This time of year tends to be overwhelmingly busy both at work and at home. Yet, it’s the season that calls for cherished time with family and friends. How can we possibly balance everything? Well, if we take a lesson from the man in the red suit, we know that to get through the busiest of seasons, we need help. For us it won’t come in the form of tiny elves or flying reindeer, but delegating duties to trusted individuals and creating a simple plan can work magic with your schedule.

Handle Holiday Stress• Sleep.

I’m going to start at the end. The end of the day, that is. Possibly the most important way you can boost your production and your heath, is to get a good night’s sleep. Follow up with a good breakfast and don’t skip meals!

• Make a list. Check it twice.

Take a few minutes in the morning to plan your day, not just for work, but for personal items as well. Crossing off line items brings a great amount of pleasure and accomplishment, a small gift to yourself! So create a list, check it twice and make your way through it. When things get thrown your way through the day reevaluate your list. Do the new items need be completed now? Can they wait? Keep this in mind; if everything you have to do is important and high priority, then how do you know what is most important? Prioritize and if the goal is impossible, let it go and move on.

• N.O.

NO! Sounds harsh, but that little word can be a very powerful tool. We can’t do everything all the time. Sometimes, we are asked to do something because we are good at it, or because we will see it through and not drop the ball. Then there is that third reason, which is simply because we will say yes. Recognize why you are being asked and don’t be afraid to say no.

• Don’t be afraid to pass the ball.

Delegate. This task is easier said than done for most of us. How many times have you said, or thought, “it is just easier and less time consuming to do it myself”. Is it? Really? Or can you just not let it go? Some tasks should not be passed off, but you may find that others certainly can be. Let people help and don’t be afraid to ask.

• Time out.

Take a Break. Even if it is a 5 minute walk around the building. This can recharge your batteries and give you a fresh perspective on the tasks at hand.

Time is a gift. It cannot be bought, sold or replaced. It is precious, priceless and fleeting….so make the most of it and enjoy this wonderful holiday season!