Finding balance in the lead up to Christmas
Hurray for the festive season! Sort of.
For many of us, the lead-up to Christmas is a magical time filled with sparkle, nostalgic songs and the promise of many a merry moment. But let’s face it—if you’re an assistant juggling year-end deadlines and managing someone’s else’s to-do list on top of your own – with a heap of Christmas shopping and a social calendar bursting at the seams, the magic can quickly feel like mayhem.
Striking a balance in December is crucial to avoid burnout and actually enjoy the festivities. Here are some practical tips to help you stay grounded and stress-free this Christmas.
1. Prioritize and Plan Ahead
The year-round golden rule for any admin assistant is planning—and Christmas is no exception!
- At work: Focus on critical tasks first. Break these down into manageable chunks. Then use your trusty calendar to block out time for high-priority projects.
- At home: Create a holiday to-do list. Book in tasks like shopping and meal planning – they’re so much harder if you squeeze them in the sides.
Pro Tip: Keep a small Christmas notebook or use a notes app to jot down gift ideas, grocery lists or reminders on the go to help contain the madness.
2. Learn to Say “No”
December is the month of invitations, requests and expectations. From organizing the office Secret Santa to attending every Christmas catch-up and party, it’s easy to overcommit.
- Set boundaries: Politely decline tasks or events that add unnecessary stress and / or which you don’t think is likely to bring more joy than added chaos. There’s no need to explain – a simple ‘Sorry, I can’t!’ is almost always enough.
- Delegate where possible: It may be your job to juggle tasks and assistants have a lot on their plates, but when there’s a lot going on at work and at home, delegate! You can share the office party organisation and you don’t need to be solely responsible for buying family presents.
- Schedule in time off: Book in enough nights ‘off’ in your diary and treat them like the valid engagements that they are.
Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup. Saying “no” occasionally can give you the space to truly enjoy what matters most.
3. Take Care of Yourself
When you’re taking care of everyone else—your boss, your colleagues, your family—it’s easy to forget yourself. Prioritize the elusive self-care this season.
- Stay active: A quick walk in the fresh air or a yoga session can do wonders for your mood and energy levels – particularly on one too many mild hangovers!
- Eat mindfully: While there’s no need to deny yourself all the festive treats, balance them out with nourishing meals for the feel good factor and to dodge the worst of the grey festive skin.
- Sleep well: Late-night wrapping sessions are tempting, but a good night’s sleep will keep you refreshed and ready to tackle your to-do list with energy the next day.
4. Simplify Where You Can
Not everything has to be Instagram-perfect.
- A festive email or message is just as heartwarming as a handwritten card.
- Choose quality over quantity when it comes to presents—thoughtful, smaller gestures mean just as much (if not more). Better for the planet too.
- Consider pre-prepped or catered options for holiday meals to save time and stress. No point being the one in the kitchen while everyone else enjoys themselves!
Simplifying doesn’t make the season less special—it makes it much more enjoyable.
5. Pause and Savour the Season
It’s easy to get caught up in the 100mph sleigh-ride, but don’t let the magic of Christmas slip by unnoticed.
- Think about what you value most about this season and make sure you’re prioritising these things. Whether it’s connecting with tons of friends at parties, or finding the perfect gesture for people you love, focus on what’s important to you.
- Take a moment each day to reflect on what brings you joy, whether it’s a nostalgic Christmas tune on the radio, a kind gesture from a colleague, or a brisk walk on a cold, blue day.
Embrace the Joy
As an assistant, you’re used to handling it all with panache. But this Christmas, give yourself the gift of balance. By planning ahead, setting boundaries, and simplifying your (and others’) expectations, you’ll create space for what really matters.
Have a beautiful, balanced Christmas!
LINKS & CONTACT DETAILS
sophie@thebeehiveconcierge.co.uk
