Organizing For the Holidays

Tis the season to be jolly so they say. In a few short weeks another holiday will have come and gone. There is so much to do in so little time. It can leave you stressed and strapped for cash. Here are some time management tips to help you keep your sanity so the joy can be kept in your world.

1. Start early. Why wait for Black Friday or Cyber Monday? You can catch great deals and have a better chance of getting the gift of the century while the inventory is high.

2. Keep to the budget. Set a budget that won't strap you for cash. Mint.com has an app that helps you to track your expenditures. The app will also alert you to spending and advise you about where your money is going.

3. Let people make their own shopping lists. Many online retailers have a wish list your loved one can complete and share taking the guess work out of it. You can get a text sent directly to your mobile device and never have to search for a list again.

3. Eat a full meal prior to shopping. Bad choices are usually made when you are hungry. We have a tendency to rush and wind up malnourished. This usually leaves us eating take out or fast food which may cause us to make poor nutritional judgements. We need a clear head while out there with the multitudes.

4. Get up early to shop or go later when there are no crowds. Most stores have early or extended hours to fit any schedule. Avoid rush hour to reduce road rage and stressed out shoppers.

5. Keep boot, coat boxes, or large containers to store giftwrap and presents.

6. Get the whole family in on it. Split the shopping list designating an item to each person. Make it fun by playing Amazing Race, the first to come back at the central meeting place with the item wins a special treat.

Remember that this time is supposed to be happy. If you find yourself moody or miserable it's time to reassess your priorities. Take the time to stand under the mistletoe, smell the pine trees, or have a cup of hot cocoa. Remembering the reason for the season will give you the greatest joy there is. Relax, it will be over before you know it.