It's the Most Stressful Time of the Year

Ahhh...Halloween just ended, so we all know what time it is, Christmas!

Let me not forget my actual favorite non-Christian holiday. I do love Thanksgiving.

With that being said, if you work in this industry in any capacity you know just how insane the next 2 months are.

Christmas season for the average American is generally a pleasant and yet stressful time of the year. To a Chef or someone in the service industry, it is the time of year you make crazy revenue, tips or grab those (hard to get) overtime hours.

Those are all great options unless you happen to be on salary. In that case you work an extra 2 to 4 hours a day for a smile and the obligatory, "You really keep this place going!" comment.

 Truth is, a lot of people in the industry don't get the opportunity to visit their families during what is supposed to be the time of the year for visiting with them. Yes, many of us join the service industry as rebellious young people who limit their time with their people. We substitute our families with people that we work with day in and day out. Sometimes that's a good thing—other times we find people who don't have our best interests in mind.

I am not trying to rain on anyone's holiday. I just want us to all focus on what really matters. We are all missing out on memories.

Now this doesn't mean we don't throw the best dinner parties or Friendsgivings during this season. It also doesn't mean that we don't have fun cooking and revamping our favorite holiday dishes.

This is simply a reminder to look out for yourself.

Make sure you get some rest and surround yourself with good people who will bring you joy. You should make time to worship.

Most importantly, don't become a meme during your holiday party by doing something you will regret. Remember that your boss, your clients, or your guests will be better served by the best version of you...believe that.