The holidays are a magical time filled with family, friends, and traditions, but they can also feel like a whirlwind of tasks and to-dos. The good news? With a little planning and organization, you can reduce stress, enjoy the process, and truly savor the season. Here’s how...
Start with a Holiday Plan
Before diving into the holiday chaos, take a step back and create a plan. Ask yourself:
What events are coming up? (Holiday parties, travel, family gatherings)
What deadlines do I need to meet? (Mailing cards, buying gifts, decorating)
What’s non-negotiable versus what I can let go this year?
Pro Tip: Use a calendar or a holiday checklist to map out key dates and tasks. This simple step helps you stay ahead and reduces last-minute scrambling.
Declutter Before You Decorate
Nothing dampens holiday cheer like wrestling with last year’s tangled lights or running out of storage space. Take some time to declutter before you pull out the decorations.
Toss broken ornaments and donate décor you no longer use.
Create a staging area for decorations so you can see everything you have before diving in.
Label bins for easy packing when it’s time to clean up.
Pro Tip: Streamline your decorations this year by focusing on a theme or color palette. It creates a cohesive look without feeling overwhelming.
Prioritize Holiday Prep Tasks
To avoid feeling overwhelmed, break down tasks into manageable chunks. Here’s a quick guide:
Early Holiday Prep (1-2 months out)
Make a gift list and set a budget.
Plan holiday meals or baking sessions.
Book travel arrangements.
Organize a “holiday command center” with gift wrap, scissors, tape, and tags.
Mid-Holiday Prep (2-3 weeks out)
Shop for gifts and groceries.
Decorate your home.
Schedule time for addressing cards or wrapping presents.
Last-Minute Prep (1 week out)
Clean high-traffic areas for guests.
Prep any make-ahead meals or treats.
Review your calendar to ensure nothing is overlooked.
Stay Stress-Free: Build in Breathing Room
It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle, but carving out moments to relax is essential.
Schedule downtime to enjoy small rituals: sipping cocoa, watching your favorite holiday movie, or going for a walk to see the lights.
Delegate tasks—ask family members to help with decorating, wrapping, or cooking.
Remember that “good enough” is better than burnt out. Focus on connection, not perfection.
Be Present in the Moment
The best memories are made when you’re truly present. Here’s how to stay mindful:
Turn off your phone during special moments like opening gifts or sharing meals.
Take photos sparingly—capture the moment, then put the camera down and enjoy it.
Reflect on what the holidays mean to you and focus on those priorities.
Pro Tip: Create small traditions that help you pause and savor the season. Whether it’s writing a gratitude list or lighting a candle each evening, these habits ground you in the moment.
Expect the Unexpected
Despite your best efforts, things might not go as planned—and that’s okay!
Keep a few extra gifts on hand for unexpected visitors.
Stock up on easy-to-make appetizers or desserts for last-minute gatherings.
Have a sense of humor when mishaps occur—it’s often these moments that make the best stories.
Pro Tip: Our motto over here is "stick to the schedule and go with. the flow" - especially important at the holidays but we live by it all year round.
Enjoy the Process
Finally, don’t let the pressure to “do it all” rob you of joy. The holidays are about connection, love, and laughter—not checking off every item on a to-do list.
Play festive music while you work.
Involve your family or friends in holiday prep to make it a shared experience.
Celebrate your progress, no matter how small.
Pro Tip: Take time to reflect on what went well each day and celebrate the small wins.
With a bit of planning, a touch of flexibility, and a focus on what truly matters, you can create a holiday season that’s organized, stress-free, and full of joy.
Looking for an easy-to-implement decluttering checklist to make sure you end the year - and start the new year - neat and tidy?
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Here’s to making this year’s celebrations your most magical yet!
PS. What are your favorite tips for staying organized during the holidays? Share them in the comments below!
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