Is Staying Open on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve Worth It for Corporate Optometrists?
The decision to open your practice or business on Christmas Eve (Xmas Eve) and New Year’s Eve (NYE) sparks a lively debate among ODs in the Corporate Optometry Facebook Group. While some see it as an opportunity to meet end-of-year demands, others prioritize work-life balance and argue that these days should be spent with family and loved ones. Here’s a breakdown of perspectives to help you weigh the pros and cons.
Christmas Eve: A Case for Closing
- Low Productivity: Many professionals report that Xmas Eve is a quiet day. Patients or customers often cancel last minute or fail to show up at all, making it a frustrating day for staff.
- Family and Tradition: Christmas Eve is culturally significant, making it an ideal day to close and prioritize family over work. Several ODs emphasize the importance of preserving work-life balance.
- Staff Morale: Giving staff the day off boosts morale and creates goodwill, which can improve retention and job satisfaction. The staff deserve the extra break for the busy week ahead.
- “Not good mentally for the staff. They deserve the extra breaks,” another shared.
New Year’s Eve: A Mixed Bag
- Busy but Manageable: NYE tends to be busier, particularly for professionals working in healthcare or financial services, where clients are eager to maximize benefits before the year ends. It is worth it because people are trying to use up their end of the year HSA money.
- Shortened Hours Work Best: Many businesses find success with reduced hours, closing early to allow staff time to celebrate the holiday. This compromise maintains productivity while respecting personal time.
- Variable Value: While some practitioners see fully booked schedules on NYE, others experience slow afternoons. Location and client base often determine whether it’s worth staying open.
What Works for Most?
Many ODs adopt a hybrid approach:
- Close on Christmas Eve: This day often sees minimal activity, making closure a logical choice to give everyone a break.
- Open Half-Day on New Year’s Eve: Reduced hours provide a good balance for serving customers or patients while giving staff an early start to their celebrations.
Work-Life Balance: The Key Takeaway
The conversation highlights a growing trend toward prioritizing balance over profits. Ultimately, the decision depends on your business model, partnership with corporate optical and your values. If staying open aligns with demand and your team feels supported, it could be a win-win. If not, closing these days might be the gift everyone deserves.