Money, gift-giving, health and workload can cause holiday stress.
But what can we do about it? Last Wednesday, the OrganizingLA Blog wrote about the Top 10 Areas of Holiday Stress, which included selecting gifts, holiday budgeting, dressing party-appropriate and the desire to maintain holiday traditions. My friend Sarah Murphy, who is also a Southern California small business partner with FranklinCovey, shared some tips with me on ways to have LESS stress this season, whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah or Kwanzaa. I know a good Koreatown Thai massage isn't on this list, and I'll ask Sarah if that will be making it to the list for next time.
10 Tips For An Organized, Less Stressful Holiday
1. Determine the people and things you value most during the holiday season.
After you have identified what is most important to you, set goals as to how you will spend your time around that which you value. Break large goals down into smaller, less-daunting tasks so you don’t get overwhelmed.
2. Prioritize your most important goals.
Keep a prioritized list of your most important goals in a place where you can refer to it often and review the list as you make decisions. When you have two competing priorities refer to your list to help your decision-making.
3. Keep your key information in one system and carry it with you.
Choose a planning tool that lets you keep all your key information in one place including your appointments, tasks, contacts, gift list, holiday budget, gift receipts, health and fitness tracker, etc. Carry the tool with you at all times, so you have easy access to this vital information.
4. Plan for 20 minutes at the start of each week.
Before your week starts take 20 minutes to sit down in a quiet place free from interruptions to plan your upcoming week. Review your most important goals for the season and plan your time accordingly. Identify what you must do both personally and professionally during the week, and enter those goals, tasks and appointments into your planning tool first. Set specific deadlines.
5. Plan for 10 minutes daily.
Before your day starts, spend 10 minutes in a quiet place to plan your day. Review your most important goals, tasks and appointments for the day. Be realistic with your time. Celebrate accomplishments and track your progress toward that which is most important to you this season.
6. Focus on getting work done so you can take time off.
While at work, focus on getting the job done so that when you leave work, you can focus on your personal life. Plan your work projects around that which is most important and do those things first so you can leave work on time. While with family and friends, focus on spending quality time with them and on renewing yourself.
7. Learn to say “No” nicely.
Ask yourself, “What is the wisest and best use of my time right now?” Don’t overload yourself with too many commitments at one time. Be sure to keep commitments you have already made but learn to say “No,” nicely, so you can focus your time and energy on that which you value more than the opportunity at hand.
8. Create a holiday budget and stick to it.
Identify how much you have to spend for the holidays and how much you will spend on each person for whom you want to buy. As you shop, keep your budget with you and track your spending so you aren’t surprised when you open your bills. Budget for an unforeseen circumstance, such as the perfect gift that is no longer on sale or someone you forgot to place on your list.
9. Make a shopping plan before you go.
Don’t shop aimlessly. Decide beforehand which stores you will visit and how long you will spend at each store. Be realistic and allow for travel, weather, and holiday crowds. Follow your plan as closely as possible so you don’t get sidetracked, but be flexible enough to enjoy your shopping experience.
10. Take time for self-renewal and personal well-being.
Don’t get so caught up in staying organized and getting everything done that you forget to enjoy the season. Schedule time for exercise and healthy eating. If you find yourself feeling stressed or frustrated, take time for self-renewal and do something that helps you relax and refocus on what is most important: take a walk and look at the holiday lights, go to a holiday movie or concert, go caroling with family or friends, meditate by the fire, and volunteer to serve others.
So, we're curious to hear from OrganizingLA Blog readers-- you've read the Tips. Have any of your own you'd like to share? Use the comment form below.
Related posts: Top 10 Areas of Holiday Stress and What Can Be Done About It
