We all experience it every November and December, but particularly when year-end is just a couple of weeks away – the inability of employees, co-workers and even ourselves to focus. Work minds are full of holiday thoughts of presents to be purchased and menus to be prepared, plus, often sleep-deprived. We suggest providing focus to foggy and distracted minds with one or a series of clean-up days, afternoons, or mornings because of these great benefits:

1) A cleaning spree can reinvigorate office energy and engagement – being realistic about what type of work you can expect employees to perform well during the holidays and redeploying resources appropriately is just smart management. Why not apply your employees’ tired, cluttered brains to a task that’s less critical to your organization’s success?

Your employees will love you for recognizing they’d welcome less mentally-draining tasks this time of year. During the week between Christmas and New Year’s Day, we’re guessing most folks would rather throw out no-longer-needed paperwork than create a complex financial spreadsheet.

2) It will provide a clean start – research shows an uncluttered desk and work space lends itself to more innovative thinking. Set your employees up for a creative start to the new year by making the office a place they will be happier to return to.   

3) It builds bonds – provide a pizza lunch or breakfast buffet as both an incentive for cleaning and a place/opportunity for co-workers to mingle. Whether you are or aren’t throwing a larger holiday party, this can make for nice recognition. And, just the common task of tidying up together should lend itself to teamwork and employee bonding.

4) It’s scheduled exercise – physical activity often takes a backseat during the holidays. Provide a reason and time for employees to get some good exercise as they move around their cube, office, or common area – throwing out, filing, or rearranging items.