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THE ORGANIZED APPROACH TO THE HOLIDAYS

Here are some tips to help you gain control and peace of mind during the busy holiday season.

DECIDE ON PRIORITIES

You really can't do it all. Decide what you want your holiday season to be like. Do you plan on traveling? Entertaining? Socializing? Volunteering? Decide this FIRST, so you can plan accordingly and be less tempted to just try and do it all. Once you know what matters most to you - keep this in the front of your mind and the rest will be easier.

WRITE IT DOWN

Your To Do list at this time of year is far too large to keep in your head - no matter how organized you are. Keep a notepad/notebook with you at all times to jot things down as they come to you .. or better yet, call and order this month's Featured Product.

MAP YOUR ACTIVITIES BACKWARDS

Once you have selected your priorities for the season, sit down and list out all the steps you must take to accomplish each activity. List each step - starting from the end result and going backwards. For instance, if you must mail packages out of town: determine the date you want the package to arrive, when it must be mailed, when you intend to wrap and box it up, when you will shop, etc. Looking at your tasks this way will require you to think carefully about every step necessary and give you an accurate estimate of how much time is needed to meet your goal. You may, or may not be surprised how much time you truly need.

USE YOUR CALENDAR

Now that you have all your activities selected, prioritized and itemized - log them on your calendar. Again, this is too much information to hold in your head. Even if you have planned thoroughly, you will likely have several activities and tasks occurring on the same day. There is no way to stay on top of this without a calendar. If you'd really like to get organized, you might consider using a color system: different colored entries for shopping, entertaining, family events, etc.

USE YOUR TIME WISELY

Now, more than ever, it is crucial to protect your time and use it very, very carefully. The best ways to do this are:

Start Early. As mentioned above, things always take longer than expected. Start planning early so you will not be rushed.
Prioritize. Remember: You can't do it all.
Delegate. Solicit help from family and friends whenever possible.
Hire Out. Consider hiring a cleaning service. Even if you don't do this regularly, give yourself a gift.
Shop during off-peak hours, or consider shopping on-line.

BE PREPARED

Do as much in advance as possible to alleviate the stress of having to rush at the last minute:

wash linens and towels to prepare for guests;
wash dishes and serving pieces that have been stored away;
Clean out the fridge and make room for additional food;
Have some music, candles and light snacks on hand for drop-in guests.

Just a little bit of planning is all it takes to be on your way to a relaxing, enjoyable season with family and friends.

WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR E-ZINE OR WEBSITE? Please do! Simply include this blurb: Kim Cossette is a Certified Professional Organizer (CPO®) and Owner of The Organized Approach - a professional organizing company dedicated to helping busy homeowners create calm, uncluttered, joyful living spaces. If you are ready to get organized, receive Kim’s FREE "10 Simple Steps to Get Organized and Change Your Life!" by visiting www.theorganizedapproach.com.