With the holidays here, many people are finding that their schedules are, for lack of a better word, stuffed. Here’s some ideas about how to maximize your time during the holidays.
Between the increased demands of friends and family, with the ever present need to work and complete mundane tasks, it can seem like there is just too much to do in so short a time. What many people tend to forget in the frenetic holiday season though is that it is a time for family and friends, and that socializing is a key to human happiness.
Below are some helpful tips and tricks to help you get everything done this season, while still maintaining your sanity!
Tis’ the season to set goals
The first step in making yourself more productive around the holidays is to set goals. When dealing with work, write down what you need to have accomplished by the end of the year, and if you have projects that are a lower priority takes to the back burner. That way you can have more time to enjoy the season with your family, but still accomplish the goals you have set for yourself.
Give yourself permission to say no
Another great way to save time is to learn when to say no. Our calendars fill up around this time of year, and if a project or event doesn’t seem like a good use of your time, don’t feel obligated, just politely decline.
Time flies–and you’re the pilot
Also, break down how you spend your time. Keep tabs on how you are currently spending your time, and see if there are things you might be able to forgo for the next five weeks. Going to the gym 5 days a week is great, but if you went for three days every week during the holidays, that’s about six hours of extra time every week.
Keep a list
Make a list of what you would like to do this holiday season. If you want to go see the lighting ceremony, or take the kids to see Santa, make sure that you fit these in, and prioritize them. Be a magician with your schedule. Put down when you have to attend a friend’s holiday get-together or the Office Christmas Party, and schedule your holiday activities around things you absolutely can’t miss. Try excising activities that can wait until after the holidays, such as watching T.V.
Above all, try to keep in mind that, while the holiday season might seem a little hectic, with a little planning and some re-organization, you can still do everything you want to do and have a great holiday!
