Wanting to enjoy #Christmas. Why is my biggest workload at the "happiest" time of year? #highereducation #family

I love my job and what I do, but I hate how the work is dispersed (some might argue that it is never ending). Everyone thinks that teachers have it easy. Summers and the "right" holidays off. However, for those of us who work in higher education, any break is supposed to be dedicated to research and travel to conferences. This can be very fulfilling but also a real source of stress at home. Christmas time for me is always a balance of research, prep for the new school term, family activities and last minute shopping. It is generally pressure filled, but for me, it is over-the-top. Next year, I may skip a conference, grab a hot cocco, and cuddle with a loved one by the fire.