How to Stay Productive During Holiday Crunch Time

It’s the most busy time of the year. Here are three tips for staying productive through the holidays.

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 productive. We suggest that you list everything you have to do, and then prioritize it. There are a couple ways to 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 quickly thinning out a long list and controlling that overwhelming feeling when there’s too much to do and not enough time.

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.

Santa's Eisenhower Decision Matrix — Santa stays productive with an Eisenhower Decision Matrix.

Make a Resolution to Be Realistic

Your list probably has too much on it. Before diving in, be realistic about how much you can accomplish. We know. Everyone wants to do it all with poise and efficiency, but even Santa knows when to visit the mall and when to feed the reindeer.

Not everything has to be finished this year; some of it can wait. And some things can be delegated. Be willing to let go of control sometimes. After all, Santa doesn’t make the toys.

Buddy the Elf Testing Startling Jack-in-the-Boxes

I’m Dreaming of a Restful Christmas

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 and vacation.

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 with more vigor and focus, and your first quarter productivity will thank you.