Slowing Down the Holiday Rush: A Mindful Approach to December

December approaches very fast, and before you know it, it will be January – the longest month of the year. We’ll find ourselves wondering how December passed by so fast. I usually save most of my leave days for December for two reasons. Work-wise, I can be away for a longer duration without pressure from work, and the other reason is that I can spend time with family as everyone is more available in December.

Unfortunately, the fact that most of my leave days fall in December means that I plan to do almost everything I’ve not had the time or chance to do throughout the year. Do you see the challenge? December already has its expectations and challenges, leaving little space to fulfill other desires. And I believe this is a common experience for many of us—no wonder it flies by so fast.

Of course, it’s not only our plans that make it pass so quickly; it’s also the festive mood around. When things are happy, time tends to fly by. This December, I hope to try doing things differently. I hope to make a plan and have deadlines for the very specific things I hope to achieve. I hope to do this to avoid the apathy that comes in January when you ask yourself, “What really happened in December, and how come I never got to do this or that?”Creating a December Plan

To make the most of December, start by setting clear and realistic goals. Here’s a strategy to help you plan effectively:

Identify Priorities: List down the key areas you want to focus on. These could be family time, personal projects, relaxation, or self-care. Recognize that you can't do everything, so choose what's most important to you. If it’s a specific project, get realistic on how much you can achieve in that project in December. Don’t overburden yourself in what you know will not be possible.

Set Specific Goals: Instead of vague intentions, set specific, measurable goals. For instance, instead of saying, "I want to read more," decide on a number of books or a schedule for reading. If you intend to visit friends or family, schedule a date or time and inform them.
Create a Timeline: Break down your goals into manageable tasks and set deadlines for each. Allocate time slots for different activities, ensuring you balance work, family, and personal projects. We lose more time when we postpone things thinking we still have ample time left to do them, but with a schedule, we’re more likely to do them.
Involve Your Family: If spending time with family is a priority, involve them in your planning. This not only ensures you spend quality time together but also helps you manage expectations and responsibilities. Buy-in from them will make your lives much easier.
Plan for Flexibility: While it’s great to have a plan, December often brings unexpected events and changes. Leave some buffer time in your schedule to accommodate spontaneity and relaxation.

Staying Present During the Festive Season

The festive mood can make time seem to fly, but being mindful can help you savor each moment:

Be Mindful: Take a few moments each day to pause and appreciate your surroundings. Whether it's the joy of decorating a tree, the taste of festive food, or the laughter of loved ones, being present helps you make the most of your time.

Limit Distractions: During family gatherings or personal time, try to limit distractions such as work emails or social media. Be fully present in the moment.

Create Traditions: Establishing family traditions can make the holiday season more meaningful. Whether it's a game night, a movie marathon, or a baking session, these traditions can create lasting memories.

Reflecting and Preparing for January

To avoid the January blues, take some time at the end of December to reflect on your achievements and plan for the new year:

Celebrate Successes: Acknowledge and celebrate what you accomplished, no matter how small. This positive reflection can boost your mood and motivation.

Learn from Shortcomings: If there were things you couldn’t achieve, reflect on why. Was it a lack of time, and resources, or maybe unrealistic expectations? Use these insights to plan better for the future.

Set New Year Goals: Start thinking about your goals for the new year. Having a plan in place can give you a sense of direction and purpose, making the transition into January smoother.
Conclusion

December doesn’t have to be a blur of activities and unmet expectations. By setting clear goals, creating a balanced plan, and staying present, you can make the most of this festive season. Reflect on your experiences and use them to prepare for a fulfilling new year. This way, you’ll not only enjoy December more but also start January with a sense of accomplishment and readiness.

By taking a thoughtful and strategic approach to December, you can transform this busy month into a time of joy, achievement, and meaningful connection, paving the way for a positive and productive new year.

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