As much joy and happiness we get from the holidays, with all the food, family and gift-giving, it can get hectic. Get organized early so you can handle the stressors of Christmas.
Wouldn’t it feel better to have everything already done and not be scrambling last minute to find the wrapping paper? If you follow the five tips below, you’ll be prepared for Christmas early this year!
1. Make a List (Check it Twice!)
Keeping track of all the presents you need to buy, parties to attend, and errands to run can be impossible during this time of year. One way to stay organized is to make a list.
Jot the list down on something you have on you at all times—like your phone! This is the easiest way to remember what needs to be done. Your list can always be easily changed or updated. When you finish one task, just open your phone and check it off the list so you know it is done.
I love the iPhones built-in Reminders App 🙂
One extra tip for the list—protect your phone if that is where you are going to keep it. Pieces of paper can easily get lost. While phones are not, but they can be broken. Getting a case is a smart preventative measure to avoid the tragedy of a shattered phone and lost list.
2. Set Up a Gift Wrapping Station
One of the most time-consuming parts of Christmas is the gift wrapping.
I hate it!
Ribbon spools unraveling, running out of wrapping paper, disappearing tape—it’s a headache just thinking about it. But it doesn’t have to be! Set up a gift wrapping station in an extra room or space. Keeping all your supplies in one space will ensure you don’t have to hunt around the house looking for where you left the scissors.
Bags, boxes, and hangers are made for organizing gift wrapping supplies. They keep rolls of paper from ripping, bows from being smashed, and tags from being lost.
Plus, it makes clean up and storage way quicker! Consider getting some of these organizers to make every year this simple.
3. Plan Christmas Meals in Advance
Whether you have Christmas parties to attend or you’re the host, it can be very beneficial to plan what you are going to make well in advance.
Print the recipes and make a list of all the ingredients you need. Check your kitchen for what you have and what could have expired to avoid duplicate groceries.
Knowing everything you need beforehand will prevent multiple trips to the store, which can take up time and be a pain. It also guarantees nothing will be forgotten!
4. Buy Christmas Gifts Early
Take advantage of Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals by shopping early. There’s nothing more stressful than running around last minute to find the perfect gift.
Utilizing these sales will save you money and get you motivated to shop in advance. Waiting until a few days before Christmas can result in stores being out of stock or having to pay higher prices.
Don’t procrastinate, just get out and do it!
5. Take Care of Yourself!
As hectic as this time of the year is, it is important to take a step back and destress sometimes. If you don’t take care of yourself, you can end up sick or just plain unmotivated.
It is important to be mindful of your body as the cold weather and flu season can creep up on you. Spending too much time on the go can hinder your ability to notice if you are not feeling well. Make sure to bundle up, eat healthily, and be aware of when you need a break.
The holidays should be filled with laughter, love, and glee. Don’t get caught up in the stress. Instead, stay organized! The earlier things get done, the more time there is to celebrate and relax.
I definitely am a list maker. It is the only way I stay organized, lol.
I’m a list maker too. I love my calendar lol
Taking time for self care is so important. You want to do what is best for your family but if you are not feeling well or are extra tired you aren’t going to be up to par for them. It is best that you make sure that sleep and nutrition and exercise are there .
You’re so right. If you’re sick you won’t be up to anything else.