During these final couple of weeks of 2024, life can feel like a whirlwind. With holiday parties, year-end work assignments due, holiday shopping, cooking, decorating, and extra time spent with friends and family, it can feel like a lot to balance. Here are some ways to prioritize and plan ahead…
Prioritize
We’ve written a lot about it, but having a daily to-do list can be extremely helpful. Every morning take pen to paper and write down what work and personal commitments you want to accomplish. The actual process of physically writing a list can help quiet your mind and make some of the bigger tasks you need to accomplish feel more achievable. Be realistic and don’t necessarily expect yourself to complete everything identified. Even if you only knock out a couple of the tasks, consider that a win and a move in the right direction.
Time Management
As you may already do with work, also include your personal obligations on a calendar to prevent schedule overload and assist with better management of your time. It’s also important to establish work boundaries during the holiday season, especially if you are a remote worker. In an article on Forbes, they discuss this writing, “Recognize that the holiday period is inherently unpredictable. Build flexibility into your planning, allowing yourself the grace to adjust work hours or reschedule commitments as unexpected events arise. Equally important is establishing clear boundaries between professional and personal time. Communicate these boundaries proactively to colleagues and family members, setting explicit expectations about your availability for work-related matters versus family gatherings.”
Let Go of Perfectionism
Trying to do everything to make the holiday season perfect for everyone around you can put a lot of pressure on you and result in burnout. Instead, think about what is truly important to you this holiday season. In the same Forbes article, they write, “It’s important to be aware of your limits and to decline additional commitments that could lead to overwhelm. Instead, concentrate on what truly matters during the holiday season, whether that involves honoring cherished traditions or spending meaningful time with loved ones.”
Take Time for Yourself
Carving out time for self-care is also crucial to avoid feeling burnt out and resentful. Make sure you are continuing to find time in your schedule for movement, getting enough sleep, and eating as well as you can amid the holiday festivities. In an article on Psychiatry, they also discuss the importance of getting outside writing, “Even if you’re not a big winter sports enthusiast, getting outside and some fresh air and exposure to sunlight can help relax you and lift your mood. Many people struggle with some feelings of depression during the winter months with fewer hours of sunlight and more time spent indoors. Walking outside in the sun can be an effective centering and calming tool. Numerous studies have pointed to the mental health benefits of spending time in nature, including stress relief, better concentration, lower levels of inflammation and improved mental energy. Learn more about nature therapy.”