ahead.

Wrapping Up

Relocating during the holidays may present unique challenges, but it’s also an opportunity to embrace change, foster connections, and create new traditions. By planning ahead, staying flexible, and focusing on the joy of the season, you can make the holidays memorable and meaningful, no matter where you are.

As the only 100% employee-owned relocation management company, we understand the complexities of relocation and are here to support employees and employers every step of the way. Contact us for expert guidance and resources to make the transition as seamless as possible.

TRC’s employee-owners wish you a joyful holiday season and a successful start to the new year!