The traditional office Christmas party doesn’t really enchant you… Good news: you are not alone! But if missing this professional event because of a sick child is understandable, without valid proof, skipping these festivities can quickly become complicated. Pascal Anger, clinical psychologist, guides us to emerge victorious from this end-of-year meeting.
A mixed Christmas spirit
A tree, a light garland, a miniature Santa Claus… and the magic of Christmas begins. Except in the office, where the hypocrisy of Christelle, your colleague, swept away all forms of innocence and magic. Result ? The desire to raise a glass at his side does not enchant you. You will prefer – by far – to spend an evening under your duvet.
However, in some companies, not going to such an event could be frowned upon. The management, without openly accusing you, will remember your lack “team spirit“. Unlike your colleagues, you wanted to stand apart, and that… shows! Indeed, while your colleagues will have played the game, you will have given the impression of withdrawing… and refusing the collective dynamic.
In this context, should we then prioritize being aligned with our desires… or is it better to “force” ourselves, at the risk of having a very long (and bad) evening? Pascal Anger, clinical psychologist, answers us.
Office Christmas party: an obligation?
On this subject, opinions seem divided. And it all depends of course on the atmosphere at work, the relationship you have with your colleagues and what this pot represents: is it a tradition, a way of (re)creating the atmosphere in the team? Is it time taken from our working hours or extra time? Do we have to participate or is it a little extra, offered by the company? “So many questions that will modulate your choices and your perception”, recalls the psychologist.
If, despite everything, you decide to go to this evening – because your presence remains strategic – remember to add a bit of good humor.
“Don’t be sullen and think about participating. It’s a great opportunity to open up to others, showing positivity. Otherwise, it’s better to politely decline under the pretext of something else,” recommends Pascal Anger.
Of course, once there, don’t have a series of glasses of mulled wine to forget the disagreements with your N+1. Maintaining a certain restraint is preferable, especially if you do not want to lose credibility.
“We must keep in mind that this moment reflects the image we project: it is a convivial time, but above all we remain at work. This is neither the time to talk about raises nor plans for next year. So act with caution, avoid any negative interpretation and weigh the pros and cons of what you say or do.“, advises the practitioner.
Finally, avoid forming a “clan” with one or two colleagues. Perhaps, over a hot chocolate, you will be surprised by this discreet but friendly colleague, who will become your new best sidekick!