Holiday Season Separation Anxiety

With the holiday season upon us, most folks are planning to take some time off work. But the economy doesn’t take breaks, and many managers may feel reluctant to relinquish control of their team, even when it’s their well-deserved vacation. Fear is a big driver, and when bosses – like kids – don’t have control, such as with matters of a vacation from work, a “terrible office tyrant” or “TOT” can emerge.

A needy boss wants constant assurance that the employees will take care of all needs and deadlines, holiday or not. Some ‘TOTs’ at the helm may be taking shorter vacations themselves, particularly at smaller companies, which can put additional pressure on employees hoping for a peaceful holiday break.

Holidays is the time to relax and recharge, and your employees will be thankful if you let them do it without feeling guilty. Read more on the issue in my recent article for PsychologyToday.com.