The end of the year is quickly approaching. Everyone is saying, “I can’t believe it’s already the end of the year.” Well it is.
We’re starting to plan our Halloween activities and Thanksgiving gatherings. We’re even thinking about our holiday cards, gifts, and parties. Some are even planning their New Year’s Eve celebration.
As we roll into the last quarter of the year, the part of the year filled with holidays and gatherings, it’s easy to find yourself with a full calendar of events. Schedule down time for yourself. Avoid overbooking your calendar by learning to say “no.”
While it’s normal to want to accept every invitation. Realistically, it can cause more angst than joy. Give yourself permission to decline an invitation. Sure you may miss a good time, but if you’re tired will you really enjoy yourself?
Figure out how much down time you need to keep your peace of mind. Some people can only handle one event per weekend. Whereas, others may prefer booking every night of the week except Sunday night. Figure out what works for y-o-u.
Once you know your limits, be proactive. Go ahead and block off times when you want to focus on yourself.
If you’re expecting out of town guests, block off time before your guest arrive and after they leave. If you have two gatherings back to back, give yourself a day with no obligations.
How will you use that time?
Use that time to review your 2016 accomplishments and set new aspirations for 2017.
Use that time to enjoy holiday decorations.
Use that time to watch movies or catch-up on TV series.
Use that time to plan your next vacation.
Use that time to just be.
In today’s world, we seem to be going nonstop all the time, especially during the end of the year. Each month there’s a holiday — Halloween, Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve. Scheduling down time will help you find more joy in what can be a hectic holiday season. You’ll also be more pleasant to be around.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Niv Persaud, CFP®, CDFA™, CRPC®, is the Founder of Transition Planning & Guidance, LLC. Life is more than money. It’s about living the lifestyle you want and can afford. For that reason, Niv consults with clients on money, life, and work. Her approach capitalizes on techniques she learned throughout her career, including as a management consultant, executive recruiter, and financial advisor. Her services include spending plan, financial plan, divorce financial review, life strategy, and professional progression. Niv actively gives back to her community through her volunteer efforts. She believes in living life to the fullest by cherishing friendships, enjoying the beauty of nature, and laughing often — even at herself. Her favorite quote is by Erma Bombeck, “When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left and could say ‘I used everything you gave me’.”