We can all agree that December can be a hectic time of year, especially if you are side hustling in addition to working your full-time job. Running a side business while working full-time can be exhausting on its own. Add to that a month filled with numerous holiday events and obligations, and you have the recipe for a stress-induced meltdown.
Rather than succumbing to stress and burnout this month, use these methods to ensure balance between your work and holiday obligations. You’ve worked hard all year long, and deserve to enjoy yourself while meeting your deadlines at the same time.
Make a schedule
Create a schedule that includes all of your day job, side hustle, and holiday responsibilities. Looking at all of your commitments in one place will help you stay organized and can be useful in planning your work for the month. Seek out free time in your schedule that you can devote to specific projects and tasks. Consider putting in extra work up front, especially during the lulls in your schedule, so that you can free up time for other events and obligations.
For example, if you know you are going to be busy with family and friends the last two weekends of the month, try front loading your time during the first two weekends of the month. By getting ahead on your work, you’ll be able to relax and enjoy your events without feeling the pressure of looming due dates and deadlines.
Use Your Time Wisely
Knowing that the month ahead will be busy, make sure you’re using your free time wisely. Rather than getting sucked into prime time television, focus your efforts on productive activities. Remember there will be time for television once things slow down, but for now, it’s important to make the most of the time you have.
When it comes to managing your time effectively, it’s important to resist the urge to multitask. Focusing on one project at a time allows you to efficiently move from one task to another. Instead of feeling overwhelmed by all that you need to accomplish, you’ll feel organized and energized.
This rule carries over into your personal time as well. Make sure that the time you carve out for work is focused primarily on work related tasks, and the time you make for family and friends is focus on them. Don’t bring your laptop to a holiday event and try to squeeze in a little work. Enjoy your family and friends and make the most of your time with them.
Work smarter
Take advantage of tools and applications that you can use to automate tasks. For example, schedule blog posts, automate social media marketing, and set up bill pay and financial tasks ahead of time.
Slow Down and Enjoy
Set realistic expectations of yourself this time of year and adjust your goals accordingly. If you can work it into your schedule, take a break from your side hustle activities to spend more time with your family. If you aren’t able to step away from your side hustle, consider taking a personal day off from your full-time job to catch up, so that you can enjoy a little down time during the holidays. Most importantly, take care of yourself this holiday season. Too much stress can lead to illness and then you won’t be able to get your work done nor spend time with you family. Take time to slow down a little and enjoy the holiday season.
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Automation is key. I try to automate as much as possible. If you don’t already use it, try out coschedule.com really awesome for social media and blogging. Helps a ton.
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Very cool. Thanks for sharing!