In many cases, people find that workloads swell around public holidays, a pattern that has drawn attention in a recent study. The research, conducted by a regional insurance group and a major employment site, and later reviewed by industry observers, points to several factors behind the surge: tighter deadlines, a gentler rhythm among some colleagues, and a shorter reporting window as holidays approach.
The data suggest a notable portion of workers skip breaks during official weekends and public holidays, with about six in ten not stepping away from tasks. A sizable share explains their actions as necessary to wrap up tasks, while a smaller group uses the intensified period to earn extra income. A minority stays in touch with customers even when a day off would be typical. These patterns illustrate how otherwise routine breaks can be deprioritized when holiday pressures mount.
For roughly one in three respondents, workload climbs dramatically in the days leading into a holiday weekend. The sense of urgency expands well before the holiday itself, with many reporting tighter deadlines appearing as early as a week prior. The resulting strain is not merely a productivity issue; it can affect well‑being, as a considerable portion of workers report feeling overworked, persistent back pain, and sleep disturbances during these peaks.
Opinions diverge on how to recalibrate the calendar to reduce stress. Almost half of workers would like holidays distributed more evenly across the year, with some advocating for quarterly spacing that yields extra rest days. Others favor employee discretion over holiday timing, and a similar share would prefer compensation in exchange for working on those days. A smaller group envisions a four‑day workweek by eliminating public holidays altogether, hoping to smooth the annual workload rather than concentrate it around specific dates.
When it comes to the holiday that creates the most stress, the New Year period tops the list for many workers. The common culprit is the backlog created by postponed tasks and the need to wait for weekends to finish projects. Additional relaxation by some colleagues can block the progress of others, while some view the shortened reporting period as an unreasonable constraint. These dynamics highlight how the culture surrounding holidays can either ease or intensify pressure, depending on how teams coordinate and communicate across time blocks.
One takeaway is the importance of proactive planning and clear expectations as employees prepare for upcoming breaks. Employers can help by outlining realistic timelines, encouraging short breaks to maintain health and focus, and considering flexible scheduling that spreads workload more evenly. For workers aiming to protect well‑being, setting boundaries around after‑hours communication and agreeing on reasonable response times during holidays can make a meaningful difference. This approach aligns with broader workplace trends seen in numerous regions where balanced holiday policies support sustained performance without sacrificing health or morale.
As digital connectivity increases and responsibilities stretch across borders, companies in North America often explore practical models that accommodate diverse holiday calendars. The goal is to sustain productivity while preserving rest, which benefits both team cohesion and individual health. In the end, thoughtful calendar design, transparent task management, and a culture that respects downtime are key to navigating holiday periods without sacrificing results or well‑being. This balanced stance is increasingly recognized as essential for sustainable work life in Canada, the United States, and beyond.