The holidays are here, and I know how busy this season can be. That’s why I want to share some holiday planning tips that keep both your home and business running smoothly. As a mom of two and a business owner, I’ve learned that planning ahead doesn’t just make things easier—it makes the holidays more joyful.
When my kids were younger, December was a blur of school concerts, sports banquets, and late-night baking. I used to think I could “wing it,” but that never worked. I’d end up tired, stressed, and behind on business tasks. Over time, I discovered that a few small steps could turn that chaos into calm. These same holiday planning tips have helped me stay focused and actually enjoy the season, both as a mom and as a leader.
1. Start with Simple Lists
I love a good list. Whether it’s for gifts, grocery shopping, or client projects, writing it down clears space in my mind. I keep a notebook with three sections—home, family, and business. Every morning, I take a few minutes to review it and mark my top three priorities.
This little ritual helps me focus. When everything feels like “too much,” a simple list brings clarity. I can see what truly matters and what can wait until after the holidays.
2. Plan Your Work Schedule Early
One of the best holiday planning tips I can share is to plan your work calendar before the season gets hectic. I sit down in mid-November and block out key dates for both my business and family events.
If my kids have a school play, I block that time first. Then I schedule client meetings, live sessions, and project deadlines around those personal moments. When I do this early, I don’t feel guilty later. I can be fully present with my family, knowing my business tasks are already planned out.
3. Automate and Delegate
As women business owners, we often feel like we have to do it all—but we don’t. Automation is a gift. Schedule your social media posts in advance, set up auto-replies for email, and use tools that help you manage tasks.
I also lean on my family for help. My kids help with holiday prep—wrapping gifts, setting the table, even brainstorming fun social media ideas for my business. Including them makes it more meaningful and less stressful.
And if you have a team, delegate! Give them the chance to shine while you take a step back. Trust me, your business will still thrive, even when you’re not checking your inbox every hour.
4. Set Realistic Goals
The end of the year often brings pressure to “finish strong.” I used to cram too much into December, thinking I could do it all. However, over the years, I’ve learned to set realistic goals that align with the season.
Instead of launching new projects, I focus on completing existing ones. I take time to reflect on what worked this year and what I want to change for next year. This pause helps me create better plans with clearer direction when January arrives.
You don’t need to do more to be successful—you just need to be intentional.
5. Make Time for Joy
Joy is fuel. When you’re happy, your creativity flows and your leadership feels natural. So, make space for joy this season. Watch holiday movies with your kids, bake cookies, take a walk with your partner, or have coffee with a friend.
For me, joy often comes from quiet moments—such as lighting a candle in the morning, journaling about gratitude, or ending the day with a brief reflection. These small rituals keep me grounded and remind me why I started my business: to create freedom, flexibility, and joy, not burnout.
6. Reflect and Reset
Once the decorations come down and the house grows quiet again, I like to take a moment to reflect. I ask myself three questions:
What brought me joy this season?
What stressed me out, and how can I simplify it next year?
What would I like to have more of in the coming year?
These reflections guide my January planning and keep my business aligned with my life.
7. Give Yourself Grace
Finally, give yourself grace. You’re doing amazing. Balancing family, business, and holiday cheer isn’t easy, but you’re doing it. Remember, the goal isn’t perfection—it’s peace. If something doesn’t go as planned, that’s okay. The holidays are about connection, not completion.
This season, I hope you take these holiday planning tips to heart. Plan ahead, stay focused, and create moments that fill your heart with joy. Your business will thank you, and so will your family.
If you have questions or need support with business planning, please schedule a free clarity session with me. Click here to schedule now.
