This worker must have his thoughts, tastes and preferences respected. However, it cannot be allowed to damage the work environment of the work team.
‘El Grinch’ is a goblin who has twice as little heart, who lives in a cave on top of a mountain north of ‘Villa Quién’ with his dog Max. It is characterized by being grumpy, solitary and, above all, by hating everything that has to do with Christmas, product of the noise caused by its celebrations.
Beyond the fictional tale written by Theodor Seuss Geisel (Dr. Seuss), the soul of ‘The Grinch’ seems to have possessed some people, to the depths of the thoughts of workers, bosses and managers of Colombian companies.
And it’s true. Many may be ‘Grinch’ or have co-workers who are. The important thing is that the fact that someone does not like Christmas, does not give him the right to damage the December environment of the rest of the members of the work area or the company.
However, those who do like Christmas should respect the position of the person away from the festivities. You have to understand it and not pressure it or force it to link to the scheduled Christmas activities.
Paola Andrea Sánchez, coordinator of Corporate Services at the British Council in Colombia, said: “It is important to take into account diversity and inclusion policies, so that everyone respects beliefs, religions and preferences. And just because someone doesn’t celebrate or like Christmas doesn’t mean they’re going to have problems in the office.”
Sanchez adds that it’s not an obligation for employees to participate in Christmas activities at work. It should be voluntary.
“While you can call someone ‘Grinch’ as a joke, it’s not right for these types of comments to be manifested, as this can create an uncomfortable work environment. That is why diversity and inclusion policies are implemented,” recommends Sánchez.
Similarly, if you are the area manager or have people in charge and definitely do not like Christmas, the best advice is not to inhibit your subordinates from enjoying the festivities and times with their loved ones. Nor that you ban Christmas decorations and arrangements in the office.
People should not be judged by their beliefs or ways of looking at life. Perhaps many ‘Grinch’ have personal reasons that do not allow them to love Christmas.
Martha Parada, consultant in Selection and Development, advises taking this situation calmly. You must respect the beliefs of others, take the opportunity to reflect on what the true meaning of Christmas is, reconnect with the team and try to be happy respecting the visions of others.
The spirit of Christmas is contagious, not imposed. It may happen to many ‘Grinch’ what happened to the original, that is, they end up with a heart three times bigger, giving gifts, hugs and words of sincere affection to their co-workers.
Christmas Job Tips
According to Martha Parada, consultant in Selection and Development, a worker ‘Grinch’ must be given support, friendship and affection, and not judged; Be tolerant and not bitter if you do not participate, nor make negative comments about him. Respect for the beliefs of others should always prevail. Both those who like Christmas and those who do not, “should take advantage of this time to reflect, take stock, surround themselves with positive people, study, read, eat and prepare for the following year.”