Time Management Tips for the Holidays

How to get more work Done

 You may be experiencing a Time Crunch right now as you get ready for holiday celebrations in the next few days. Preparing for guests, Christmas dinner, last minute shopping, festive attire and decorations can be pretty overwhelming. I am switching into my “home economist” mode (that was my job before I became a jewelry designer) to give you a few pointers so you can get it all done.

1. Decide right now what you will wear for the next week. Anything that needs repair, ironing, or cleaning can be done ahead of time instead of right before it’s time to go. That includes your jewelry. I learned from my friend, Bobbie that Dawn dish soap will safely clean and brighten jewelry in a snap. Indeed, I thought she had become engaged, her diamond ring looked so sparkly and new!
2. I’m a big fan of lists. Whether you put it on a piece of paper, use a computer, or dictate to your phone, record everything you must do before the big occasion.  For large projects, list each tiny step in the process. Lists help to get things off your mind and calm you down. Just don’t forget to look at your list!
3.  After making your list, prioritize. If there are things on the list that don’t matter that much, put them last, or leave them off completely.
4.  Do you procrastinate? Just getting started with one tiny task will often be all you need to get going.
5. If you are having a party, use backward planning. Figure out what foods you can make ahead of time and/or freeze. Some things must be done at the last minute. Divide the list into days, and put each item on your calendar.
6. Assign a few tasks to others, if possible. Time is money, and money is time.  Both are valuable. Can some tasks be bought? For instance, hire a cleaning service, purchase some foods which are already prepared, pay someone to decorate your house.
7. Order online instead of going to the store. Even groceries can be delivered these days. It might be too late for Christmas gifts, but keep it in mind for next year. (And don’t forget to order from earthbeatdesigns.com)!
8. Lastly, reward yourself when you accomplish a goal. It doesn’t have to be an expensive gift. It could be something as simple as checking it off your list, putting your feet up, going for a walk, or having a cup of coffee. Taking a short break will energize you so that you can keep going. Research has shown that downtime increases creativity.

I hope the above will help reduce stress, so that you can Sparkle and Shine while spending time with the most important people in your life.  I wish you Happy Celebrations!