There are many activities happening throughout the holidays, and it’s easy to get overwhelmed and not know where to start. However, with an organized schedule and a few simple steps, it is easy to make the holiday season less stressful and more fun!

Calendar

Log your holiday activities and important class events/testing dates on a calendar. It is helpful to have a large, magnetic dry erase calendar posted on your fridge for easy viewing and reminders.

 

Include plans for relaxation! It’s important to see when you’ll have areas of downtime. Write “Downtime” on your calendar so you don’t over-schedule yourself. This will enable you to enjoy the season more fully and not get stressed with too many activities planned.

 

Set deadlines for tasks on your calendar, such as sending holiday cards and baking. Be sure to give yourself some flexibility in case something comes up that prevents you from meeting the deadline.

 

If you are traveling during the holidays, note the days when you will be gone on the calendar. Make arrangements for your pet and ask someone to watch your residence while you are away.

 

Once your schedule is set for the holiday season, you’ll be able to make good choices about what you can and cannot commit to.


Décor

Even a small amount of décor can make your place seem festive. Many stores have holiday décor on sale in November and December, so grab some garland or holiday florals and greenery and add a string of mini lights or flameless candles to set a festive mood for minimal cost.

 

Create a Gift List & Set a Budget
Make a list of everyone you will buying gifts for this season. List the recipient, amount you expect to spend, idea for the gift and the final gift. Having gift ideas in mind for everyone on your list allows you to take advantage of sales and deals to stay on budget.Starting your list ahead of time gives you time to think through what the recipients will really enjoy receiving rather than waiting until the last minute and choosing whatever you can find in a rush, just to give a gift.

If you are making any gifts yourself, make a list of what you are making, who you are making the gift for, the supplies you need, how much you need to spend, and when you need to start and finish the projects.

Make a Bucket List
Make a list of places you want to visit, activities you want to complete and traditions you want to enjoy during the holidays. Some ideas include: 

·      Write letters to overseas military

·      Bake cookies for classmates

·      Create and share your own ornaments

·      Spread holiday cheer and volunteer at a soup kitchen, senior citizen facility or animal shelter

·      Watch holiday movies

·      Drive through the Lights of LIFE spectacular holiday display

 

Take the time to get organized before the holiday rush, and you can enjoy everything the season has to offer with less stress and more merriment!