Post Holiday Blues: Using the Liminal Space Between Christmas and New Year to Gather Momentum

It’s common to feel the post holiday blues in the days after Christmas. The sparkle of festive celebrations fades, routines feel disjointed, and even leaders who thrive on structure can feel a little adrift.

But what if this lull isn’t just downtime to endure, but a unique opportunity to gather momentum for the year ahead?

This period between Christmas and New Year is a liminal space; a pause where the old year has ended, but the new one hasn’t fully begun. In leadership, these moments are gold: they allow you to reflect, recalibrate, and step into the next year with clarity, energy, and direction.

Why the Liminal Space Matters

Liminal spaces are transitional by nature. For leaders and professionals, they provide:

• Clarity: Time to review what worked (and didn’t) in the past year.

• Perspective: Space to consider your priorities, team needs, and personal growth areas.

• Energy Reset: A natural pause to recharge without guilt.

Rather than rushing straight into resolutions or workloads, leaning into this space lets you prepare strategically, ensuring the momentum you build in January is sustainable and focused.

Nancy Levin quote

Practical Ways to Use This Pause

1. Reflect, Don’t Ruminate
   Journal or think through key lessons from the past year. Identify successes, challenges, and patterns. Reflection fuels insight; rumination drains energy.

2. Map Your Energy, Not Just Your Tasks
   Note when you feel energised versus depleted. Plan your early-year initiatives around your natural peaks to create high-impact momentum.

3. Set Mini-Goals for Early Wins
   Rather than massive resolutions, choose a few focused actions you can complete in January. Small wins build confidence and momentum quickly.

4. Clear Your Mind and Environment
   Tidy your workspace, digital files, and calendar. A clear space encourages a clear mind, helping you step into the new year focused and ready to act.

5. Reconnect with Purpose
   Revisit your leadership vision or personal goals. Ask yourself: What do I want to feel and achieve this year? Keeping purpose front-of-mind fuels motivation and intentional action.

Turning the Post Holiday Blues Into Forward Momentum

Feeling low after the festive period is normal, but it doesn’t have to be passive. By leaning into this liminal space, you transform the pause into strategic preparation, allowing you to start the year with confidence, clarity, and energy.

Take a breath, reflect, plan small, actionable steps, and let the quiet days between Christmas and New Year become the springboard for a productive, inspired, and sustainable year ahead.

If you are ready to step into the new year with clarity and confidence, but you’re not sure how to even begin, then join me for The Empowered Leader programme, where you will harness your leadership potential and create sustainable impact without overwhelm. We begin 5th January 2026.