31 days left til 2014 and there is so much to do! Cleaning up from Thanksgiving dinner or the traveling over this long weekend seems like a sad start to the holiday month of December. Shopping, cooking, wrapping, decorating and outings all seem like they will sap the season of its promise of peace and joy!
If you feel that it is hard to absorb all the extra trappings of December into the normal workings of your busy life, here are some steps to take to keep it together!
1. Write it down. One big happy list of all the things you feel you have to do. Everything! You can use your calendar as a guide for events to prepare for. If you celebrate Christmas, include the decorating, gift buying, wrapping, shipping, etc. If you send holiday cards, include all steps (buy cards, write, address envelopes, buy postage). Plan the travel and outings or at least the dates you have open to get out and explore. Write it all down.
2. Delegate. This list might look enormous, and it probably is! This is where you share with your family the scope of things and ask for help. If you have all the tasks written out, including dates, start asking kids and spouses to choose some of the work. Write it down and give due dates. Another option is to consider hiring help. Search for Personal Assistants or Concierge services to do wrapping, shopping, cooking preparation, and decorating. Hire extra cleaning services to get you through each week. If planning is your weak point, a friend or a Professional Organizer might be the support you need to get it all down.
3. Simplify. Ask yourself: Can I do less? What can I just decide not to do? Can I double up with another family to share meals, plan outings, shop? Can I do it differently? If time is very limited, do as much online shopping as you can. Plan your grocery store trips to be as efficient as possible and as few as possible. Doing less than your own standards or expectations may be difficult, but cutting back on the scale of your holidays can be the best gift you ever give yourself!
4. Plan. With your decreased list of to do's, your shared tasks and and your calendar in front of you, start setting target dates for all the tasks on your list. Evaluate whether these will be things you must do during the day, at lunch or right after work, or something you can do early in the morning or late at night. This process will guide your steps through the weeks. You won't be worried about dropping the ball because all your tasks and activities are thought out and the preparation is expected.
5. Don't forget about yourself! Look through your calendar and ensure there are periods of rest. Taking 20-30 minutes a day might be enough, but a few hours a week for exercise or other self-care are critical to keeping your mind at rest and emotions positive.
6. Imagine the outcome. When the stress builds up, take a deep breath and think about what you are working toward. A fun and happy meal. A cheerful morning around the Christmas tree. A rollicking party. Smiles from those who open your letters and packages. Whatever it is, imagine the results you expect from your efforts, and let those positive thoughts keep you motivated and balanced through December.
Let me know if you need help!
