When Work Doesn't Stop - Even During the Holidays

Happy Holidays! 

For those who know me… I’ll say it up front: I’m a little obsessed with Working Genius.
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Over Thanksgiving, I was reminded that work never really escapes us. Even on our most restful days, there’s still a dishwasher to load, a table to set, garbage to take out, or a store to run to. And while some of that work energizes us, other parts quietly drain us.

That’s where Working Genius has been unexpectedly helpful for me — not as a label, but as language. Language that helps explain why certain tasks feel life-giving, while others feel heavy. And here’s the reframe that’s mattered most to me lately:

​Time spent in our Frustrations isn’t failure — it’s Adaptability. It’s us stretching, helping, and showing up where we’re needed, even when it’s not our natural strength. That doesn’t mean we live there — but it does mean we can give ourselves (and others) a little more grace when we do.
As we move through end-of-year celebrations — holidays, gatherings, and year-end wrap-ups — listen to the phrases people use. They often reveal the Genius they’re bringing:

• “I wonder about this…” → Wonder — seeing both the challenge and the opportunity.
• “What if we…?” → Invention — imagining new possibilities.
• “No, this is the better option…” → Discernment — protecting quality and outcomes - hones ideas
• “Let’s all…” → Galvanizing — rallying people and creating momentum.
• “What could I do to help?” → Enablement — offering support and partnership.
• “I’ll take this.” or “What's left to finish?” → Tenacity — executing and following through.

End-of-Year Insight: When we hear these phrases as contributions instead of interruptions, everything shifts. Irritation gives way to appreciation. Gatherings — whether at work or at home — feel calmer, kinder, and more connected.

Sometimes the kindest thing we can do at the end of the year is simply recognize the Genius in each other… and remember that when you are working outside your Genius, your adaptability opportunities are really soaring.

And if you’re looking for simple ways to invite each Genius into the moment this season, try language like this:

• Wonder: “What do you think about this? Any questions about this?
• Invention: “Want to help us solve this?”
• Discernment: “I’d love your instinct on this.”
• Enablement: “Would you help me sort this out?”
• Tenacity: “Can you help me finish this?” (even if it’s a puzzle 😉)

Wishing you rest, connection, and a little extra grace — for yourself and others — as the year comes to a close. 💛