The holidays are near…so near..oh wait, it’s here! Would you look at that? Not so long ago we’ve been vowing all over social media that 2018 will be our year. Now, it’s almost over – just one more month to go and we’ll be declaring 2019 to be our year.
December is a bonus month. Before the second week rolls around we’re already on vacation mode – off to parties, holiday prep, and travel planning. Our minds are off work and are looking forward to celebrations and family gatherings.
Pre-planning helps you prevent being one of those people who haven’t planned their holidays and are buying last minute gifts in a frenzy. It can also help you avoid unnecessary costs since somehow, prices are jacked up closer to the holidays: plane tickets, hotel bookings, Christmas themed food items, kitschy gifts, even baked goods.
So before you get caught up in the hustle and bustle surrounding the holidays, here’s a quick checklist of things to do to get yourself ready for the holiday season. If you start early, you can still avoid the Christmas rush!
Things to do at work before you leave for the holidays
❏ Make sure that your projects are on track – work on your priority projects first but don’t drop the ball on your other projects.
❏ File for a leave – let them know how long you’ll be gone and when you’re expected back
❏ Delegate work and make it clear who’s leading the team while you’re gone. Designate a POC (Point of Contact person) who can answer work questions for you.
❏ Decide who gets your contact number – tip: not everyone should have it. Remember, no one wants to be bothered while on vacation. The less people know your contact number, the more you can enjoy your holiday.
Things to do if you’re traveling for the holidays
❏ Decide where you’re going to stay: hotel, Airbnb, staying with family?
❏ Book your accommodations well before the expected arrival date – will save you on cost and is less stressful than trying to book closer to the date.
❏ Check your car, supplies, gear, tickets, passport, etc.
❏ You might want to arrange for a pet or house sitter.
❏ Don’t forget your utility bills!
Things to do for Family, Friends and You
❏ Get Christmas gifts and host gifts if you’re staying in someone’s home.
❏ Check your budget – you don’t want to blow all your money on one holiday.
❏ Think about what food you want to prepare for Christmas and New Year. Don’t try to make everything yourself. Store bought is ok.
How do you prepare for the holidays? What other items do you think should be on this checklist? Share them with us in the comments. Stay humble, hustle hard.
Written by Jaie O. The Help