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Well, we made it through Thanksgiving, and we are just a few short weeks away from Christmas. There seems to be so much to do and so little time to get it all done! So, as you begin to think about the many things you have left to do. Remember to keep your holiday expectations realistic. If it is not realistic you can and will place unreal expectations on yourself.
An example of this is knowing that your budget this year is not big, but you then charge up a storm. Then next month, you get the credit card bill, and the shock begins. You are not stuck with an unnecessary bill for the new year for items that you should not have brought in the old year. Thus, starting your new year off with unnecessary debt. Not good – Another example is that you went all out for Thanksgiving, and you are tired, but you overcommit to Christmas festivities. Remember that “NO” can be a good word when you are trying to stay True to the real reason for the season and not all the extra frills that are added along the way.
Having said all of that, it is time to organize yourself. The way that I tend to organize myself is by having a to do list. It is a wonderful way to navigate your many tasks. This list can be broken down by the different tasks that you have to accomplish. Remember to check off tasks once they are accomplished.
Sample Simple Holiday Checklist
- Complete your outdoor decorations
- Complete your indoor decorations
- Make a list of people that you need to purchase gifts for
- Shop for those people on your list for gifts
- Purchase just in case gifts (those are the gifts that you have for the unexpected gift exchanges)
- Make a Christmas menu
- Shop for items on your menu that you can store ahead of time
- Clean and prepare your home or apartment for guests
Note– The above simple Holiday Checklist is just a sample, you can add or remove what does not apply to you on the list. Remember the goal of a simple list is just that, to keep everything as simple as possible.
The Feeling of Accomplishment
Once you have completed your list, you are now able to go about completing each task on the list. Once you are done you should feel a sense of accomplishment. If you are not done on time at least you tried (smile).
Wrap Up
Setting realistic expectations based on budget, time and your ability to fit everything into the allotted time that is left.
Finally, the last few weeks in December always go by quickly and somehow it all seems to get done. So, try not to panic. Remember to enjoy the journey and the experience of another Christmas and the beauty of why we celebrate this awesome Holiday.
Until next week my readers. May you know and experience the true reason for the season and the gift of Christmas.
