How to SIMPLIFY the Holidays

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Ahh…it’s the Tuesday before Thanksgiving. For me, this week signals the true start of the holiday season, where I move from planning to doing. As we enter this season, I wanted to share some simple ideas to help you simplify the hectic parts of the holidays, so you can truly enjoy the most meaningful aspects of the season.

 

SIMPLIFY the Holidays:

 

S – is for START with the end in mind. The holidays are loaded with not only a mile-long to-do list, but also with a lot of emotions and expectations. Decide now how you’d like the holidays to be for you. How do you want to feel? What would make this year’s holiday season the best ever? Ask your family to share their thoughts, too. Their answers may just surprise you.

 

I – is for INSPIRATION STATEMENT. Distill your ideas about what you want for the season into a single INSPIRATION STATEMENT or word. Then, put your statement or word someplace where you will see it often throughout the season. My statement is, “The Joy is in the Journey.” It reminds me not to get bogged down in unimportant details that stress me out and steal my joy. It also reminds me to enjoy the entire season, instead of waiting to have fun until Christmas morning, when my to-do list is completely checked off. 

 

M – is for MINIMIZE and MAXIMIZE. MINIMIZE the aspects of the holidays that stress you out or don’t really add to the overall reason for the season for you and your family members. This will create space to MAXIMIZE, or do more of, those things that truly fill your heart with joy.

 

P – is for PLAN. And…

 

L – is for LIST. Write down your holiday to-do LIST on a piece of paper or capture it electronically. Then, pull out your calendar and create a simple PLAN by assigning your tasks to specific days throughout the holiday season. For example, decide what day you will decorate your home, get the tree, shop and wrap gifts, and bake. Doing this will give you tremendous relief and make your holidays that much happier.

 

I – is for IMPLEMENT. IMPLEMENT your plan, focusing on one task at a time. 

 

F – is for FLEXIBLE. As you carry out your plan and do the tasks on your to-do list, remain FLEXIBLE. Give yourself permission to move tasks around if necessary and even to delete something that seemed fun while you were planning, but doesn’t sound fun when it comes time to do it.

 

Y – is for YOU. Most of all, remember to take good care of YOUrself throughout the season. Get as much rest as possible, and make sure you take time to recharge your batteries by doing things that energize and restore you. Take your dog for a walk, or go to yoga class. Spend some quiet time reading a favorite book, or meditate. Remember, the best gift you can give your loved ones this time of year is your own joy and happiness. So prioritize YOU for the happiest season for everyone you love.

 

Happy simplifying and happy Thanksgiving!

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