Tis the season to rush around, spend too much money, gain too much weight and go crazy right? Wrong! The key is to prioritize, delegate and enjoy!
Week #1:
1.Make a list of everything you would like to do before your guests arrive or you have to travel. Prioritize your list by placing the following numbers next to each item (1 = have to do 2 = love to do 3 = not that important). Put a date on each item to ensure you will have time to get the items done. Feel free to cross the #3’s off your list. Don’t stress about it – let it go!
2. Feel like you need several people to get it all done? Delegate your list! Get your friends and family involved – they would love to help you decorate, shop, cook or just put stamps on the cards. Don’t forget you can hire people to do a lot too: cleaning, catering, shopping, wrapping, decorating and more.
3. Write down every event or appointment on your calendar. Set alarms on your phone for reminders. This time of year there seem to be functions at unusual times like the pageant at your daughter’s school at 11:30 on a Wednesday morning.
4. If Christmas cards are on your list (especially photo cards) – get those ordered ASAP. Make sure you order them with your address pre-printed on the envelope to save you time. Some companies will even address and mail them for you if you send your list.
Week #2
1. If you haven’t started shopping, now is the time. I highly recommend online shopping to save you time. If gift wrapping is an issue, have the gifts wrapped by the store. I also recommend gift cards for special events like a concert, restaurant or movie so you can spend time with your loved ones instead of contributing to clutter. Offer them a night out, babysitter, maid service or spa day. The gift of time is priceless and memorable.
2. If you are hosting a meal or party, plan your menu and shopping list. Or better yet, call a caterer. Either way, you don’t have to plan anymore than 5-6 items (appetizer, entrée, sides and dessert). Keep your table setting simple (no you don’t have to put out the nice dishes and silver to throw a great party anymore). Use an app or your TV to provide music and save you time creating the perfect holiday mix. Keep it even simpler by throwing a potluck or cookie swap.
Week #3
1. If you opted to not call a caterer, time to shop for food and cook if you’re throwing a shin dig. If you are going to a holiday party, it’s always nice to bring a bottle of wine or favorite baked good.
2. If you’re traveling, make sure the laundry is done in time to pack. Instead of trying to bring a bunch of presents, either ship gifts ahead of time or send a nice gift basket or holiday decoration.
3. If you have people staying with you over the holidays, give yourself the gift of a cleaning service the day before your guests arrive. Plan down time each day for yourself and your guests. Go for a walk or go to a movie to give everyone some time to relax.
Most importantly, enjoy your holidays. This season should be about friends, family and fun. Don’t forget to make some time for your self each day to close your eyes and breathe.
I wish you a Very Merry Holiday!