10 Tips to Get Organized for the Holidays

Ten tips to help you keep a level head during the 2011 holidays.

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, but it can also be a humongous hassle if not planned out properly. When family is over to visit and budgets are tight, the winter holidays can be a major source of stress. If you hope to take multiple excursions or even to relax as much as possible this break, setting out priorities will be unquestionably beneficial. Follow these steps in order to stay organized this holiday season.

1. Keep an agenda.

Start by writing all your commitments on to a large calendar in an area of your house that you walk by frequently. Whenever you are out, keep a planner on you at all times. As soon as you get home, transfer any events you have in your planner straight to your calendar. That way, you can look at the bigger picture before making plans.


2. Create several winter break to-do lists.

This includes gift lists, assignment lists, chore lists and greeting card lists. Having multiple lists is less stressful to look at!


3. Get homework done and out of the way.


Finish work at the beginning of the break in order to have more time to yourself! Take time to study so that you can ease your way back into school.



4. Limit TV and computer time.


Try to limit your TV, computer and video game time to half an hour total per day. Spend time with loved ones and relax.


5. Time block, don’t multi-task.


Set aside a specific block of time for each item on your to-do list. That way, you can give your full attention to each activity instead of scrambling to accomplish everything at the same time.


6. Keep a budget.


Keeping a budget is crucial for the holiday season. Include parties, presents, outings and extra spending money. Keep your receipts organized and make sure you stick to your allotted amount of cash.


7. Avoid shopping madness.


Shop with a list of presents in mind and know where to find them. Skip busy malls by going at least two weeks prior to gifting. If you shop online, leave plenty of time for shipping. In other words, start ordering now!


8. Make your own gifts
.

For a cost-effective and environmentally-friendly season, make your own gifts. These gifts are much more personal and come at much lower price. Get creative and incorporate people’s interests.


9. Take care of yourself.


Get as much rest as possible over the break; you’ll thank yourself when school starts up again! Balance decadent holiday sweets with healthy food, wash your hands often and take vitamins (especially vitamin D) to avoid seasonal flus.


10. Keep your space organized.


A clean room is the perfect place to focus on what you need to get done, and also to clear your mind and unwind. Get rid of what you don’t need and efficiently store belongings that are essential to you.