How to Stay Sane in December and Get Everything Done: 5 Planning Tips

December can feel like a whirlwind, but good planning can make it manageable.

December can be overwhelming, but a solid plan can help you manage tasks and enjoy the season stress-free. Here's how:

• Make a Complete To-Do List

Write down all your tasks for the month—big and small. Divide them into work and personal categories, or combine them if the list is manageable. Be specific: instead of "clean the house," break it into detailed steps like decluttering, organizing, or replacing old items. Use a digital format for easy edits. Add even minor tasks, like fixing small issues around the house, as they can become major inconveniences later.

• Prioritize and Plan

Highlight must-do tasks like doctor visits, holiday shopping, or decorating. Assign deadlines and spread tasks across the month. Break larger ones into smaller steps; for example, booking a salon appointment may be a separate task from attending it. Include buffer time in your schedule for unforeseen delays. Once high-priority items are in place, fit less urgent tasks into the remaining slots, and don't hesitate to postpone or skip non-essential ones if necessary.

• Schedule Time to Rest

Avoid burnout by treating rest as a top priority. Dedicate blocks of time for relaxation, such as half a day each week or a full day mid-month. Keep a list of enjoyable activities that help you recharge, like watching movies, cooking, or exercising. When it's time to rest, do what feels best—whether it's ticking off fun items from your list or simply unwinding on the couch.

• Work at Your Own Pace

Ignore arbitrary deadlines, like when to decorate or send holiday greetings. Do things when it's convenient for you. Spread out tasks like gift-giving or festive preparations across several days to simplify timing. Your pace should suit your lifestyle, not external expectations.

• Be Flexible and Delegate

Expect plans to shift. Aim to complete critical tasks by December 20 to leave room for adjustments. Delegate where possible, such as ordering groceries online or splitting errands with family. Simplify plans if needed—focus on a lighter holiday meal, or delay projects like reorganizing a wardrobe until January.

Above all, remember that the new year will come, no matter how much you accomplish. Focus on enjoying the season and setting yourself up for a productive start to the year ahead.