Clutter Busting Coach

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Holiday Countdown 2020…one week in

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I proposed last week that your holiday countdown should begin on November 1 each year. Starting on this date gives you eight-weeks to complete your holiday plans and hopefully create a joyful season.

So, have you started yet? If not, commit to one task that you can do in the next seven days for your holiday that will jump start your checklist.

Need help reframing your holiday to dos and expectations? Contact me for a demonstration on how life coaching can support you through the holidays.

Holiday Countdown 2020 

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Did I write Holiday Countdown? Yes. I did. And I know that Christmas is over eight weeks away.

That is why I am mentioning it now. Most of us get stressed about the holidays because we start planning after Thanksgiving. This gives us only four or five weeks depending on the year for accomplishing our “perfect” holiday celebration. And even though the 2020 Holidays may end up looking different than past Holidays, a checklist or plan and starting at the beginning of November will really lessen the “normal” stress during this time of year.

As I do every year, and it is worth repeating, take the stress out of the holidays and begin your holiday countdown November 1.

If you would like to obtain a copy of my Eight Week Holiday Survival Checklist, contact me by October 31.

‘Tis the Season: Holiday Planning Tips

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Did you do a double take when you read the title for this post?

Did you wonder why I would be posting something about the holidays so early?

Well, I know from personal and professional experience that the holidays are considered a stressful time of the year. Yet the holidays should be a joyful time of year. The holidays should be a time that we look forward to. A time to spend with family and friends. A special time of the year to share and to celebrate the season.

If the word holiday creates feelings of stress, thoughts of chaos and a sense of being overwhelmed, beginning your holiday planning within this next week can change the holiday into a season filled with happy moments and a sense of calm.

Most people don’t even think about the Christmas holiday until after Thanksgiving Day which is not consistent and can leave you with only four or five weeks prior to the holiday. [Read more…]

Holiday Joy: Healthy Eating

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While most holiday parties and festivities take place during the last three weeks prior to Christmas, it is possible to enjoy holiday celebrations without overindulging if you follow a few tips:

  • Plan some activities where food isn’t the primary focus and physical activity is the focus.
  • Before attending a party have a snack to take the edge off hunger.
  • Offer to bring a healthy dish to pass.
  • Commit to continue balanced meals, adequate fluids, and getting plenty of rest.
  • Don’t skip meals especially breakfast.
  • Keep your regular exercise schedule.
  • Plan some quiet time into your day to mediate, journal or relax.
  • Station yourself away from the buffet table so you make a conscious choice to eat.
  • Watch your alcohol intake for the sake of calories and commitment.
  • Save your indulgences for one or two favorites.

Enjoy the holidays doing the things that matter most to you including holiday foods and treats by planning ahead, taking care of yourself and staying aware.

Holiday Joy: Four Weeks and Counting

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While I suggest using an eight-week holiday checklist, even if you are just getting started here are some ideas to divide and conquer your holiday task list in four weeks

  • Select two days each week to work on your holiday to-do list. Write it in your calendar.
  • Group errands together. Buy all the children’s gifts at the same time. Buy staples and stocking stuffers from the same store.
  • Delegate tasks to other household members. Get your family members (based on age and skill level) to help with items still left on the “to do” list such as decorating, baking, wrapping, shopping or decorating.

Make a plan for the four weeks remaining prior to the holiday and work the plan. Your holiday will be joyful instead of stressful.

If you would like to receive my eight-week or four-week holiday checklist, contact me.