5 Holiday Organization Tips for a Stress-Free Season
If you're feeling a bit anxious with the holidays right around the corner, you're definitely not alone. With Thanksgiving falling so late this year, it’s easy to feel like we've lost a whole week of prep time for the December festivities. But the good news is: with a little organization and a few simple strategies, you can make this holiday season smoother, less stressful, and even a little more enjoyable.
Whether you're hosting, shopping, or simply trying to keep up with it all, I’ve got 5 holiday organization tips for a stress-free season! Let me help to make this holiday season memorable—for all the right reasons.
Create a Plan with Lists
The holiday season can easily feel overwhelming, but I find that one of the best ways to stay on top of things is to have a plan, and for me, that includes starting with a list! Whether it's gifts, groceries, or holiday tasks, writing it all down helps keep things organized and on track.
Gifts:
Prioritize what needs to be shipped first
Wrap as you go to stay organized and on track
Grocery Shopping:
Create a detailed list of everything you need
Pick up non-perishable items early
Daily Tasks:
Create a daily task list before your guests arrive, including key chores like changing beds, grocery shopping, cleaning, and laundry.
Keep this list handy to stay on track and ensure nothing important is overlooked.
As you check off your tasks, I promise that you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment and control—something we all can use during this busy time of year!
2. Break Down Big Tasks Into Manageable Steps
I’ve found that the key to staying stress-free during the holidays is breaking down big tasks into manageable steps. Trying to do everything at once can feel exhausting, but spreading things out can make a huge difference.
For holiday shopping, try tackling one store or one type of gift at a time, and start early in the morning to avoid crowds.
When it comes to decorating, focus on one area at a time. Start with the outside of your home and work your way inside, breaking tasks like stringing lights, tree trimming and table setting into separate days.
For baking, I recommend breaking the process into stages—prep your cookie dough ahead of time and freeze it, then bake and decorate in batches to avoid feeling rushed. Focusing on smaller, specific tasks will really help you stay organized and keep holiday stress to a minimum.
3. Get Family On Board
The holidays can be a whirlwind—there was one year when I had 16 days in a row with guests—so I’ve learned a few tricks to survive and stay organized! When most of your guests are family, these tips can help you manage the chaos while keeping things festive and fun.
Start by planning a menu for all three meals, beginning with what you'll serve the moment your guests arrive. Knowing exactly what you’ll be cooking takes a huge load off your shoulders and reduces stress by 99%.
Before your guests arrive, ask about their usual breakfast preferences, but don’t feel pressured to serve a fancy breakfast every day! Most people appreciate having familiar breakfast options and the freedom to eat when they want.
Involve your guests by asking them to help with meal prep, cleaning, or other tasks during mealtime. This keeps everyone engaged and makes them feel useful, while you stay organized.
Keep as much of your normal routine as possible, even with the added holiday hustle. Whether it’s a quick workout or your dog’s daily walk, sticking to your routine helps keep stress in check.
Involve your guests when appropriate—ask someone to help with tasks like walking the dog or emptying the dishwasher if you’re feeling stretched. Sometimes, just getting a little help can make all the difference in keeping the holiday spirit intact!
4. Plan for Unexpected Challenges
Planning ahead for unexpected challenges will make a huge difference when you’re hosting or managing a busy schedule. I would start by menu planning, including meal preferences for any guests, so you’re not left scrambling at the last minute. Having a clear plan for all meals, from breakfast to dinner, will help keep things running smoothly.
But even with the best plans, life is bound to have a few hiccups—late deliveries, missing ingredients, or weather-related delays. That’s why it’s always a good idea to have a backup plan in place. A great option is keeping a few gift cards on hand for takeout or having extra meals in the freezer, so you can stay flexible and stress-free, no matter what holiday surprises come your way.
5. Delegate to Create Space for What Matters
If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed with tasks like cleaning, shopping, or meal prep, consider bringing in professionals who can take these responsibilities off your plate. By outsourcing tasks, you will free up time and energy to focus on what matters—whether it’s spending time with family, or taking a well-deserved break. I like to remind my clients that delegating doesn’t mean you're giving up control; it’s prioritizing your well-being and creating balance in your life.
Remember, while organization is always a win, it’s important to remain flexible and kind to yourself when things don’t go as planned. The holidays can be chaotic, but with the right mindset, you and your loved ones will have a peaceful and enjoyable season. Whether you’re hosting guests, preparing meals, or juggling a busy schedule, a little planning can go a long way in reducing stress.
At Transformare Organizing, we love to help you stay organized, calm, and to focus on what truly matters—enjoying the season with loved ones. Reach out to schedule a session or get a gift certificate for someone who could use a little extra holiday help. Wishing you a stress-free, joyful holiday season filled with love and laughter!