The holidays are approaching fast and furiously. I noticed some retailers having their Christmas displays up along with the Halloween displays to get a jump-start. The only problem I see with this tactic is that people become stressed earlier and earlier.
There is so much to do and so little time. Many people have found ways to simplify the holidays. I personally refuse to alter too much from the traditions that I grew up with. Added to the mix of keeping the energy up some of us are having to adjust to the time change. It is getting darker out earlier and we go to work in the dark and come home in the dark. This routine doesn’t exactly make you feel energetic after a days work. If you are going to get in all the things that you want to do before the holidays you have to stay focused to stay on course. For me this means making up a “To Do List”.
Rather than just jumping into things from all angles it is worth taking the time to sit quietly and list out the things that you want to accomplish by order of priority. What can you do a month ahead of time, a week ahead and a day ahead. Who can you enlist to help you? What are the things that are the “extra nice to have’s” vs. those that you really need to accomplish. As a personal example, I know that I would love to make little home-made gifts for everyone that comes through our door this season. This for me is a true “nice to have” . However, if I stay focused and begin now and do a little toward the project each day, I will be on course to make this a reality. Additionally, I don’t doubt that my guests will appreciate my efforts, but I also know that if I don’t make gifts from my own little hands, they will not suffer because of it.
Much like preparing for a big meeting or event at work, you need to follow some basic project planning tips and tricks. Make a List (a project plan) determine where your resources are (what tools and equipment do you have or need) and determine who your resources are to help accomplish the task.
Start now to get focused and then stay on course. The holidays will be less stressful and more enjoyable.
My daughter held a garage sell this weekend. It was on a Sunday because she had to work on Saturday. She works in retail and like many other businesses, she has seen a drop in the amount of money people are spending on clothing. Of course this has had an affect on the number of hours she is scheduled to work and therefore her pocketbook is feeling a bit light. Since she has a closet full of cloths that she never wears it seemed like a good idea to sell some of them and make a bit of extra money.
I was at my chiropractor this morning and as he adjusted and then rubbed menthol smelling cream into my neck, he let me know that I had a nice sized knot in my shoulders. He then went on to tell me that I hold all my stress inside while being so personable and bubbly on the outside. I personally don’t think I am bubbly, I just like people and make the choice to be happy and see things as good and exciting. I like to talk and engage with people. That’s not so bad is it? After all, I am a coach!
I came across an interesting website the other day and thought I would share will all of you. Our health is so important. Now with the H1N1 flu and just plain old flu season is upon us, we can all benefit from a little refresher on how to stay healthy.
