It’s no secret that the end of the year is hectic. We wait it out in anticipation and then suddenly we blink, December is here, and there isn’t enough time in a day to get everything done. I can feel my stress levels rising just thinking about it. Unfortunately, stress is no help in this scenario, so here are some practical tips to help you manage this crazy period. Sit back, wine in hand and discover just how to make it all work.
Managing Work
Things have certainly been a little different this year. You may still be working from home, or perhaps have just started heading back into the office every now and then. You may have never left! No matter which category you seem to fall into, work is no doubt piling up. There is something about the end of a year that makes everyone panic. Remember, your office is only going to be closed for a matter of weeks – if at all. This means that some of the work can wait.
- Look at what’s urgent and needs to be done before Christmas and write it down. Label the list ‘Must do’.
- Next, look at what you would like to achieve before Christmas and mark this. Label the list ‘Nice to do’.
- Finally, all the rest of the work waiting can go into that third list labelled ‘For January’.
Now you have everything properly prioritised, you are in a much clearer headspace to get started on it. If your ‘Must do’ list is far longer than you expected, consider having a chat with your boss about sharing the load. Schedule in a bath once a week to help manage that stress as well.
Managing Family
Now that work is under control, what about the family? Once again, the list here is endless. From planning Christmas lunch, to buying presents, wrapping them, attending school concerts, turning up to graduations and everything else. It seems every activity you do with the kids and every class you attend wants to celebrate in some way, and your diary is overflowing. Important tip: you can’t do it all. You may have to pass up an invitation or two and recognise your limits. You and the kids will burn out fast otherwise.
- Get a calendar that can go in a central place, like on the fridge.
- Add any new events on as they crop up. If there is a schedule clash, work out then and there with your partner if you can divide and conquer, or have to miss out on one.
- Keep a separate to do list on your phone of things you need to remember, such as making a concert outfit, buy presents, write cards, etc. List each one with a due date after it and label it in order. Refer to the list everyday to make sure you are staying on track and on top of things, and tick them off when they are done.
By writing everything down and chatting about it with your partner straight away, it ensures everyone is on the same page from the start. That way you can work together to manage it all. Try setting up some essential oils in your home to help with stress relief and boost your immunity to keep you healthy over the holidays.
Managing You
Finally, let’s not forget about you in all of this. Between the pull of work and busyness of family, you need to take care of yourself.
- Find five minutes everyday for you. Five minutes is all it takes to try a little meditation. Transcendental meditation is a simple way to find a little more balance in your life, which is exactly what you need at this time of the year. Start small, and remember even a little is better than nothing.
- If you have more time, look into Bikram Yoga. It has the power to improve your strength, help with weight lose, give you a better sleep, reduce stress and anxiety and so much more. It’s the perfect way to escape for a little and look after yourself.
- Find a hobby: having a hobby you love is another great way to unwind. It may sound counterintuitive adding to your already busy schedule, but making time for yourself is the perfect way to recharge to help you achieve more.
Remember, Christmas is a time to celebrate and make memories with those you love. If you are finding yourself too stressed or anxious, reach out and ask for help. This time of year just flies by, so take the time to soak up the little moments and remember just why you are doing all of this and what this time of year is all about.