Making a List and Checking it Twice
If you are the type of person who has it all together by this point in the holiday season, skip ahead to the merry-making. For the rest of us, keep reading.
Lots of people look forward to the holiday season all year long, being together with family and friends, yummy treats, favorite traditions, and so much more. But tucked into all that anticipation can be a boat load of stress. The holiday season, more than any other time of year, has us chasing elusive holiday perfection. Why we continue to twist ourselves into knots to create what we perceive to be the perfect holiday experience defies logical thinking. But those visions of sugar plums keep dancing in our heads. Of course, we want to make treasured and lasting memories. It’s what most people want. I want it, too. So, don’t worry, the desire to make the holiday magical and memorable won’t put you on the naughty list. Yes, there can be lots to do and seemingly not enough time to do it all. Taking an organized approach will help get you there. And since we are talking about the holiday season, we’ll take a cue from the jolly man himself by making a list and checking it twice.
1. First on the list, make a list. Include the most important of the holiday to-dos. While lots of tasks and obligations at this time of year all feel like priorities, take the time to choose the ones that deserve top billing. Narrow it down and focus on what matters most. It will give clarity to the season, for which you will be thankful.
2. Decorate only certain areas or rooms of the house. There’s no need to place tidbits of decorations in every room. Concentrate your efforts in the areas where most of the gathering and celebrating will take place to get the biggest bang for your decorating buck.
3. Likewise for cleaning. That’s not to say the entire house needn’t be clean. Of course, it should. But certain rooms and areas will be used more than others, especially with guests, so give those areas more of your attention. Remember, January is the month known for getting organized, so there will be plenty of time post-holiday for your cleaning and organizing projects.
4. Whether you are feeding a large holiday crowd, contributing a dish to a neighborhood potluck, or baking your favorite cookie for the annual cookie swap, planning is key. Review your recipes and take inventory of what you already have on hand. Make a grocery list and check it twice (!) to avoid a last-minute, late-night run back to the store for a forgotten ingredient. Bonus points for anything that can be made and frozen ahead of time.
5. Celebrate the joy of giving. As it is better to give than to receive, be intentional with your choices. This includes everything from the surprises for the kiddos under the tree, to the annual tips you give to the service providers in your life.
You may be thinking there is so much more to do than what is included here. Perhaps that is true as this short list covers some of the more common and basic activities inherent at this time of year. If you are feeling overwhelmed, refer to #1 on the list. Remember who and what is most important, and it will be sure to shine.
May your holidays be merry and bright!
Photo by Nick Fewings on Unsplash