I was in New York this past weekend and it is a magical time of year. The store windows are gorgeous, the tree at Rockefeller Center is breathtaking and the buzz in the air is exciting.
Sometimes we forget the joy of the season. So here are some tips to keep in mind when you forget.
- Remember – Martha Stewart isn’t coming to your house this holiday – so relax!
- Carve out time for yourself – as least 30 minutes each day – to read a book, take a nap or bubble bath, or listen to music. Yes, you do have time for this!
- Reexamine your traditions/expectations – do you really want to send the cards, create a bakery, or string 20 boxes of lights outside your house?
- Avoid long lines and large crowds – shop online, either during the year or in off hours.
- Include others in your “to do’s” – delegate activities to friends or family when planning a party or doing your holiday chores.
- Give yourself permission to get out of your routine – don’t beat yourself up for enjoying the extra glass of eggnog or sleeping in a little late.
- Plan, prioritize, and schedule what you want to do to avoid getting overwhelmed. Be willing to let go of some of the list.
- Set and honor a budget to avoid after-holiday debt. Consider swapping services rather than buying lavish gifts (i.e. – give a massage, help to clean a closet or basement, or offer to baby-sit).
- Decide what is important to you this holiday and honor it – Faith? Family? Friends? Balance? Calm? Organization? Spiritual contentedness?
- Enjoy yourself – have fun and laugh!!