10 Simple Things to Do Now for a Smoother December

The holiday season can quickly become overwhelming, but with a little preparation now, you can enjoy a stress-free December. By taking small steps like decluttering your home, organizing your schedule, and planning for holiday tasks, you’ll set yourself up for a smoother, more enjoyable month. From tidying your digital space to scheduling time with loved ones, simple actions today can make all the difference when the holiday rush begins. Start early, and make this December your best yet.

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Declutter Your Home

Taking the time to declutter your home now can make a huge difference as December approaches. By clearing out unnecessary items and organizing your space, you’ll create a more calming environment that will allow you to focus on the things that matter most during the busy holiday season. Start with small areas that often get overlooked, like kitchen countertops or entryway tables, where items tend to accumulate. Organizing these areas first will give you a sense of accomplishment and set a positive tone for larger projects.

As you move through your home, consider donating or discarding things you no longer need. This process not only creates physical space but also mental space, helping you feel less stressed when the holidays arrive. With less clutter, there is also more room for decorations and any gifts that may come in, allowing you to embrace the festive atmosphere fully. Decluttering now gives you the peace of mind to enjoy December without feeling truly overwhelmed by your surroundings.

Tidy Your Digital Spaces

Digital clutter can be just as overwhelming as physical clutter, but it’s often easier to ignore. Take some time to clean out your inbox, unsubscribe from unnecessary email lists, and organize your files into clear categories. Sorting through old documents, pictures, and apps now can save you from feeling overwhelmed when you need to find something important later. Additionally, organizing your digital space can help prevent the frustration of dealing with an overflowing inbox or hard-to-find files when you’re juggling holiday tasks.

Another useful step is to back up important files and photos, ensuring they are easily accessible if you need them during the busy holiday season. By tidying up your digital world, you’ll be able to navigate your online life with less stress, leaving you more time to focus on festive activities, holiday shopping, and connecting with loved ones. A clean digital space leads to a clearer mind, making it easier to manage December’s responsibilities.

Start Addressing Holiday Cards

Holiday cards are a beautiful way to spread joy, but they can become an overwhelming task if left to the last minute. Begin by writing out your cards now, making it a simple and enjoyable task rather than a rushed chore later. Take your time to personalize each card with a short note to your friends and family, which adds a heartfelt touch. By spreading this task out over a few days, you’ll avoid the stress of last-minute card writing and ensure each one is sent out in time for the holidays.

Additionally, getting your cards addressed and ready to send early will help you avoid the holiday mailing rush. You’ll be able to enjoy the festive season without the pressure of deadlines, and you’ll also have the satisfaction of knowing that your thoughtful gesture is already in the mail. Early preparation allows you to check off this task with ease and gives you more time to focus on other important activities.

Plan Holiday Activities in Advance

Planning some festive activities ahead of time will ensure that you make the most of December without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. Whether it’s baking holiday treats, visiting a light display, or setting up a movie marathon with loved ones, having these activities scheduled can bring much-needed joy and structure to your month. You don’t need to overplan, but setting aside time for fun, meaningful experiences can make the holidays feel more enjoyable and less chaotic.

Consider making a list of holiday traditions you’d like to continue or try for the first time, and then figure out the best days to fit them into your calendar. Having a plan in place for when and where these activities will happen helps prevent calendar conflicts and allows you to prioritize fun over stress. Whether it’s hosting a small holiday gathering or simply taking a walk to admire the neighborhood lights, planning can help you create lasting memories without feeling overwhelmed.

Organize Your Gift Shopping List

Get a head start on holiday shopping by making a list of everyone you need to buy for and what you would like to get them. Planning your gifts ahead of time not only helps ensure you don’t forget anyone, but it also allows you to stick to a budget and avoid the chaos of last-minute shopping. This is a great time to research sales, look for unique gifts, and take advantage of early discounts.

By organizing your shopping list and tracking your progress, you’ll be able to cross off tasks as you go, leaving you with more free time when the actual holiday season begins. Additionally, shopping early means you can spread out your purchases, making it easier to avoid overspending all at once. With a clear list and thoughtful planning, you can make your gift-giving even more meaningful while avoiding the stress that comes with procrastinating.

Prepare Your Home for Guests

The holiday season often means hosting friends and family, and preparing your home now can make that experience much more enjoyable. Begin by identifying areas of your home that need attention, whether it’s deep cleaning the guest bathroom or organizing the living room to create a welcoming space. Having a clean and organized environment will not only impress your guests but also reduce any last-minute panic when they arrive.

Think about stocking up on extra toiletries, ensuring the guest room is ready, and setting out festive touches like throw pillows or candles to make your home feel cozy and inviting. By preparing in advance, you can focus on spending quality time with your loved ones instead of scrambling to get everything ready at the last minute. You’ll have a smooth and stress-free hosting experience, allowing you to enjoy the season’s gatherings with ease.

Make Time for Self-Care

December can be a stressful time with all the preparations and responsibilities, so it’s crucial to carve out time for self-care. Whether it’s a warm bath, a morning walk, or simply sitting down with a cup of tea, setting aside moments for yourself throughout the month can help recharge your batteries. You’ll be better equipped to handle the busy holiday schedule and remain present when spending time with family and friends.

Self-care doesn’t have to be complicated; even small acts of relaxation can make a big difference. Prioritize sleep, practice mindfulness, or engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation. By permitting yourself to slow down, you’ll be able to face December with more energy and a calmer mindset.

Start Cooking or Baking Early

The holiday season is known for its delicious meals and treats, and preparing some of these in advance can help make the big day less stressful. Consider baking cookies, pies, or other festive treats early, then freezing them until you’re ready to serve. This way, you’ll avoid the stress of preparing everything at the last minute. You can also start on meal prep, such as chopping vegetables or marinating meats for holiday dinners.

By taking the time to cook or bake early, you’ll have more time to focus on spending quality moments with loved ones, rather than being stuck in the kitchen. This approach also allows you to enjoy the process of preparing meals without the rush, ensuring everything is ready and enjoyable when the time comes.

Set a Budget for Holiday Expenses

It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of the season and overspend, but creating a budget for your holiday expenses can keep you on track. Start by setting limits for gifts, decorations, meals, and any other holiday-related costs. This will help you manage your spending and avoid any post-holiday financial stress.

By sticking to a budget, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that you’re in control of your finances. Planning also allows you to get creative with gifts and activities, focusing on thoughtful and meaningful experiences rather than overspending. A clear financial plan means you can enjoy the holidays without the burden of debt hanging over your head.

Plan for Travel in Advance

If your holiday plans involve travel, it’s important to start preparing now. Whether you’re flying or driving, book your tickets early and look for the best deals to avoid last-minute stress. Make sure your accommodations are confirmed, and prepare a checklist of items to pack so you don’t forget anything essential.

Planning your travel ensures you can focus on enjoying your trip rather than worrying about last-minute arrangements. It also gives you the chance to choose the most convenient and cost-effective options, ensuring a smoother travel experience. By taking care of these details early, you can look forward to a relaxing and stress-free holiday journey.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.