Everywhere you look, there is a subtle (not-so subtle) hint that the holidays are here. These reminders come in many shapes and sizes, such as the changing colors of the candy bags, the 6 foot tall holiday tree blocking the hallway, or even this blog. I wish I could say that I’m not going to reflect on the holidays, but lying simply isn’t polite. I am, however, going to give you my personal survival tips on getting through the holidays when you aren’t home.
Survival Tip #1: Plan a “gathering” with your family and friends. If you are not heading home at all during the holidays, bring home to you! Use the technology we have by skyping on the laptop, tablet, or mobile phone. Being able to take part in the festivities was still better than nothing for me. Have them prop you up at the end of the table so that you can be a part of the dinner conversations. Make sure you are eating at the same time too!
Survival Tip #2: Speaking of eating, treat yourself to a home cooked meal. Buy the ingredients for your holiday meal and prepare it. Invite co-workers and throw one heck of a holiday shindig. If opting to go solo, rent your favorite holiday movie and pop it in while enjoying your yummy meal.
Survival Tip #3: Acknowledge that this sucks! Yes, sometimes, it simply sucks and you just have to put your big boy and/or girl pants on and deal with it. I did and once I stopped stomping my feet, the holiday was over and tomorrow actually was a new day. Also, remember that you know the end date of your assignment, we have individuals serving who do not (yes, I went there.)
Survival Tip #4: Volunteer! If you want to feel festive, volunteer at a shelter during your off time. Nothing makes you feel more charitable and it serves as a reminder that the holidays are a time for giving to others. Ask your co-workers – they can help you out with some options.
Survival Tip #5: Acknowledge that this is awesome! You get to see new places and if you are in the right locations, are able to see how other people get their festive cheer on. I love driving around and seeing the lights, and since I was in Arizona, this was a unique way of seeing decorations with a more southwest flavor. No matter where you are, explore!
These are just a few tips and I’m sure your fellow travelers across the U.S. have other tips too, so post comments! As for those wondering how I would know about surviving the holidays, I can proudly say that I travel quite frequently for what I do and in fact, did an extensive (10 months!) travel assignment of my own. Being reminded of the holidays when I’m in an apartment with just me, myself, and I is something I can relate to. Let me tell you, there were times that I did have a glass of wine and sang “All By Myself” at the top of my octave range. I’m not proud, but I survived and so can you because let’s face it, you are a healthcare traveler! You are outgoing, adaptable, and dang it, just pretty darn special. Happy holidays from the Student Outreach and the Rehab Therapy team here at Aureus Medical.
Sun Hui (Sunny) Snook graduated with a B.A. in Psychology from Truman State University and received a Master’s in Human Services from Bellevue University. She has been in the healthcare staffing field for 11 years, first working with nurses before moving to a nationwide work strategies consultant where her key responsibilities were to coach staffers and hospital managers on effective staffing. In 2009, Sunny started with Aureus Medical as an Account Manager in the Rehab Therapy division, working with both clients and prospective employees. In 2011, she moved to Student Outreach Coordinator. Sunny was named the 2011 Employee of the Year for C&A Industries, the parent company of Aureus Medical Group. Sunny’s current title is Branch Manager – Recruitment and Student Outreach for the Rehab Therapy Division. Prior to working in healthcare staffing, she served as an addictions therapist and residential treatment coordinator for five years.