This time of year, as special as it is, can cause additional stress in our lives. With so much to do during the holidays, such as attending or planning holiday events and parties, decorating, shopping, traveling or getting ready for your family to come; can often put us into a state of overwhelm.
The holidays are meant to be enjoyed so that you can focus on the real meaning of the holiday. It’s a time to celebrate life, family and friends.
I have put together 5 Simple Tips that will assist you in taking some of the “overwhelm” out of this holiday season.
1. Accept that it’s okay to work less hours during the holidays.
Many of us have so many obligations with our careers, businesses, commitments and all of the other activities this holiday brings. We often feel there is not enough time to get it all done. In fact, there are less working days in December and January, so, that is important to consider when making a plan to get your work done. Know that it’s okay to commit to taking on a lighter load this time of year. Embrace the fact that this is the time of year to spend quality time with your family, friends and celebrate the season.
2. Make a list of your must-dos.
Make a list of all the things you want to get done over the next few weeks. Then, go back and put a star next to the items that you have to get done. Next, prioritize all of the starred items starting with the most important. Those are the only items that you should be focusing your time on. The rest can wait until after the holidays.
3. It’s okay to ask for help.
Many of us, especially women, feel like we have to do everything ourselves. Think of where you can ask for help this holiday season to lighten the load a bit. For example: a) Instead of making all of the food yourself for your dinner party ask your guests to bring a dish. Most people are happy to help out and to show off their yummy recipes. b) Ask your kids to help with the cooking, cleaning or extra chores. Or you could hire a maid service to help you out. c) Don’t feel that you have to attend every holiday party that you get invited to. It’s okay to say no. If it goes from fun to overwhelm, this is your sign to just say no!
4. Say this affirmation daily; ”I have plenty of time to do what I need to do.”
It is important to start each day in quiet thought or meditation and gratitude. Then focus on what you would like your day to look like. What you want to accomplish and how, and what you want the outcome to be or look like. From that place of clarity and intention you can start working on your “to do list”. If any thoughts or feeling of stress or overwhelm show up; first, take a deep breath to relax and then state your affirmation, “I have plenty of time to do what I need to do.”(repeat as many times as it takes to start feeling lighter) Then continue taking action again.
5. Reflect on your accomplishments and set your intentions for the New Year.
The month of December is a great time to recall all of the things you’ve accomplished this past year and to then celebrate those accomplishments! Next, based on what you learned this past year, start thinking about what you can do differently that can make 2015 even more productive and successful. Write down all of your goals and intentions for the New Year. That is a sure-fire way to get pumped up!
Life is too short to live in a constant state of worry, overwhelm or panic. How you live your life is completely your choice. Why not decide to live in peace and joy? I hope these 5 tips will assist you in welcoming a little peace and joy in your life this holiday season and beyond.
Warm Wishes,
Megan Tull
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Megan Tull is an Entrepreneur Success Strategist, Transformational Leader, Wife and Mother. Megan has been an entrepreneur for over 25 years and has built 7 businesses from the ground up, so she knows a thing or two about business. She is currently writing a book, that encompasses much of the work she assists her clients with called “The Passion Belief Method – Own Your Value and Earn Your Worth in Business”. She’s excited to be fulfilling one of her life long dreams by writing this book. The book is expected to be out the end of 2014. Megan has been offering life-changing programs; teaching women entrepreneurs and business professionals how to create a highly profitable business doing what they love; all while living an authentic, joyful life, based on balance and self care. Get your FREE Passion to Profits Business Success Guide at www.accesstoyoursuccess.com