As the year winds down, many of us are trying to finish with a flourish while juggling festive commitments, fatigue, and the pressure to “be on” right up to the last minute. Is this ringing any (jingle) bells with you?!
At this time of year, kindness to ourselves matters more than ever. That’s why we’ve created The Twelve Days of Festive Wellbeing — simple, inclusive prompts designed to help you centre and support yourself through the final days of work, the holiday period, and your return in the New Year. Feel free to share these calming ideas with your teams, use them in meetings, or simply enjoy them for yourself.
🌟 Day 1 — The Gift of Boundaries
As deadlines pick up, give yourself the gift of one clear boundary: finish on time, pause for lunch, or decline the “quick favour.”
Wellbeing prompt to ask yourself: What boundary would Future You thank you for?
🌟 Day 2 — Micro-Moments of Rest
Rest doesn’t need a time slot. A few minutes of deep breathing, daylight, stretching or stillness can reset your mind.
Wellbeing prompt to ask yourself: Where can you fit a pause today?
🌟 Day 3 — Inclusive Festive Connections
Not everyone celebrates Christmas, and not everyone experiences the holidays the same way. Connect meaningfully and inclusively by checking in with people on their terms.
Wellbeing prompt to ask yourself: How can you create space for all kinds of celebrations — or non-celebrations?
🌟 Day 4 — Gratitude with Realism
Celebrate what went well, but also name something that was simply difficult. Understand there may be challenges. Realistic gratitude is healthier than forced positivity.
Wellbeing prompt to ask yourself: What three good moments — and one challenging moment — stand out from this year?
🌟 Day 5 — The Digital Switch-Off
Set an out-of-office that empowers you to fully disconnect and models healthy boundaries for others.
Wellbeing prompt to ask yourself: What part of your digital life most needs a holiday?
🌟 Day 6 — A Kindness Inventory
List the ways you’ve supported others — and yourself — this year. Emotional labour counts. Small acts count.
Wellbeing prompt to ask yourself: What kindness have you given that you rarely acknowledge?
🌟 Day 7 — Move in Ways That Feel Good
Movement is for mood, not measurement. A wiggle, a stretch, a dance in the kitchen — move joyfully.
Wellbeing prompt to ask yourself: What’s one move that feels good for you today?
🌟 Day 8 — Nourish Without Negotiation
No guilt, no justification. Nourish yourself in ways that feel grounding and enjoyable.
Wellbeing prompt to ask yourself: What food or drink brings you comfort or joy?
🌟 Day 9 — Reflection Without Pressure
Forget resolutions. Try gentle reflection instead.
- What do I want more of next year?
- What can I release?
- What did I learn about my needs?
Wellbeing prompt to ask yourself: What’s one thing you want more of for you in 2026?
🌟 Day 10 — Resetting Workload Expectations
Give January You a win: hand over one task, set one expectation, and schedule one item firmly after New Year.
Wellbeing prompt to ask yourself: What can you safely postpone?
🌟 Day 11 — Community & Support
Use — and promote — the wellbeing resources available: EAPs, mental health first aiders, peer support groups, or trusted colleagues.
Wellbeing prompt to ask yourself: Who is in your support network right now?
🌟 Day 12 — A Permission Slip for Yourself
Write yourself a permission slip for the season ahead.
Example:
“I give myself permission to rest, say no, enjoy good things, not be perfect, and return to work at a gentle pace.”
Download our ‘The Twelve Days of Festive Wellbeing’ infographic here >>>
We hope this helps to bring you moments of calm, clarity, and kindness.
Wishing you a restorative break in whatever form feels right for you. 🎄
~ Inclusive Recruiting powering Inclusive Workplaces
