The holiday season is a great time to spend time with family, catch up with friends, and get a much-needed break from work. Unfortunately for healthcare professionals, medical needs never seem to take a vacation. Though it may not be your first choice, there are a few unique benefits of working during the holidays.
Earn points for being the nice guy. Covering a shift not only gives you the chance to help a coworker, but it shows that you're a team player.
- Avoid the holiday shopping crowds. Moving your celebration to another day allows you to shop for gifts after the crowds have dissipated -- and while after-holiday sales are plentiful.
- Show off your leadership skills. While your facility's leaders are taking time off, you can show that you know how to run the place (and lead the people).
- Earn extra cash. For most people, the holidays are the most expensive time of the year. Instead of pulling out the credit card, consider taking a locum tenens assignment to add to your cash flow.
SEE ALSO: Working Locum Tenens has an Upside for Residents
- Have a legitimate excuse for missing a family party. Picking up an extra shift is great way to get out of exchanging white elephant gifts and listening to your in-laws fight with each other.
- A floating holiday. Many employers offer extra time off for working a holiday. Save that day for something fun in the new year.
- Learn something new. With a skeleton staff, you may be asked to do things you've never done before. Consider it a challenge!
- Feel good about yourself. By working a holiday, you're not only allowing a colleague to stay home, but you're offering care when people need it most.
RELATED: Which Types of Physicians are Happiest Outside of Work?
Working over the holidays can be a bit of a downer, but only if you let it be. Stay positive, focus on the good things, and enjoy the season.
