5- Simplify- Every task must be handled. You can do it, delegate it, or dump it. Eliminate what does not serve your priorities. What can you get help on and delegate? This is a good time to get rid of those items on your Not That Again list. Hire someone to decorate or a housekeeper for month. Have everyone bring a dish instead of you doing it yourself. Get your family involved and remember that things don't have to be perfect. Let go. This will give you space to embrace what you truly enjoy.

6- Set a budget- Develop a budget that feels good. There are lots of ways to make a holiday special without adding stress to your budget. Show people they are appreciated. Plan family fun and activities. You can let someone know what is special about them in a card, letter, cassette, or video. Get creative. Every year I have one gift for kids to find. I wrap empty boxes inside each other. When they open last box there is a clue telling them next step. Don't let a tight budget steal your joy. Make it fun!

7- Set boundaries- Decide now what you will not tolerate. Write it down. Remember your Not That Again list? Is there someone who ropes you into things you don't want to do? Have conversation that's overdue. No is no. If someone keeps asking after you said no, they are attempting to control you. Setting boundaries is about educating people on how they can treat you. Is there someone you need to educate?

8- Schedule time for planning and yourself- When is a good time to update your plan? When can you take time for you? Put it on your calendar each week thru end of year. Keep appointments. Add this line to your daytimer as a reminder: "I have an appointment in honor of myself this ______(day) at __:__ (time) to do something special for me because I sooooooo deserve it!"

9- Give in a way that gives you joy vs. obligation- When you give in a way that comes naturally to you, you stay in integrity with who you are. Therefore, you are able to share your own special gifts with others. When you are doing what you love life clicks. If there is a situation you are dreading, think about how you can tweak it and handle it in a way that would bring you more joy.

10- Take action now- Begin today so that you are tying up your last bows well before pitter patter of hoofs on rooftop. Keep your holiday journal and map close at hand. The sooner you complete your tasks, sooner you can sit back, smile, and enjoy season!

What I want for you is to take action to move one step forward to prepare for holidays...Starting Now!

Copyright 2002, Beth A. Tabak. All rights reserved.

Allow me make a request that you can accept or reject. Try taking your relationships to a deeper level, and see what happens. This is not about digging up your deep, dark secrets so don’t get nervous. Many of us don’t pry because we were raised with saying “don’t be nosy”. However, it is natural to be curious. One way to gain access to wisdom is by asking “what” questions. “What” questions are a great way to open up an interesting conversation. What was your most incredible experience? What is most interesting tidbit about your family? What was best advice you ever received? Another phrase to use is “tell me about...”. Tell me about your home town. Tell me about how you chose your profession. We often bobble on surface like a beach ball because it is just easier, and never realize treasures that lie below surface.

Seek story behind each person and grow from connection. Get to good stuff...Starting Now!

Copyright 2002, Beth A. Tabak, All rights reserved.