Preparing yourself physically and mentally for the busiest time of the year
Christmas comes but once a year – although it might seem more of a permanent fixture to those in the logistics, warehousing and retail sectors who’ve been planning all year for the weeks leading up to the big day.
While the workload is on warehouse pickers and packers, delivery drivers, admin staff and haulage operators to help get orders out on time – one key element of the planning process should be your mental health.
For those in retail, it is a difficult time on the shop floor, dealing with heavy footfall and long hours. In the warehouses, or out on the roads, it’s stressful and tiring, with orders coming in relentlessly and the high expectations of clients who don’t want to let their own customers down.
So how can you prepare yourself physically and mentally for one of the craziest times of the year?
Be ready for the rush, but bear in mind that there are regulations about working times and statutory breaks that should not be ignored by your employer just because the pressure is on. Find out from the start what is expected of you, and who your line manager is, and speak to them if you feel the demands are unreasonable.
If you’re a temporary worker, make sure your introduction to the role covers everything you need to know about what you will need to do, where you will need to be, who is in charge, and what to do if you get to a point where you simply can’t cope – having the information helps to reduce the stress. If there are any issues or you are unsure about your work, don’t be afraid to raise this with your manager or the person in charge.
If you can’t spend time with family or friends and having chosen to work during the holiday period instead, it’s even more important to take good care of yourself. Spending limited time with loved-ones during this season can feel quite lonely. However, you’re not alone. Your colleagues might feel the same too. So, if possible spend your lunch time building meaningful connections with fellow workers. Make sure you do not isolate yourself.
Additionally, drink enough water during your shifts, eat well and also take the time rest, especially on your days off.
If you’re looking for temporary work during the holidays, ACS Staffing Solutions can help. Contact us online or give us a call on 01604 704058.
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