Almost Christmas! Top 10 Quick Holiday Hacks to Save Time This Week
The endless to-do lists, shopping, decorating, and planning during the holidays can be overwhelming, despite their magical nature. To help you streamline your week and enjoy more of the holiday cheer, here are 10 quick holiday hacks to save you time and reduce stress.
1. Streamline Your Shopping List
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Take a moment to organize your gift list by categories: family, friends, coworkers, etc. Use online tools or apps like Trello or Google Keep to keep track of your progress. To save time, stick to one or two stores or shop online with guaranteed delivery by Christmas.
2. Wrap Smarter, Not Harder
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Set up a wrapping station at home with all your supplies in one place. Use gift bags and tissue paper for oddly shaped items or bulk gifts to save time. Bonus: buy neutral-colored wrapping paper that works for multiple occasions.
3. Plan Easy Meals
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Cooking elaborate meals every night is a recipe for burnout. Plan a few simple, crowd-pleasing dishes like casseroles, soups, or sheet pan dinners. Use grocery delivery or curbside pickup to avoid busy holiday store lines.
4. Declutter Before Gifts Arrive
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Take an hour to declutter areas where new gifts will go, such as toy bins, closets, or shelves. Donate or discard items you no longer need to make room for incoming presents.
5. Pre-Decorate Gift Bags
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For hostess gifts or last-minute exchanges, have pre-decorated gift bags filled with simple items like candles, chocolates, or small potted plants. They’re quick to grab on the go and save you from last-minute scrambling.
6. Batch Your Errands
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Rather than making multiple trips out, plan all your errands for one outing. Map out the most efficient route and tackle it all at once. This saves time, gas, and your sanity.
7. Automate Holiday Greetings
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Instead of handwriting dozens of holiday cards, consider using services like Paperless Post or Canva to send digital cards. Personalize them with heartfelt messages to keep the sentiment intact while saving time.
8. Create a Holiday Command Center
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Designate a spot in your home for all holiday-related tasks. Keep your gift list, receipts, stamps, and decorations in one place to avoid hunting them down when you’re short on time.
9. Schedule “You” Time
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Amid the hustle, don’t forget to pencil in moments for self-care. Whether it’s a quick coffee break, a workout, or simply relaxing with a holiday movie, taking time for yourself ensures you’ll have the energy to enjoy the season.
10. Say “No” When Necessary
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It’s easy to overcommit during the holidays, but your time is precious. Politely decline activities or events that feel more like an obligation than a joy. Focus on what truly matters to you and your family.
It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year
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By incorporating these practical hacks into your week, you’ll find it easier to stay organized, minimize stress, and focus on the joy of the season. Happy holidays!
