Tis the Season
Tis the season to be stressy. Or maybe not. Maybe you can avoid the stress of the holiday gift must-buys, finals and deadlines, traveling, cocktail parties, dorm parties, snow, lazy business partners, and the need to continue marketing your business through it all – if you take the time to re-prioritize.
You know what’s important to you and your business, and you may’ve written and re-written your goals a zillion times. So, why stop in the middle of the busiest season of the year to do it again? Well, my friend – because stress costs money, and you cannot afford to lose money, right?
Open your notepad to a clean page and write this across the top of it: “Personal goals for stress-free holidays.”
Now, you need to streamline your daily routine to accommodate the new tasks that need to get done before you return home with all of your dirty laundry. But, first you must realize and accept the fact that you do not have to finish ALL of those bright ideas before December 24th.
What is the single most important thing that you need to get done in the next week and a half? What can wait until you return? Make yourself a list of no more than two items per day – this way you have time for unexpecteds and rest.
Shopping Tips
Starving entrepreneurs like us needn’t worry about spending big bucks on gifts. My advice is to create something really special and give it to everyone in your family. (this year, I’m giving all of the women in my family a potted plant, that I rooted from another, with a poem written on the pot). Thoughtful gifts go a long way. Use your creativity and your entrepreneurial drive to save money and make the family happy.
Your clients and business partners are very special and must not be forgotten. Try to write each one a personalized thank-you along with their gift. Let them know how much you appreciate them. I would not recommend giving all of your employees the same exact gift. They are different. Show them that you pay attention to what they like.
Also: do not commit to shopping with a buddy who takes hours trying on dresses and smelling knick knacks – if you won’t be able to purchase anything from your list. And do not shop aimlessly this season, either – especially if you have a big list.
You can get through this trying time of year if you keep positive spirits and remember that it really isn’t rooted in materialism. Less time spent shopping can mean more time with loved ones, more time for rest, and more time to call that client and say Happy New Year in person.
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