Stress free Xmas - We're on a mission!

Last night's segment on RelieF with Gisèle Quenneville, was all about reducing the dreadful stress the holidays bring along.  To watch the segment click here.  Go to 14'48".  Here's what we talked about...

The secret to perfect Christmas happiness is simple...Start now!

The beauty of this year's Christmas is that YOU'VE STILL GOT TIME!  enjoy the process, spend wisely, show your creativity, and get in the holiday spirit! Any questions or challenges, email me! 

 

Here are a few tricks...

Great gifts by Cathy Thorne on Etsy - http://on.fb.me/vI2MRS

Lists are the ultimate organizational tool.  It's simple and effective.  I keep several of them at any given time. If you were to only write one list this holiday, it would only make sense for it to be about gifting.  It will save you time and money, and who can pass on that?

La Gift Liste - A proper list (or several) will help you stay on track with gift buying while keeping you within your budget. Write your list in a cahier - sheets of paper get lost (trust me).  Your gift list should have 3 columns with the following headings:

1. Who? List everyone, personal and professional.
2. How much per person? Establish your budget from the get go!
3. What to gift? If you don't know, leave this area blank but if you do, write down ideas or specific gifts.  Writing things down will help you remember what you are looking for and being focused saves us time!

Does your list include teachers, babysitters, coaches, good neighbours and other professionals that are good to you and yours all year?  We'll talk about how to come up with thoughtful gifts tomorrow.  You don't need to brake the bank but you do need to take this opportunity to say Thank you!  Now, let's get cracking and write the gift list out!

Word to the wise:  Add a few generic last minute gifts to cover an acquaintance or long lost friend (or two) who did not make the ‘A’ list and who will inevitably arrive at your door, gift in hand. Happens to me every year! If you’ve got an idea or two for these unknown recipients, add it to the list. I’ve already stashed 5 boxes of gourmet chocolates that are wrapped (thank you Costco) and ribboned, a blank label in place so I can quickly add a last minute name and, presto – I’m ready for the inevitable.

Other Lists to have at hand:

 

• Menus
• Grocery lists
• Things to buy (clothing & shoes, sheets and towels for guests, you name it - be specific, it will save you money)
• Travelling list (more on this soon)
• Gifts to sent out in the mail (and by when)
• List of batteries needed for new toys
• Mailing list (does it need to be up-dated?)
• Place special orders (flowers, food, Etsy gifting, etc)

**  If you love lists and/or know of someone that does, here's a must read 'L'art des Listes' by Dominique Loreau.  She's brilliant!

 

The calendar:  Compile in one calendar all important dates.  When?  NOW!  (as in today!!) it's also time to book professional and grooming appointments: hair stylist, aesthetician,  and babysitting.  Get it done, subito.  If you're looking for a terrific Family Calendar go to More Time Moms. En français? Par ici!  I'm a huge fan of this company, and have been for years now! The calendars are big, kid friendly, and you can see the whole month at a glance.  Here's what should be written on your December calendar by now:

• Parties
• Dinners (at home or elsewhere)
• School concerts
• Sports Events
• Holidays (Time off)
• Working Day
• Block some REAL time OFF (at least two days if you can).  Here's the trick: Practice saying 'Non, merci' and get some rest.

One (or two or three) more things...

• Lower your expectations, nothing needs to be perfect (especially if it's stressing you out!)
• Accept help (why not host pot lucks?)
• D is for 'Delegate'!
• Don't give into panic, take control by tackling one thing at the time - we still have 24 days!

There you have, easy peasy.  Tomorrow will be all about finding the perfect gift for each person on your list!  Is there another strategy you find helpful to keep stress under control during busy times?  Please go to my Facebook page and share!  À demain!