Organizing Tips for the Holidays | Cumberland Crossing

The holidays are well underway, and with it comes the wonderful (and sometimes, admittedly, stressful) chaos of the season. Taking simple steps to get organized ahead of the holidays will help you enjoy what matters most: slowing down, spending quality time with loved ones, and reflecting on the year past. Time moves so quickly during the hustle and bustle of the holidays – don’t spend it worrying about running out of Hanukkah candles or where your Christmas ornaments are stashed! Instead, keep reading for some helpful organizing tips for the holidays.

1. Plan Ahead

Perhaps the most obvious tip is to start planning for the holiday season in advance! Getting a grasp on any events or engagements you may have, such as travel plans, holiday parties, or hosting guests, will help you stay ahead of the game. Be sure you also schedule in a few “rest” days to help keep the balance!

2. Make Lists

Making lists is a great way to stay organized any time of year, but especially so during the holidays! Anything you need to get done can go on its own categorized list: gift shopping, meal ingredients, travel plans, holiday cards – you name it. Take it a step further by keeping all of your lists in a specific holiday binder! That way, you can easily access any information you need all in one place.

3. Set Deadlines

Though this may seem over the top for holiday organizing, it will help you stay on top of your list! Creating realistic deadlines helps you prioritize what needs to be done and in what order, so you’re not scrambling at the last minute to try and get important things done. For example, if you’re mailing gifts to family in another state, determine how long it will take with holiday shipping to arrive and work backwards to set a deadline they need to be mailed by. This can be applied to anything holiday-related and is sure to help you avoid stress throughout the season.

4. Involve Others

Don’t feel like you have to do everything on your own! If you’re able, delegate tasks out to family and friends to help break up the list of to-do items. Putting up decorations, cooking meals, wrapping gifts – whatever it may be, don’t be afraid to ask for help!

5. Prioritize Self-Care

Being run down (or worse, sick) during the holidays is no fun for anyone! Make taking care of your mind and body a priority this season, even if it’s difficult. There will always feel like there is more to do, but try to fit in time for self-care, whatever that may mean for you. Eat nutritious foods, get plenty of rest, move your body – even simply reading a few chapters of a book to wind your brain down can make all the difference.

6. Don’t Forget What Truly Matters

This final tip is perhaps the most important one of all. There is a certain magic that can only be found during this time of year, and there is nothing like celebrating with loved ones and being thankful for what we have and those we care about. Slowing down and being mindful of this is truly the best way to enjoy your holidays!

Cumberland Crossing by OceanView

Located just miles from the beautiful city of Portland, Cumberland Crossing by OceanView is an active retirement community offering the best independent living in Southern Maine. Choose from two sustainable, spacious cottages floor plans that are customizable to your unique needs and taste. With an inclusive monthly maintenance fee, you can worry less about the burdens of homeownership and spend your retirement years simply enjoying yourself!

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