There's no doubt, year-end stress can zap you. With the new year upon us, here's a quick little check in to see if your "cup" is half-full or half-empty. Amid all the distractions, it is hard to get back to the center and operate from a position of strength. You may feel stuck in the mire of daunting year-end deadlines, new year planning, and post-holiday celebrating and spending. The holidays do not need to be a stressful time. Instead, use this time to gain momentum for the new year. Here we go:
1. Tune out responsibly.
Do only one thing at a time and give it your full attention. I know, shocker. Seriously, let your mind luxuriate in focusing on only one task or one person at a time. Don’t feel guilty about giving yourself space to give something your all. Everything will get done, and maybe, you'll be more relaxed as you do it.
2. Set strong boundaries.
If you are the owner of a small business, chances are you run yourself pretty thin most of the time. Now is the time to set some serious boundaries for yourself. Delegation isn't always easy, but it is necessary. As is protecting your personal time, or work time. It's okay to say no to certain tasks or asks.
3. Don’t forget to breathe.
You have much to accomplish and little time. Relax. Stay positive. Take your 15-minute breaks now and then to clear your mind. Go for a walk. Read a chapter of an inspiring book. Listen to your favorite uplift song. Give your brain a break! It needs rejuve-time just like your legs do after a punishing run. You're taking care of everyone, all the time. Be good to you too!
4. Jot down your holiday wish list, and stick to it.
Setting goals is critical to success. If may be easy for us to do regarding our health, or our business goals, but do we give our holiday time the same consideration? Do you want the same-old/same-old holiday stress or can you make it an intentional holiday, filled with all the goodies that don't add pounds to your body? Decide what really needs to be accomplished and then make it shine!
5. You'll find meaning when you look for it.
Step back and focus on what really matters. Is it business success? Work-life balance? Your family or faith? Seeking this through the holiday can help lift your spirits. Perhaps you consider doing something new like volunteering or making a charitable donation. Sponsor a family during the holiday or learn a new dance move. Whatever it is, seek ways to bring deeper meaning to the time. M.D. Eger, in No Excuse for Failure, tells us, "Find your purpose daily, and live life to the fullest, and never give up." Sound good?
It's hard to remember, but important...you have a choice! Every hour, every day. 'Tis the season to be jolly for some, yes, but also, all can be calm and all can be bright too. Amidst the busy, busy, busy, be sure to slow down and enjoy yourself in the process. The old year is finished. Good, bad, or wonderful. The new year is ahead, waiting for you to accelerate into it re-energized and ready for whatever lies ahead.
At All In One Accounting, we take businesses from financial chaos to business clarity and beyond. Our elite team of Accountants, Controllers and CFOs are ready to help you in these uncertain times. Contact for a FREE consultation with one of our accounting professionals.