This crazy time of year can make even the most organised, feel overwhelmed... But relax, there’s still time to plan well today so you can ease into the holidays with a smile.
At home
Write a Master List
Stop wasting time every year rewriting your long list of holiday 'to do's'. This year, take a moment to type up an “End of the Year Master List” and use it annually to keep track of your tasks.
Plan your purchases
With the shops and malls ablaze with baubles and bows, it’s tempting to buy new items without knowing what you already have. Check for what you need before visiting the stores to avoid any unnecessary expenses or clutter build up.
Get your children to go through their rooms and cupboards so they can also experience the joy of giving by passing on the toys and books they no longer play with. They will feel better parting with a once loved toy knowing that another child can now benefit from it, while they clear the decks for their new holiday treats.
The Joy of Giving
Most of us have too much stuff. Get creative with your gift list this year … instead of another toy, box of chocolates, body lotion or bubbly, give a gift which can be experienced and enjoyed – tickets to the movies or the theatre, music or dance lessons, edible gifts, magazine subscription or gift vouchers for a spa treatment are some ideas to get you going.
At work
Tie up loose ends
The days just before you take leave can be incredibly productive as you crunch the time you have and diminish your tasks to fit that space. It can also be stressful though so start scheduling this week already to catch up on unfinished business like filing, returning calls, and emptying your inbox.
Clear your desk
Before you leave the office, clear your desk, empty the trash and leave an action list to help you dive into the year on your return. If you prefer not to be bothered while bathing on the beach, set up your email “out of office message” and change the message on your answering service.
Now sit back, relax, and enjoy what the last couple of days of the year has in store. Forgive your failures, celebrate your success. Cheers to a great year!
*Get Organised is passionate about helping you create a sense of calm in your home and office. Visit www.getorganised.co.za to download your free Get Organised Starter Pack or to find an organiser in your area.
At home
Write a Master List
Stop wasting time every year rewriting your long list of holiday 'to do's'. This year, take a moment to type up an “End of the Year Master List” and use it annually to keep track of your tasks.
Plan your purchases
With the shops and malls ablaze with baubles and bows, it’s tempting to buy new items without knowing what you already have. Check for what you need before visiting the stores to avoid any unnecessary expenses or clutter build up.
Get your children to go through their rooms and cupboards so they can also experience the joy of giving by passing on the toys and books they no longer play with. They will feel better parting with a once loved toy knowing that another child can now benefit from it, while they clear the decks for their new holiday treats.
The Joy of Giving
Most of us have too much stuff. Get creative with your gift list this year … instead of another toy, box of chocolates, body lotion or bubbly, give a gift which can be experienced and enjoyed – tickets to the movies or the theatre, music or dance lessons, edible gifts, magazine subscription or gift vouchers for a spa treatment are some ideas to get you going.
At work
Tie up loose ends
The days just before you take leave can be incredibly productive as you crunch the time you have and diminish your tasks to fit that space. It can also be stressful though so start scheduling this week already to catch up on unfinished business like filing, returning calls, and emptying your inbox.
Clear your desk
Before you leave the office, clear your desk, empty the trash and leave an action list to help you dive into the year on your return. If you prefer not to be bothered while bathing on the beach, set up your email “out of office message” and change the message on your answering service.
Now sit back, relax, and enjoy what the last couple of days of the year has in store. Forgive your failures, celebrate your success. Cheers to a great year!
*Get Organised is passionate about helping you create a sense of calm in your home and office. Visit www.getorganised.co.za to download your free Get Organised Starter Pack or to find an organiser in your area.