Black Friday. Cyber Monday. Giving Tuesday. The holiday season is clearly upon us, and the holiday season brings with it a lot of extra things to do. There’s the shopping, the wrapping, the baking and the entertaining. All of these activities can bring joy, but also stress into our lives. Following is a list of ideas and strategies to help manage the added demands of the holidays, so that you can relax and enjoy time with family and friends.
1. Set realistic expectations so that by celebration time, you are not too tired to participate. A perfectly set table and cooked meal won’t mean anything if you don’t have the energy to enjoy it.
2. Delegate tasks and ask for help. Allow people to participate and graciously accept their offer to assist.
3. Create an overall plan with timeframes on your calendar and keep it visible. When you need to make changes, and you will, it is easier to see how the changes will impact other tasks and move things around.
4. Prioritize the activities you need to complete using the WIN Strategy-WHAT’S IMPORTANT NOW. By prioritizing tasks, you ensure that you will be able to complete those things that are the most important to you.
5. Create daily plans based on your overall plan (strategy 3). Once you have the PLAN for the DAY, review it and double check it just to make sure it’s realistic. Avoiding holiday burnout is essential.
6. Be flexible. Be prepared for the unexpected and know that if you work your plan, all will be okay. Think WIN and cross things off that are not a priority.
7. Take a deep breath as you transition between tasks. Imagine you are doing Tai Chi; smooth movements and a consistent breathing pattern will increase your efficiency as you check items off your list.
8. EAT, SLEEP and HYDRATE. These three activities are important for brain function and often get overlooked as schedules get busier.
9. Practice stress management techniques. Some examples include meditation, strength training, yoga, reading, etc. Choose what works for you; there isn’t one answer for everyone. Schedule time for the technique that works for you.
10. Give the gift of time. The holidays can be very stressful for those on a tight budget. Offer to help someone complete something this holiday season. Your time is a priceless gift.
Most importantly, keep your focus on enjoying the holiday season with friends and family. At the end of the day, you and the people in your life is what the holidays are about.
Wishing you and yours a happy and healthy holiday season!!
