Welcome to the season of festive lights, ugly themed sweaters, and the seasonal flu. We focus on spreading joy, laughter, all sorts of cheer, and of course, germs. 

Surrounded by family and friends, coworkers and fellow shoppers, you are bound to come in contact with something unpleasant. Wash your hands, wear a mask if you care to. Take precautions so as not to spread the holiday malady. 

For most, this is a time of giving and joy. For others the overwhelming stress of overspending, over eating, and over mingling creates a negative state of mind and causes them to be nastier than even the worst case of the stomach flu. 

The flu bug has been successfully avoided for many years by many people. But the “Bah-Hum Bug” is not so easy to evade. 

The tree going up pre-thanksgiving. Christmas music blasting from the radio beginning November 1st. Hallmark Holiday movies in October. 

These activities are how many immerse themselves and kick off the winter festivities, including myself. I often decorate,start making lists, and shopping while our Wisconsin weather is still in the eighties. I do it because it makes me happy. My happiness spreads whether it be while I’m out smiling at the over crowded stores or wearing ridiculous elf spattered leggings in the office. 

This year is a little different. My holiday season just isn’t the same. I put the tree up. I have the music and movies on in the background. But the pure awe is missing.

I have been infected with the “Bah-Hum Bug”. 

I am trying not to spread it. I am staying home. I am painting a mask (smile) on my face. I know it is just a moment in time and I will soon recover and once again don the the Mrs. Claus dress. 

How do we keep the poor attitude pandemic from affecting and spreading in the workplace? What tools can we provide our people to not only help them recover, but also to avoid catching this highly contagious illness? 

• Wash Your Hands: Self Care. Take the time to take care of your needs. Whether it be a night alone with a glass of Eggnog or a prance around the neighborhood, do something to blow off the steam. As leaders or peers, be supportive during the time of need. Provide resources such as reading materials, podcasts or development opportunities. A busy mind is a happy mind. 
• Put a bow on it: Look for the positives of the situation. While the gift box may still contain coal, try to remember that’s where diamonds come from. Positive feedback from superiors or a mentor can give that extra boost to keep a person moving forward. 
• Avoid Reindeer Poo: If you can’t change it, stop letting it change you. 
• Believe: Look forward to what’s next. Know that a fresh start is just around the corner. Trust that this rough patch is temporary and you will discover a way to soar again. See yourself through the eyes of others and accept their words of affirmation. As managers, coworkers and friends, put on your shiny red nose and help guide the way through the fog. 
• Close the flue: The “Bah-Hum Bug” must be contained. Do not let one person’s negativity and bad attitude affect the rest of the team. If the contagion is spreading and the others are susceptible, remove the infected host from the area. They will likely be happy to work on a project alone or to be able to take a few days off without feeling guilty. I’m sure even the Big Guy has a bad day here and there, but he’s not coming down my chimney with a Grinch mask on. 

No one is always going to be full of joy and glee. Everyone is allowed a bad day. The important part is how we cope, and how we support those around us that matter and lead back to the gift of emotional and mental balance. 

Watch closely over your friends, families, co-workers and employees, for many this is a difficult time of the year. Some may just need time, or an available ear. Others may require more help to push though.

For more information on the Holiday Blues: https://www.nami.org/Blogs/NAMI-Blog/November-2013/Beat-Back-the-Holiday-Blues