To Not Agree To This?

[zukiecat]

I know there is a similar thread on here somewhere but this is my situation and I'd like some opinions please

I started work nearly three years ago in my local shop after a long time of having mental and physical health issues and I'm really enjoying my job

I have worked the past two Christmas Eves and Boxing Day, but this year I'm off Christmas Eve and working Boxing Day, I should also say that I work every weekend usually and only get one off if I 'm on holiday

A colleague who has only been there for four weeks is complaining that she has to work in the morning on Christmas Eve because she has DS, who is 12 and could I change a day with her so she could be off

My DDS are older, but I still want to see them over the three days!

I said No because it's lovely to have the whole weekend off for a change, but now I'm worrying myself about it, those of you who know me of old will know that I do stress about these things and I will agonise over it, get the guilts and end up changing my days!

I am more assertive these days, but do you think I should change the days? I'm working Hogmanay if that has any bearing

Reading again I see she's new to the job. That makes it even more important that she grasps that her private life does not trump yours or anybody else's. Start as you mean to go on.

No don't swap. If Christmas eve falls on a weekday I have to work it the same as everyone else!

Your family is as important as anyone else's. Don't swap!

Its Xmas eve ffs not a double shift Xmas day!
Her 12yr old wont give a toss if she is there or not, they will do their own thing anyway.

Do not swap, its your turn to have time off at Xmas enjoy every minute of it.

If she keeps asking just say "I have worked 2yrs running its my turn to have it off so what part of NO dont you understand"?

Thanks everyone

I'm just in from my shift and lovely to see all the good wishes from everyone

If she starts again I might just have a word with the boss, and let her deal with my colleague

You're all right in saying that it may be her turn next year, the boss has actually worked the rota so that people like me and a few others who never get a weekend off actually have one this time

The other ladies I work with ( predominantly female workforce) are all fine with working, it's just this new person who has kicked off

Go in tomorrow wearing the most garish Christmas jumper you can find.

Tesco have ones that light up.

If she asks again "nope sorry I have plans, worked the last two, looking forward to it" turn away to a customer and " can I help you with anything"

I don't know your history zukiecat but learning to stand up for yourself is hugely empowering and by reading this thread it seems like something you have struggled with and you are overcoming, well done and keep doing it

Ha Ha KingJoffrey

Now that would be funny, unfortunately there is a strict uniform code, but I could wear it over it instead of a coat

No you are absolutely right to not swap.

Yes having Christmas Eve off is lovely when you have children and it's something I personally aim for each year (doesn't always happen). In my younger days I would happily swap and work Christmas Eve and Boxing Day so I could get New Year off and have a massive piss up. Now I wouldn't swap as I don't drink much and I love Christmas.

It's your turn to have Christmas Eve this year not hers. She asked (which is fair enough as a lot of holiday swapping between staff does happen this time of year) you said No so that should be the end of it. I agree speak to your manager if she persists in trying to guilt trip you.

DH was scheduled to work Christmas Day this year and one of the younger guys asked to swap with him for New Years Eve. Tips on Christmas Day are really good and he wanted to go out for the bells. The trade works out well for everyone DH gets Christmas Day with us and can see DD opening her presents and the other guy gets his new year party (and the tips that are usually around £100).

Don't change! Stick to your guns!