Is a Not So Busy December really a possibility? I believe your December, a month that many people refer to as “crazy” and “busy” and (you guessed it) “crazy busy”, can be a less busy, more enjoyable holiday month. Let me encourage you with these 7 ideas.
- Eliminate Gift-Giving Did I really just say that?? Yes, you can eliminate gift-giving or at least limit some of the gift-giving. Instead, consider options such as memory-making activities. For example, create a certificate for your niece that invites her to a special evening out to see a movie and enjoy dessert at a local cafe. Spend a little less time running from store to store, and enjoy a little more time creating memories that can happen throughout the year.
- Shop online If you are giving a physical gift that requires making a purchase, consider shopping online. You will save time and money when you are able to shop from the comfort of your own home. I created 2 gift guides that might be a good starting point if you are shopping for her or for the kids.
- Consider Your Calendar Pull out your calendar and see what you already have scheduled this month. Consider very carefully your other options and leave many blank spaces for slow evenings at home or for spontaneous sledding with the neighborhood crew.
- Combine Activities It’s fun to try to come up with ways to combine various tasks and activities you both want to and have to do. Maybe you always spend a day baking cookies, and you also try to do a Christmas movie night with your book club each year. Combine the events. You could invite your book club friends over for a movie and cookie making evening.
- Make Do with What you Have A lot of time can be spent running around looking for and buying various items you feel you need for December activities and events. Take a peek in your closet before racing through the mall on a hunt for the perfect office party dress. Before making a trip to your local craft store, step outside and gather some greens to put in a vase for a quick and free centerpiece.
- Get Help from a Friend You might ask a friend for childcare help so you can make the most of your time at the grocery store when shopping for Christmas Eve dinner. You might consider making cookies with a few friends (like your book club) so you don’t have to make them all on your own.
- Say “No” This might be the hardest on the list. Saying “no” isn’t easy, but sometimes it’s just the thing you need to do. You might need to say no to the office gift swap. You might need to say no to the ugly sweater party at your uncle’s house. You might need to say no to the school fundraiser you always attend.
This December does not have to be as busy as your last December. This December can be more simple, restful, and reflective. It can be full of family, fun, and special memories. It can be a Not So Busy December.
What about you? How can you make this a Not So Busy December?
Until next time,
Charissa
Welcome! I am so glad you are here! I'm Charissa, the Not So Busy Mom, wife and mother of 3. Join me as we pursue a full life without the busy.
I was JUST telling my husband that I have to learn to say “no” more! It’s always been a hardship of mine, but it’s so empowering when you do it! And I’m all about making do with what I have for sure! I used to be so careless and what run out and buy every single little thing I needed, whether it was a recipe or a piece to an outfit and then find out later that I already had what I needed! My favorite on this list is probably combine activities. What a great (and still fun) way to get everything in and get your time with people while still making time for the calm. Thank you!
Yes, Jill, I am still working on saying “no”. Say “no” to certain things, so you can say “yes” to others.
Your last point, saying no will be the toughest for me. Wish me luck! 🙂 Thank you for sharing!
Yes, Nancy, I agree, saying no is not very easy, but it is often very important.
All great suggestions! Love it Charissa!
Angie O’D
Thanks, Angie!
Such a good post, I am also hoping for a peaceful and meaningful December!
Peaceful and meaningful! I like that!!