December 2024 Newsletter

December Newsletter: Staying Balanced, Healthy, and Generous This Season

As the year comes to an end, it’s a great time to reflect, plan, and make the most of all the opportunities available to you. This month’s newsletter focuses on key ways to help you close out 2024 strong and start 2025 on the right foot. From maximizing your benefits and staying stress-free during the holidays to staying healthy and giving back, we’ve got you covered with actionable tips and resources. Let’s make this season meaningful and set you up for a fantastic new year!

Quick Links:

• Make the Most of Your Year-End Benefits

• National Stress-Free Family Holidays Month

• Your Guide to Winter Wellness

• December Spotlight: Giving Back

• Kick Off 2025 with Financial Wellness

Make the Most of Your Year-End Benefits

As 2024 comes to an close, take a moment to review your benefits and ensure you’re making the most of them. Check your FSA balance to use eligible funds before they expire—this could mean scheduling a last-minute medical appointment or purchasing approved items. Don’t forget to use any remaining PTO to relax and recharge before the new year. Finally, if you haven’t maxed out your 401(k) contributions, now is the perfect time to do so. Proper planning ensures you avoid missed opportunities and starts 2025 strong. For a quick and easy way to spend down your FSA dollars, visit FSAStore.com to review items that are preapproved and eligible for purchase.

National Stress-Free Family Holidays Month

The holidays are a time for joy, but they can also bring stress. Managing work commitments, family gatherings, and gift shopping is no small feat. This December, take advantage of our Employee Assistance Program (EAP), offering free counseling and tools to reduce holiday stress. Set realistic expectations, delegate tasks, and carve out time for self-care.

Here are five tips to make your holidays more manageable:

• Set clear, realistic goals for what you can accomplish this season.

• Delegate shopping, cooking, or decorating tasks to family members.

• Schedule short breaks throughout the day for mindfulness or relaxation.

• Avoid overcommitting by politely declining extra responsibilities.

• Plan ahead by creating a simple to-do list and prioritizing tasks.

Remember, your well-being matters. With these resources and tips, you can enjoy a holiday season filled with meaningful moments rather than overwhelm.

Your Guide to Winter Wellness

Winter brings unique challenges to your health, from battling seasonal colds to staying active when it’s chilly outside. Prioritize your well-being by getting a flu shot, maintaining a balanced diet, and finding creative ways to exercise indoors. Mental health is equally important—seasonal changes can take a toll, so explore our mental health resources if needed.

Here are some winter wellness tips to keep you at your best:

• Stay hydrated, even in cooler weather, to keep your energy levels up.

• Include immune-boosting foods like citrus fruits, garlic, and ginger in your meals.

• Dress in layers when going outside to regulate your body temperature.

• Take short, brisk walks outdoors to get sunlight and combat seasonal blues.

• Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation to manage stress.

Let’s make this winter your healthiest yet, so you can fully enjoy the magic of the season!

December Spotlight: Giving Back

The spirit of giving is at the heart of the holiday season. Through our donation matching program, you can double your impact by supporting charities close to your heart. Setting up payroll deductions for charitable contributions is simple and effective. Whether it’s donating time, money, or resources, every little bit helps. Together, let’s bring joy and hope to our communities. Take advantage of this opportunity to give back and make a meaningful difference this December.

Looking for a cause to support? Here are some helpful websites where you can explore different charitable opportunities:

• Charity Navigator – Find highly rated nonprofits.

• VolunteerMatch – Discover volunteer opportunities near you.

• GlobalGiving – Support global and local projects.

• JustGive – Search for causes and set up donations.

• GuideStar – Research nonprofit organizations.

Let’s spread joy this season by making a positive difference together.

Kick Off 2025 with Financial Wellness

With the new year approaching, it’s the perfect time to reassess your financial goals. Maximize your 401(k) contributions, plan your budget, and explore our financial coaching services to set yourself up for success in 2025. Whether you’re saving for a big goal, tackling debt, or building an emergency fund, our resources can help you stay on track. Start the year with confidence and a solid financial plan to achieve your dreams.

Here’s a recommended financial wellness checklist to kick off the year:

• Review your 2025 financial goals and adjust them as needed.

• Maximize contributions to your retirement accounts, including your 401(k).

• Establish or revisit your emergency fund to ensure it meets your needs.

• Create a monthly budget to track spending and identify areas for savings.

• Consult with a financial advisor or use company-provided financial coaching resources.

• Set automated savings contributions to meet long-term goals effortlessly.

Taking these steps can help you start the year on the right financial footing and stay motivated to achieve your dreams.

Thank you for taking the time to educate yourself on these important topics. Staying informed about your benefits, wellness resources, and financial goals is a step toward building a better future for yourself and your loved ones. If you have any questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to the Benefits Team or visit the Benefits Portal. Wishing you a joyful December and a successful start to the new year!