It’s the busiest (and most wonderful) time of the year. Here are three tips for staying productive through the holidays.
1. Make a List (Check It Twice)
From Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day, start every workweek (or workday) with a to-do list. This is our favorite holiday recommendation to help us stay focused and productive. We recommend listing everything you need to do and then prioritizing that list. There are a couple of ways you can do this.
The “two-minute rule” says that if something takes less than two minutes to complete, do it immediately. It’s a good technique for tackling a lengthy list and controlling that overwhelming feeling when it seems like there’s too much to do and not enough time to do it. This method is also a great tool to help with procrastination.
Another prioritization strategy is the Eisenhower Decision Matrix. Categorize everything in your master to-do list according to what’s important, what’s urgent, and what can wait. We’re pretty sure that’s how Santa keeps on schedule.
2. Be Realistic
Your list might have too much on it. Before diving in, be realistic about how much you can accomplish. We know. Everyone wants to do all the things with poise and efficiency, but even Santa knows when to visit the workshop and when to feed the reindeer. Not everything has to be finished this year; some of it can wait. It’s important to set expectations and deadlines.
And some things can be delegated. Be willing to let go of control sometimes. Work smarter, not harder. After all, Santa doesn’t make the toys.
3. Rest and Recover
It’s the holidays. Go offline during family time. Be thankful, remember God’s miracles, and celebrate the future. Work hard right up until quitting time, and then focus exclusively on parties, family and friends, and some well-deserved time off.
If that’s hard for you, remember that rest is practical. Next year’s going to be busy, so prep for it by relaxing now. You’ll hit January 2024 with more vigor and focus, and your first quarter productivity will thank you.
So there it is. This season, make lists, prioritize tasks, and then recover.