How to Decline Extra Holiday Nursing Shifts (Without the Guilt)
The holidays are hectic, and taking on extra shifts can overwhelm even the most dedicated nurses. Saying “no” isn’t selfish; it’s like putting on PPE and protecting yourself first so you can care for others safely. This post covers how to decline extra holiday shifts gracefully and without guilt.
Why Saying No Doesn’t Make You a Bad Nurse
Nursing is a selfless profession, and your dedication to patients is admirable—but even nurses need care. Saying yes to every shift may feel noble, but overextending yourself leads to burnout, fatigue, and mistakes. Protecting your own well-being isn’t selfish—it ensures you can provide safe, high-quality care when it truly matters. Taking care of yourself benefits everyone.
7 Tips for Setting Boundaries During the Holidays
Extra shifts don’t have to steal your holiday joy. Discover seven practical strategies to set boundaries, reclaim your time, and work when it fits your life.
1. Recognize the Importance of Saying No
Feeling guilty for turning down extra shifts is common, especially when you care deeply about your patients and team. But working beyond your limits can lead to fatigue, mistakes, and burnout. Saying no is not selfish—it’s essential self-care that keeps you at your best for the long term.
2. Plan Ahead and Communicate Early
If you know the holiday schedule in advance, plan your time off strategically to ensure you have sufficient time off. Communicate your unavailability as early as possible, so your manager can adjust staffing without last-minute stress. To show professionalism while still setting clear boundaries, use phrases such as: I want to support the team, but I’m unavailable for extra shifts over the holidays.
3. Offer Alternatives When Possible
Sometimes it helps to suggest alternatives when being asked to take on extra shifts. For instance, you might:
Swap shifts with a willing coworker.
Volunteer for a less busy day before or after the holidays.
Assist with planning coverage rather than taking the shift yourself.
Offering alternatives demonstrates teamwork without overcommitting yourself.
4. Use Professional, Polite Language
Being firm doesn’t mean being rude. Use clear, polite statements when asked about picking up additional holiday shifts, such as:
I won’t be able to take additional holiday shifts, but I’m happy to help with coverage planning.
I’m prioritizing personal time during the holidays to recharge, so I’ll be unavailable for extra shifts.
Consistency and confidence in your messaging help reduce guilt and prevent repeated pressure from supervisors.
5. Prioritize Self-Care
Declining extra shifts is part of protecting your well-being. Use your holiday time to:
Recharge physically and mentally.
Spend time with family and friends.
Reflect and set personal or professional goals for the new year.
Remember, rested nurses who prioritize self-care provide safer, higher-quality care.
6. Normalize Boundaries Within Your Team
Encourage a culture where saying no is accepted and respected. Share your strategies with colleagues and support each other in setting limits. This fosters a healthier work environment and reduces the stigma associated with declining extra shifts.
7. Work Holidays on Your Terms with ShiftMed
As a ShiftMed nurse , extra holiday shifts are never mandatory. You choose when, where, and how often you work—giving you true control over your schedule. Protect your well-being, avoid burnout, and still pick up shifts that fit your life. Download the ShiftMed app from the App Store or Google Play to get started.
Declining Extra Holiday Nursing Shifts Conclusion
Refusing extra holiday shifts doesn’t make you a bad nurse—it makes you a smart, self-aware professional. By planning ahead, communicating clearly, and prioritizing self-care, you can protect your well-being, maintain work-life balance, and return to work recharged and ready to provide exceptional patient care.