December is here, and that means trying to juggle your growing list of freelance and salon appointments with the demands of a festive social life. It’s very easy to feel as if you’re being pulled in all directions, with very little time left for yourself, but it doesn’t need to be that way. We’ve put together some simple steps that you can take, both in the salon and at home, that will help you to stay stress-free. So, whether you’re flapping like a partridge in a pear tree, or leaping like a lord, read our steps for coping at Christmas.
How can I manage my mental health at Christmas? | Salon Services
How to balance your salon and social life this Christmas.
It’s very easy for the whole of the festive period to become a blur when you’ve got back-to-back clients booked in and you haven’t even started your Christmas shopping. That’s why it’s important to put plans in place to help you to navigate this profit-boosting period. The ways that you keep the salon running smoothly will not necessarily be the same as the ways you keep your own mental health in check so, grab a mint hot chocolate, settle back, and let’s get ready together.
Tips to keep the salon running smoothly this Christmas
Your salon or freelance business is going to be busier than ever this year as everybody looks forward to spending time with their friends and family. So, here are our six tips for stress-free success.
1. Plan and organise ahead of time
Now this might seem straightforward but there’s often a temptation to wing it. Plan your rotas, making sure that you have enough staff at key periods, and stock up on your salon essentials. Also, think about any products that would be perfect for your clients to buy as last-minute stocking fillers.
2. Communicate with your team
It’s easy to get caught up in the rush of clients, so regularly check that your team are coping. You might love being rushed off your feet, but others might be struggling. Also remember to ask everyone for their preferred days off. Some people love Christmas, some people love New Year, so try and accommodate their preferences if possible.
3. Call for back up if you’re busy
There are only so many hours in a day and, if you have back-to-back appointments, you can’t do it on your own. Whether you need a temporary stylist, a little help shampooing clients, or even someone to take charge of the telephone, don’t be afraid to reach out for help.
4. You need to take your breaks
How many times do you say to yourself that you’re too busy to take a break? Well, at Christmas you definitely need them. Step away from the salon floor, even if it’s just for 5 minutes to grab a drink, because we guarantee that it will keep you hydrated and calm.
5. Who doesn’t like some home baking?
It’s the little treats that can make all the difference when you’re staring at a full appointment book. So, channel your inner Nadiya Hussain or John Whaite, and bake a few surprises to help keep the teams energy up. If you’re not Delia Smith then you can pop to the supermarket instead.
6. Take some time for yourself
It’s easy to think that there’s no way you can take any time off during the festive period, but you can. One day a week, give the responsibility of running the salon to your most capable stylist. Everybody else has a day off, and that should also include you.
Tips to keep you cool, calm and collected this Christmas
We hear a lot about mental health and festive fatigue at this time of the year, and the solution begins with managing your own time. Take a moment to read our six tips for a healthy and happy Christmas.
1. Sleep is a guaranteed stress buster
One of the most important things that we all need, especially at Christmas, is a good night’s sleep. You can’t keep going on a few hours for the whole of December, it’s a sure way to end up stressed and burned out, so get into the habit of going to bed at a regular time.
2. You are allowed to say no
Everybody will want to see you over the holidays, but don’t feel that you need to commit to every invitation. Say yes to the ones that you want to go to, and say no to the others. Only do what you wat to do, because it’s your Christmas as well.
3. One night a week belongs to you
Looking after yourself begins with learning to enjoy your own company. So, one night a week, turn off the group chat, mute the notifications, and do whatever you feel like. Watch TV in your pyjamas, plan the Christmas dinner, but just make sure it’s all about you.
4. Grab your scarf and head out
It’s easy to spend all of December inside the house or inside the salon, and that’s why it’s great to grab your scarf and coat and go for a walk on your day off. There’s another reason though - there’s bound to be an Eggnog Latte or a Black Forrest Hot Chocolate somewhere on route!
5. Books, bubbles and beautiful “me time”
Switching off from the daily routine of appointments and clients is really important when it’s busy. So, if you love a soak in the bath, grab your favourite bubble bath or bomb, pick up a book, and relax. If you’re not a soaker then how about a long steamy shower?
6. Thank you for being a friend
While many people love Christmas, it can also be a hard time for others. Instead of texting them or sending a WhatsApp, pick up a cheerful card and write them a note. It doesn’t need to be an essay, but reaching out will make both them and you feel so much better.
Have a wonderful Christmas season, remember to take some time out for yourself, and don’t let anybody tell you that you can’t have just one more chocolate!
Shop all the professional hair and beauty essentials for your salon or freelance business this Christmas at Salon Services, and stay up to date with the latest trends on our Beauty Talk blog.
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