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If the holidays represent a ramp up in the stress department and an overwhelming
to-do list.
First Things First ~ Decide What Matters Most To You!
Before whipping out your planner and making your to-do list,
set time aside to think thoughtfully and honestly about what makes the holidays special to you. Ask your family for their input as well. Then, together, agree upon what you will do to make this holiday season special for all, as well as what you will not do. (Now that you have your plan ~ make sure you stick to it and don’t guilt yourself into adding on as the season progresses!)
Now - Get Your Planner Out
Identify the system that works best for you - handwritten, computer, etc. Any large notebook will do with plenty of blank pages. Be sure to have a calendar handy as well.
Greeting Cards
Create your mail list on your computer if possible
Print out address labels
Purchase cards
Sign, stuff and mail
Create Your Gift List
Do this before shopping ~ it will save you time and money
Set a budget per gift
Shop online if possible ~ avoid those crowds at the mall (most sites offer free shipping around the holidays!)
Take advantage of free gift wrapping services
Make A List of Those You Want To Spend Your Holidays With
This may be the most important item on your list
Save your time for those you truly care about
Remember - going to parties because you’re supposed to go only adds to your stress
Determine in advance how you will politely but firmly stick to #2 in this category
Determine If You Want To Entertain
Build your guest list
Select your dates
Purchase cards
Determine what you will serve ~ make your shopping list at the same time
Like to Bake?
Decide in advance what you will bake
Build your shopping list
Don’t like to bake - buy ready-made!
Are You The One Traveling This Holiday Season?
Shop online for the best fares and buy your tickets now
Make arrangements for gifts that may need to be shipped in advance & pets that may need to be taken care of at home
Time to Use Your Calendar
Now that you know exactly what you need to do this holiday season
- write each step into your calendar so that you make sure each item is completed in a timely manner.
The Holiday Season sometimes results in frustration, guilt and happiness when we get caught up in what we’re
"supposed to do". The greatest gift you can give to yourself and to your family is to identify what is really important and let go of the rest.
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MEET Miriam (VIN) KLEIN
Vin is a personal organizer who helps her clients simplify and reduce stress by
managing their time, space, activities and papers.
Used by Permission: Miriam Klein -
YourOrganizingLifeline.com | 3265 Whitney Ave. #4 | Hamden | CT | 06518-2100.
Contact Vin: vin@yourorganizinglifeline.com
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