Creating a strong work/life balance is a challenge even when it’s not the holidays. Add in broad social obligations and holiday stress, and the months between November and January can be a real mess. But with some planning and prioritization you can make it happen. Here’s how you can make the most of your holidays this year.

1. Prioritize Your Festivities

Spending time with family who may not get along and dancing around social niceties while you run into old acquaintances and neighbors out of a sense of social obligation can be trying, even for the most patient types. In addition to the need to be social and jolly for two long months, coming up with and purchasing creative gifts that tell your loved ones exactly what they mean to you adds an extra layer of financial stress to the holidays. The pressure alone to buy a nice present for each of your family members is enough to make some want to hibernate through the holiday season. And of course, holiday travel is its own special brand of torture.

So, make sure you’re only doing the work you want to be doing. Say no to the parties you don’t want to go to (or host). Pair down on the decorations or the presents you need to buy. Don’t feel pressured to overextend yourself simply because it’s the holiday season. Remember what’s important to you, and prioritize.

2. Remember Why the Holidays Are Special

In the rush to do everything possible to celebrate, it’s easy to forget why we do. Depending on what holidays you celebrate and what your family or cultural traditions are, meaning is different from person to person. For most of us, the holidays are about spending time with the people who are important to us, coming together and being thankful for all we have, and celebrating the conclusion and beginning of another year. Keep those thoughts in mind when things get stressful and when life seems more hectic than it should be.

3. Get Started Early

If you have a lot of responsibilities to manage over the holidays, it’s smart to take care of business as early as possible. Before things get crazy (think mid-October or earlier) make a plan so you know what to expect during the November – December timeframe. If you think you will be traveling, either to visit family or take a vacation, make arrangements and buy your tickets as early as you can. Make a plan that pins down your family and holiday obligations. Figuring things out at the last minute not only costs you undue stress, but also undue prices.

4. Take Time Off (If You Can)

If you work for a company that offers workplace flexibility or if you can take some time off out right, do it. It’s important to take time to recharge, whether it’s with family and friends or some time for yourself, make sure you have the energy to hit the ground running in 2019.

Ready to find balance in your career?

If you are looking for a better work-life balance, it might be time to connect with the agriculture recruitment experts. Contact Ag 1 Source today.