SAIL THROUGH THE SILLY SEASON STRESS-FREE

Sharon Templeton here, and as the year winds down, the festive hustle and bustle begins. The end of the year can sometimes feel like a marathon with holiday preparations, wrapping up work, and managing those year-end reflections, and like every year we say “where has this year gone”

So, how do we keep our cool and stay bright-eyed during this jolly (but oh-so-busy) season? Fret not, for I’ve got your back!

Let’s explore some life-saving tips to help you stay calm, collected, and absolutely radiant during the year-end whirlwind.

PRIORITISE SELF-CARE AND SAY ‘NO’ MORE

YOU MUST come first! I know it can be hard, but try not to spread yourself too thin. You can do this by saying NO more often, and only choosing to do the things that really matter to you. No, is a complete sentence. Remember, you can’t be everything to be everything to everybody! It’s ok to be a little selfish.

GET ORGANISED

I have always found, it’s better out of my head than in! I write my self lists, love a good list helps me prioritise and break down tasks. So channel that inner list-maker in you and make a list of tasks, presents to buy, and holiday prep. Breaking tasks into smaller chunks makes them less daunting and gives you the satisfaction of ticking them off! 

EMBRACE IMPERFECTION

Try not to put too much pressure on yourself. This Christmas, like the one before it and the one before that one, will come and go. It’s just ONE DAY and in the big scheme of things, it won’t matter much if things didn’t go to plan, or if you didn’t have time to buy that extra present for someone. 

The best thing I can say is… don’t set yourself up for disappointment. Expect less of yourself, of others… and you’ll be much happier for it.

INDULGE AND FORGET THE GUILT

It’s that one time of year where it feels like the longest time off for us all, where we get to eat and drink with our nearest and dearest, and take a moment to reflect on another year without any looming deadlines, so kick your feet up and enjoy! Enjoy those bubbles, eat all the yummy food, live your life you only get one shot at it. The only thing I’d add, is it’s important to stay hydrated, especially during those warmer days, so make sure you drink plenty of water. Your body will thank you for it.

SAVOUR THE MOMENT
Take a moment to pause and soak in the present moment. Cherish the twinkling lights, the laughter, and the warmth of the season. These moments are fleeting, so make them count. And like I said, the gift of your presence is so much more important than anything you can find in a store, so be present with the people you love and take time to really, truly connect. That’s what it’s all about.

Here’s to making the end of the year as joyful, peaceful, and stress-free as possible for YOU. 

Embrace the beauty of the season, spread love, and remember to always be kind to yourself and others.

x Sharon Templeton