Unemployed this Christmas? There is an upside.
The holiday season can be challenging for anyone navigating job loss or redundancy. As December rolls around, you might feel pressure to job search relentlessly, especially if your role was recently made redundant. But here’s an encouraging perspective: this time of year offers a rare opportunity to pause, recharge, and truly be in the moment.
Why? The job market slows dramatically during the December/January period. Recruitment teams take well deserved breaks, hiring decisions are delayed, and job postings taper off until mid to late January. While it’s natural to feel a sense of urgency, this quiet season can actually work in your favour.
The Benefits of a True Break
Being unemployed over Christmas can feel vastly different from a regular holiday. Without the looming return to overflowing inboxes and back to back meetings, you have the chance to experience genuine rest. This is a time to:
Recharge Fully: Use this period to rest deeply. Sleep in, enjoy slow mornings, and give your mind and body the care they need.
Reconnect: Spend quality time with family and friends, or dive into personal interests and hobbies that you haven’t had time for.
Reflect: Reflect on your career so far—what worked, what didn’t, and what you want in the next chapter. This clarity will serve you well when hiring ramps up.
Reclaim Joy: Embrace the present. Whether it’s holiday traditions, festive meals, or simply relaxing with a good book, let yourself enjoy moments of peace and joy.
An image of an upside down Christmas tree that gives the feeling of being uprooted but the tree is decorated, indicating hope and positivity.
A Strategic Pause
Taking a break doesn’t mean abandoning your job search entirely. You can use this quieter time to:
Refresh your resume and LinkedIn profile.
Research industries or companies you’re interested in.
Network informally by reconnecting with former colleagues over holiday greetings.
Treat this as preparation for a strong start in the new year.
The Best Time to Restart Your Search
The job market begins picking up in the second week of January as businesses plan for the year ahead. By the last week of January, most recruitment activities are back in full swing. By allowing yourself to rest now, you’ll be ready to approach this peak hiring period with renewed energy and focus.
Give Yourself Permission
Remember, you’re not in control of the job market but you are in control of how you respond to this unique situation. By giving yourself permission to step back and relax, you’re not being complacent; you’re investing in your mental and emotional wellbeing.
“You’re not being complacent; you’re investing in your mental and emotional wellbeing.”
This holiday season, choose to see the upside. Use this time to truly rest, recharge, and embrace the present. The job search will still be there when the world picks up speed again, but you’ll be ready to tackle it with the focus and energy it deserves.
Here’s to finding peace this holiday season and preparing for a fresh start in the new year.
Danielle Kabilio | Career Management Consultant