A Harris Poll survey conducted for insurer Travelers finds 43% of drivers admit to using a phone behind the wheel to keep in contact with work. "If an employer texts an employee who is driving, and the employee gets into an accident while reading or responding to the message, it is possible that the company could be brought into a legal action," said Dave Nelson of Travelers.

Silicon Valley companies attract top talent using wellness perks, such as personal life coaches, organic meals and treadmills offered to Asana employees. Microsoft's corporate wellness center offers workers health screenings, acupuncture, diet counseling, and an on-campus sports field for Frisbee, basketball, soccer, football and other games.

Petting zoos might be a trend in wellness, as companies such as Squeals on Wheels bring a traveling menagerie to companies that want to reduce employee stress. Honey Hill Farm has brought camels to a shipping-logistics company for Hump Day, and Tiny Tails To You has sent its petting zoo to Apple, Facebook, Dell and Whole Foods.

Professionals should use a holiday break to engage in activities to enhance their careers, such as evaluating their budget and finding ways to improve their skills, says HR expert Kristen Collins. She also suggests networking or seeking a mentoring relationship.