Thriving in the Holidays - Part 1: Mind

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Betsy_McGuire]Betsy McGuire
When I first thought of doing this series, the first title that popped into my head was "Surviving the Holidays". I realized fairly quickly that this title did not represent my intentions for the series. I don't want people to "white-knuckle" it through the holidays. I want people to thrive in the holidays and enjoy the season as much as possible. So, to work on that change of perspective, the number one thing I can recommend for the holidays is to get organized. Running around last minute to take care of things we've forgotten is not too enjoyable. Unfortunately, it happens to many of us because we get consumed by the busyness of the season. Having holiday details organized and printed out will free your mind and allow it to concentrate on more enjoyable things like enjoying your family and the season.
Here's a quick step-by-step guide to getting organized for the holidays:
Step 1: Print out blank calendars for November and December.
Step 2: Put on your calendar any of your normal activities such as meetings, etc. through the end of the year.�
Step 3: Add any seasonal activities to your calendar.
a) parties
b) programs
c) concerts
d) religious services
e) family traditions
f) volunteer activities
g) travel dates
Step 4: Make lists
a) list all the people you'll buy gifts for
-include gift ideas and a budget for each person
b) list all the cookies, candy, buffet items, and treats you'll be making
-gather the recipes
c) make menus if you're hosting any gatherings
-gather the recipes
d) if you're traveling this season, list out any applicable information
Step 5: Your should now be able to look at your calendar and see where the activities listed here will fit. Add them.
a) baking
b) shopping for gifts
c) decorating
d) wrapping gifts
e) sending cards
f) shopping for food
One last thing. Look over your calendar and question every activity on it. If there is anything on your calendar that isn't necessary, get rid of it. Simplify as much as possible. Ask yourself if you really need to make 15 types of cookies or if you need to get gifts for all the neighbors. Just thoughtfully consider all of it. When you are down to your bare minimum, you're ready to enjoy the season.
Betsy McGuire invites you to visit http://www.chickpeawellness.com/ and sign up to receive her mind, body, and spirit blog the day entries are made. You can also "like" Chickpea Wellness on Facebook and receive new articles on your wall.
Copyright 2011 Chickpea Wellness, LLC
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Thriving-in-the-Holidays---Part-1:-Mind&id=6691510] Thriving in the Holidays - Part 1: Mind