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Help for the Holidays - Starting Early
By Polly | November 9, 2005
Yesterday we talked about coping with the holiday madness and planning early. Today let’s talk about starting early. I know what you are saying….”I don’t feel like thinking about Christmas…it’s not even Thanksgiving” or “Hanukkah is still 6 weeks away, I have plenty of time”…. I say things like this to myself all the time and end up regretting them because I don’t have a lot of time and 6 weeks goes by very fast. So like me do your best to fight these thoughts and start early. Here are some tips to help make it easier.
Now that you have your list done (see yesterday’s post), you need to actually start working on some of the things on the list. Everyday make a commitment to work on at least one item on the list. Some items will take more than a day to complete, so just do a little bit every day. Start with those items needing to get done the soonest and the ones requiring the most effort and time (like gift shopping). Use a notebook or Christmas Holiday Planner to keep you organized and everything in one place. When you run into obstacles and don’t accomplish something you set out to do, don’t get frustrated and stop. Take a break and finish up again tomorrow. If you stick to this routine, before long everything on your list will get done and you will actually have time to enjoy the holidays. Another tip is to delegate! This year I am delegating the family Christmas Letter to my oldest daughter. She loves to write and will do a great job. I will give her some thoughts of what to include and of course edit, but will rely on her to write the letter. I’m sure our family and friends will enjoy the new perspective of a 9 year old and I suddenly feel a little less stressed. So remember, plan eary and start early so you have time to enjoy the little things in life. Your kids will thank you later.
Related Entries:
Help for the Holidays
Help for the Holidays - Avoid Overscheduling
Holiday Survival Guide, Part I
How to Keep the Spirit of Giving Alive in your Family
Gardening with Children
Topics: Family Life Tips |