During the holiday season expectations are raised.  The food needs to be perfect, the gift needs to be thoughtfully purchased, the house needs to be tastefully decorated, and everyone needs to be happy all the time.  Record your expectations for the season.  Everything you can think of.  Look through your list and decide on a plan that makes each expectation manageable for you.  If your expectations align with practicality, this holiday will be less stressful and more fun.

Planning Food

Could you:

Make a simple Holiday meal.

1. Cook ahead of time and freeze the food
2. Plan a potluck with everyone contributing
3. Buy your holiday baking
4. Simplify your menu,prepare fewer items

Gift Giving

Could you:

1. Reduce the number of people you buy for
2. Draw names so everyone gets one gift
3. Set a price limit on the value of the gift
4. Plan an experience instead of buying a gift: go to a play, go out for dinner, and go to a movie

Decorating

Could you:

Use flowers to decorate.

1.   Put out fewer items
2.   Use larger items to make the space look decorated instead of using  lots of small                 items
3.   Decorate with flowers; you don’t have to pack them away when the season is over

Be Happy

Could you:

Spend time together doing things you enjoy

1. Plan your schedule so you don’t get over tired
2. Plan down time so each member of the group can spend time alone
3. Plan things you like to do, not have to do
4. Plan to exercise and get fresh air

Can you learn to ask for help and accept help?

Virtual organizing allows me to support your organizing projects by providing planning, coaching and mentoring while both remaining safely at home Book a 30-minute complimentary virtual organizing assessment. https://mindoverclutter.as.me/virtualorganizingassessment

Julie Stobbe is a Trained Professional Organizer and Lifestyle Organizing Coach who brings happiness to homes and organization to offices, in person and virtually. She has been working with clients since 2006 to provide customized organizing solutions to suit their individual needs and situation. She uses her love of physical activity to reduce clutter, in your home and office. She guides and supports you to manage your time. If you’re in a difficult transition Julie can coach you to break-free of emotional clutter constraining you from living life on your terms. Online courses are available to help instruct, coach and support your organizing projects. Get started by downloading Tips for Reorganizing 9 Rooms.

Contact her at julie@mindoverclutter.ca

Click here to learn more about her online course Create an Organized Home.

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