December is almost here, but there are still a few weeks to get through before we can take a break for the festive season.
For many businesses, the final quarter is the busiest time of year. From meeting year-end targets to preparing for the coming year, there are often loads of extra things on your plate. This means that by the time you actually get to the holidays, you’re often too tired to enjoy it. Don’t let year-end burnout stop you from spending quality time with your nearest and dearest.
How to give yourself extra breathing room this December
- Figure out what you need to get done and outsource the rest. Whether it’s work-related or part of your holiday planning, sit down and make a list of what you need to achieve by when. Ask team members at the office to pick up a few simple tasks and talk to your family about smaller errands, like informing your service providers if you’ll be out the country or taking out travel insurance to protect your most valuable assets.
- Rethink your “dream holiday”. Instead of worrying about packing up the kids, getting the car serviced or collecting vital travel documents from government departments, consider staying at home this year. The rise of the “staycation” among South Africans over recent years has been driven by economic factors and the high costs of travelling during December. Staying at home this festive season might help you consolidate your financial plans and give you that necessary breather before January arrives.
- Plan what you’ll do with your year-end bonus – and then commit to it. So often, we think about how we’ll spend our bonus a hundred different ways before it’s even in our accounts. And before you know it, it’s already been spent on family dinners or extravagant Christmas presents. Make a plan to re-invest your bonus in something like a 30-day notice account as soon as it’s paid, so that when the time comes, the money is right where you left it.
What else can you do to make sure January is a resounding success?
- Take time off. Even if it’s just a few days. Give yourself time to recharge and reflect.
- Do something you love. Whether it’s reading a book or relaxing by the pool, find time for yourself outside of family responsibilities.
- Take a digital detox. Activate your out-of-office service and mute work WhatsApp groups. Really enjoy your time away from the office so that you’re rearing to go in January.
- Plan your return. Give yourself an extra day before returning to work to clear your inbox and start the year on a fresh foot.
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