Tip Tuesday: Ways to Avoid Procrastination This Holiday Season

The countdown is on. Thanksgiving is over, and the turkey leftovers have been devoured. We are less than a month away from Christmas! As much as we try to plan ahead, it always seems that we run out of time or put big to-dos on the backburner. This holiday season, say goodbye to procrastination and hello to keeping it simple. Below are a few key action words to keep in mind to help you on your merry way.

1. Plan – That’s right, pull out those calendars! Examine how many events you are hosting at your house. Is there a way to plan the same meal or snacks for each occasion? If you can use the same menu, it will help you plan the grocery list and serving pieces for your event. Sounds minor but every bit of time and planning you do now will help on the day or the event. The subsequent events will be a no-brainer if you can use the same menu and items.
2. Wrap – I don’t mind wrapping gifts, but I really dislike adding bows and ribbons. My solution for this is to avoid wrapping paper and use gift bags! Stock up on assorted bags so you can cut your time down to the bare minimum by placing the gift in a bag and topping it off with tissue paper. Viola! A pretty gift, and bonus points that you don’t have to find a place to store your wrapping paper!
3. Simplify – If you find that you are procrastinating, it might be because you are overdoing the holidays. Take a step back, and only do what you really love. Holidays are supposed to be a time to relax, but if you are stressed out over getting the house decorated, planning the perfect meal, and buying tons of gifts for everyone, you are missing the point. Decide now to simplify the stressful parts of the holiday, and focus instead on the meaning of the day and spending time with friends and family.

I hope you will be able to enjoy yourself this holiday season. Avoid procrastination – and they overzealous to-do list – by evaluating what makes you happy and honoring yourself.

Photo: Kaboom Pics