The end of the year is frantic for a million and one reasons, the biggest one being the holidays. It’s the season of planning family and office get togethers and parties, shopping, hiding the shopping from housemates or partners — not to mention children! The holiday season is hectic. But should that stop us from enjoying ourselves? Not at all. Here are some tips on how to stay productive during the holidays.
1. Reduce your “To-Do” list.
If your average day consists of six or seven tasks, reduce that down to four or five, as it reduces the amount of stress on you and everyone around you. It will give you time to actually finish your work, and partake in any office parties or festivities there might be.
2. Try not to shop at work.
We know that it can be tempting when you have some down-time and want to knock out some gift shopping while you don’t have anyone around, but it can easily turn from 5 minutes to an hour and a half, and that’s time wasted for you and your work. Keep it limited to before and after your tasks are finished for the day.
3. Set aside a special time of day for shopping.
Set aside time to plan and shop for the holidays. You should look to select a time away from work, but not before, so you don’t arrive at work frazzled. Set aside a small chunk of time — 30 minutes to an hour — and once it’s over, it’s over. No more worrying!
4. Reduce your number of meetings.
Does anyone really have time for meetings during the holiday season? Absolutely not! Therefore, you should only schedule meetings when you absolutely have to. Better yet, combine different things into one meeting.
5. Come back from breaks a few minutes early.
This might sound awful, but we promise, it will give you a chance to get your head back into gear and enjoy some solitude before you continue the rest of your day.
Trying to stay motivated and productive during the holiday season is difficult. And, understandably so. After all, we have a lot going on with families and/or friends during the holidays. However, if you grit your teeth, buckle down, and give these five tips a try, you’ll make it through the holidays with your sanity intact.