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Eight Time Management Tips for the Holidays From DDLS

It’s that time of year! Work, shopping, parties, family and the list goes on and on.  This joyous and festive time of year can very easily turn into overload, stress and overwhelm you if you don’t manage your time effectively.  The following tips are designed to give you the freedom and balance you need to fully enjoy the holiday season.

1. Make a List of Everything that Needs to be Done

The list should include the obvious items like parties, shopping, work, etc. and also include the other items not ordinarily found on a ‘to-do’ list (watch TV, spend time with kids, quiet time with your significant other). Listing everything is the key to balance this time of year.

2. Schedule Everything

Schedule everything from your list in actual time on your calendar.  Pick a start time, how long it will take and then a completion time (i.e.  Monday 6:30pm-8:00pm dinner with your special someone). When everything is scheduled on your calendar you’ll be able to relax knowing that everything that needs to be done is scheduled to be taken care of.

3. Follow Your Schedule

This is a critical one.  Follow the plan you just created.  You’ll have those times when ‘You just don’t feel like it!’ - But follow it anyway!  Getting past that moment of not feeling like it is your doorway to a holiday season of having everything you want.

4. Have Fun Naming the Items in Your Schedule

When you name an item in your schedule, name it something that inspires you.  You could write ‘Toy shopping for Sienna and Jack’ or ‘Giving Sienna and Jack a fun and memorable Christmas’.

5. When You Don't Follow Your Schedule, Reschedule Open Items Immediately

If you miss something in your schedule, simply reschedule it.

6. Include Something Nice for Yourself Every Day

Whether it is some quiet time watching TV, a massage or something else you enjoy.  Schedule yourself something nice every day.

7. Remind Yourself 'WHY!' You are Doing Everything

When following your plan remind yourself this is your plan and your way of having everything you want this holiday season.  You can even write yourself a note that you can read every morning about following your schedule for the day.

8. Have Fun!

It’s the holiday season, have fun and enjoy it! 

 

Lou Markstrom is a Trainer dedicated to having others reach their maximum potential.