There are so many things to do, both personally and professionally in the next few days.

You are committed to three holiday parties plus a big presentation for work. You haven’t finished buying gifts for your employees and family and hate the crowds and traffic this time of year. It is a lot to handle on top of your normal workload.

Even so, using a few organizing tools can contribute to an enjoyable holiday season.  I hope these tips will help you reduce your stress.

Tips for a Balanced Holiday Season:

• Collect money for a charity in lieu of a holiday party and gifts to co-workers.
• Make gift giving easy – Shop online and ship the gift directly to the recipient.
• Cancel meetings that cover topics that can wait until next year.
• Be present and in the moment – Enjoy your child’s holiday performance. The work will be there when you get back.
• Don’t be hard on yourself – this isn’t about perfection.  Be realistic with your expectations.  You’ll probably be spending more time than usual on non-work activities.  It’s okay.
• If you have an offsite meeting near a shopping area, plan to go directly from the meeting to do some shopping.  Make a list (check it twice) and keep it with you.
• Find a co-worker who has similar errands to run.  During lunch, you can stand in line at the post office for both of you while your co-worker runs your collective errands at another location.

Of all the traditions we have in my family, the most important one I want to pass down to my children is a balanced approach to the holidays.  I want them to remember the joy of the season and family gatherings.  I will have to say “no” to some personal and professional demands to achieve that goal, but long term, it is worth it.

Are you ready to feel balanced and effective at work and in life?


Read my eBook Love Your Calendar…and be monogamous.

Melissa Gratias (pronounced “Gracious”) used to think that productivity was a result of working long hours. And, she worked a lot of hours. Then, she learned that productivity is a skill set, not a personality trait. Now, Melissa is a productivity expert who coaches and trains other businesspeople to be more focused, balanced, and effective. She is a prolific writer and speaker who travels the world helping people change how they work and improve how they live. Contact her at getproductive@melissagratias.com or 912-417-2505. Sign up to receive her productivity tips via email.