Enjoying your holidays

Marcia's monthly motivational message - Enjoying your holidays
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When we think about the Festive Season, some people look forward to it and some people don't.

Just in chatting to some friends the last couple of weeks, I get mixed reactions like this: I never go away during December because there's no traffic in Jhb, and then… I hate being in Jhb during December because the rest of the country's up here and there's no parking. Some people plan everything around family time, and some purposely want to be away from family. Different strokes for different folks? I suppose so.

The one thing in common is that people have definite ideas about what they want and don't want. This is great. However, you need to plan around that instead of just stressing about your expectations not being met.

So, the first action step is to decide, as a family, what is most important to you. Do you want to do cards and gifts, do lots of church activities, volunteer at a children's home or spend time with friends and family?

Choose a couple and then plan around your common goals. It might also be a good idea to write these on your refrigerator so you're constantly reminded of what's most important.

Here are some points to help you plan the holidays:

family
1. Who do you want to spend time with?
2. Are you buying gifts for everybody or will you each draw a name? I know somebody whose family only exchanges gifts with the people they're together with on Christmas Day.
3. Resolve not to get into an argument with your relatives about stupid things. Remember they know how to push your buttons!

food
1. When you cook, cook double and freeze the extra portion. On the days when you don't feel like cooking, you can just pull the meal out the freezer and defrost.
2. Make extra cookie dough and freeze. You can then easily defrost and bake when you get visitors.
3. Don't feel like you must do everything. You're not Superwoman. Say yes when people ask if they can bring something and tell them exactly what to bring.

fun
1. You don't have to attend every social event you're invited to. It's okay to say no.
2. Eat something small (sandwich) before you go out so that you don't overeat and make bad choices. This is especially true if you're on a weight loss journey like I am. Choose tomato-based sauces instead of the fattier, creamy options. Halve your portion immediately and ask for a doggie bag. Those of you in South Africa can spread some Christmas cheer and give your doggie bag to a homeless person or to the car guard.
3. If you're at a party and you're drinking, remember to drink lots of water.

figures (money)
1. Don't go overboard with the money. Buy now, pay later results in lots of stress in the New Year.
2. Decide on a budget for all gifts and stick to it. If you run out, get creative and make something (babysitting vouchers, a casserole, some baked goodies, home spa/ massage vouchers).
3. Put aside some money for the time leading up to your January salary. In SA, there is usually a six-week gap between the Dec and Jan salaries. We've done this in my family for the last seven or eight years so that we always have money in January. It takes a bit of discipline but is so worth it when there are 3 weeks before pay day and you have plenty of money in your bank account.

Well, I hope these points gave you something to think about.

Here's to a meaningful holiday season! Always remember that the reason for the season is our Saviour's birth.

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Marcia Francois, the Take Charge coach and professional organiser, coaches people to reach their goals and maximise their potential. She publishes the popular “Take charge of your life” monthly ezine. If you're ready to finally live your dream life, get your FREE subscription now at http://www.takechargesolutions.org/