Starting Now on Your Holiday To-Do List? Here’s How to Minimize Stress and Enjoy the Season

The holidays are a time filled with joy, celebration, and cherished moments. However, they can also bring stress and an overwhelming sense of urgency. The key to staying calm and truly enjoying the season is to start on your holiday to-do list early. By making a plan and pacing yourself, you can avoid last-minute pressure and embrace the magic of the season stress-free. Whether it’s sending cards, baking cookies, or calling a loved one each day, these tips will help you stay organized and relaxed.

1. Start Early and Prioritize Your Tasks

Begin by jotting down everything you’d like to accomplish. Divide your list into categories like ‘Must Do,’ ‘Would Like to Do,’ and ‘Optional.’ Focusing on the essentials first ensures that if unexpected events come up, the most important tasks are already taken care of. Starting early gives you the luxury of time, allowing you to tackle each task without feeling rushed.

2. Create a Gentle, Realistic Schedule

With your priorities in place, map out a relaxed timeline. Assign one or two tasks to each day or week to spread out your responsibilities. For instance, pick one day for writing holiday cards, another for baking cookies, and another for catching up with a loved one. This pacing keeps you from feeling overwhelmed and ensures you enjoy each activity.

3. Use Simple Reminders to Stay on Track

A calendar or a list pinned to your refrigerator can serve as a friendly nudge to keep you on track. Gentle reminders can help maintain your routine and prevent a pile-up of last-minute duties. This approach not only helps you stay consistent but also makes each task feel more manageable, leaving you with peace of mind.

4. Celebrate Each Small Step

Every time you check something off your list, take a moment to appreciate it. Finished addressing those holiday cards? Wonderful! Pour yourself a cup of tea and enjoy a quiet moment. Recognizing your progress keeps you motivated and reminds you that the holidays are about enjoyment, not just tasks.

5. Be Flexible and Kind to Yourself

Remember, plans can change, and that’s okay. The goal is to minimize stress, not to create more. If a task takes longer than expected or needs to be postponed, don’t be discouraged. Adjust your plan and move forward with ease. The true spirit of the holidays is about connection and joy, not perfection.

Starting your holiday preparations now helps you stay one step ahead and ensures that your to-do list feels light and manageable. With thoughtful planning and a touch of self-kindness, you can enjoy a season filled with warmth and joy.

I made a video about this last year, highlighting ways to get ahead without feeling stressed for the holidays. Give it a watch the video here for more in-depth advice... and a bit of commiseration.

That about does it for this blog entry. I certainly hope I was able to help you in some way. Please do let me know if you have any tips of your own to share. Until next time, as always, stay Sensational! 🤍, Lois