Doing ALL the things! - Preparing for the holidays

Make a list

Begin by making a list of all the tasks that need to be completed in the upcoming weeks.  Commit to doing the tasks you enjoy, and either ditch or delegate the rest. Focus on making memories instead of headaches for yourself.  If you don’t like to bake, don’t participate in the cookie exchange at work this year.  

If you find large projects on your list that involve many tasks to complete, list out those tasks separately and assign dates and times for when you will do each task.  Breaking projects down into tasks will make it feel more manageable. For example, rather than writing “send holiday cards,” on your list, break it down into smaller tasks, such as “buy holiday cards,” “write and address cards,” and “drop off cards at post office.”

Delegate tasks you don’t enjoy

If you don’t enjoy doing a task but it needs to be completed, consider delegating it to a family member or hire someone to help.  Tasks that you might consider delegating include:

• Cleaning the house pre- and post-party – If possible, hire a cleaning service.
• Cooking and baking for a party of 15?  Have it catered or plan a simple sandwich buffet, make your own pizza party, order handmade desserts from your grocery store, or do a potluck.
• Decorating feel like just too much?  Hire an organizer to help sort through décor, unpack it and repack it after the holidays.

Assign task to time

Making a list of things you must do is great fun, but often we make lists and the tasks on the list don’t get done.  The magic happens when we assign the task to time.  Take your list and put the tasks right into your calendar or planner.  Assign what date and time you will do each task.  Honor these commitments as if they were a doctor’s appointment.  When you complete tasks and feel in control of your own time, life seems less stressful. 

Self-care

Holidays are a time to enjoy loved ones and make memories with them.  If you are stressed out and constantly chasing task after task, you won’t enjoy it, precious time will pass you by, and you probably won’t be that pleasant to be around.  Make time for you! (Put your oxygen mask on first!)  You can’t help others until you help yourself.  Make it your personal mantra to only agree to activities that align with your goals, passions, and priorities.  Find time to partake in activities that energize and revitalize you:

• Instead of exchanging gifts, plan a spa day or brunch with friends, or plan an outing to a sporting event.
• Prioritize haircuts and manicures/pedicures as you would during other times of the year.
• Find time to watch holiday movies, play outside, or other relaxing activities you enjoy.
• Appreciate the good around you.  Start a gratitude journal.  It will change your day, and possibly your life, if you stick with it.

I encourage you to look at your calendar and schedule two self-care activities now.
​