‘Tis the Season to Log-Off

Unplugging over the holidays is more than just a nice idea—it has real benefits for professional performance, wellbeing, and long-term career sustainability. I am the first to admit that taking time away from work can be challenging, so I’ve put together some tips that have worked for me when it comes prioritizing rest when our schedules allow – without pretending we can disappear entirely.

1. Set a “coverage plan” before you log off

Assign a colleague to monitor urgent emails or court deadlines and agree on what counts as urgent. This reduces the temptation to constantly check in “just in case.”

2. Create a clear out-of-office message

Use language that sets expectations:

• • Let contacts know response times will be slower.
  • Provide your coverage contact.
  • If you must check email, set a specific window (e.g., mornings only), and say so.

3. Pre-schedule difficult tasks for January

Block calendar time now for early-January work so you’re not mentally carrying it through the holidays.

4. Turn off “red dot” notifications

Disable email, Teams, and Slack alerts on your phone. If full disconnection feels impossible, allow only VIP notifications for the handful of people who might genuinely need you.

5. Use a “parking lot” list

Keep a notepad or phone note where you jot quick to-dos or ideas as they pop up. Offloading them stops your brain from spinning.

6. Have a shutdown ritual

Before the break, spend 20 minutes organizing your desk, clearing your inbox of clutter, and triaging tasks. A clean slate makes it easier to relax.

7. Set personal guardrails

Define what “unplugging” means for you:

• No email after 5 p.m.?
• Only one check-in every other day?
• No work devices in certain rooms?

Choose boundaries that feel achievable, not aspirational.

8. Tell family/friends your plan

Sharing your unplugging goal creates accountability and reduces the chance of “just quickly checking something” while you’re supposed to be present.

9. Replace the habit loop

If you typically tap your phone during downtime, replace it with something intentional: reading, audiobooks, winter walks, cooking, or catching up with people.

10. Give yourself permission not to be productive

Lawyers are conditioned to maximize every minute. A genuine break is a productivity strategy—your January self will thank you.

11. Reflect on the year (briefly)

If work thoughts creep in, channel them into a structured 10-minute reflection: wins, challenges, opportunities. Then close the notebook and be done.

12. Remember: responsiveness ≠ value

Your clients and colleagues will survive a brief slowdown. Taking real time off helps you return clearer, more strategic, and more effective.

The Winter holidays are a time when the majority of businesses see some type of slow down, so take advantage of it and do your best to prioritize rest – your 2026 self will thank you.

About the Author

Alexa is the Director of Marketing at Harper Grey. She serves as the Treasurer of LiL and is also a member of LiL’s Coordination Committee where she assists with content development, event organization and all other things LiL! She is active in the legal community and is the Past President of the BC Legal Management Association (BCLMA).