“Time budgeting”—allocating time to tasks and activities so we don’t burn out—is more important than ever during the holidays, when even the most minimalist among us can take on too much, says organization and productivity expert Rashelle Isip of TheOrderExpert.com. Stay organized with this countdown calendar timed for maximum efficiency and seasonal fun!
December 1: Reflect on years past
To jog your memory, scroll through photos on your phone, taking note of which decorations looked great, which meals were “misses” and the traditions that brought the most joy.
December 2: Divvy up the decorating
Dedicate an afternoon to unpacking decor. Take time to test lights and allow faux garlands to settle, transfer ornaments to trays to minimize messes and save outdoor decor for another day.
December 3: Free day
December 4: Tackle your cards
“This task can get away from you because it has several parts, from selecting a design to updating addresses to mailing,” says Isip. Starting today makes for a calmer season.
December 5: Sidestep overspending
Sign up for a free trial you’ll take advantage of all month, whether it’s free grocery delivery or a streaming service to watch holiday movies. (Just be sure to cancel in January.)
December 6: Freeze cookie dough
“Form into balls, set on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then double-bag and freeze,” says Allison Mattina of CelebratingSweets.com. This treats guests to a greater variety of sweets.
December 7: Free day
December 8: Extend invitations
“Don’t be afraid to scale down large parties and think about your strengths,” says Isip. You might be better at brunch than a formal dinner, or prefer a movie night with snacks to a cocktail party.
December 9: Make a holiday playlist
Nothing creates a festive mood like Christmas music! Set aside an hour to sample different playlists or mix your favorites, whether you love Harry Connick Jr. or Elvis Presley.
December 10: Free day
December 11: Tackle your toughest chore
Whether it’s ironing table linens, washing platters or readying a guest room, “bundle it with something pleasurable, like listening to an audiobook,” says Isip.
December 12: Free day
December 13: Hack your holiday menu
Will oven space be tight? Do too many dishes require last-minute prep? Swap ’em for simpler options. Replace a fried app with no-cook bruschetta and plan on a self-serve punch bowl.
December 14: Pencil in some downtime
“Don’t be embarrassed to put ‘reality TV’ or ‘do nothing’ in your calendar,” says Isip. Pick up a holiday whodunit or soak in a peppermint-scented
bath.
December 15: Free day
December 16: Order a fresh turkey or ham
“Get in any special orders ASAP,” says Isip. “Some grocers require two weeks for a fresh turkey or ham, and charcuterie platters start selling out online right about now.”
December 17: Mail Christmas treats
Send ’em now by two-day post so they can be enjoyed the week before Christmas. To prevent crumbling, line a cookie tin with bubble wrap and nestle treats in cupcake liners.
December 18: Streamline your serving dishes
Set out the platters, gravy boats and bowls you’ll need and use sticky notes to label what will go in each. This helps you avoid looking for things as people are arriving!
December 19: Assemble a gift-opening kit
Grab scissors and a box cutter for hard-to-open gifts, plus a garbage bag for torn wrapping, and if you’re expecting any toys, set aside batteries to avoid scrambling later.
December 20: Create a quick, cute centerpiece
Dress up your holiday table with “found decor.” Take a nature walk to collect pine cones and arrange on a tray—or display extra ornaments in a pretty bowl.
December 21: Make your big grocery run
Wake up early to get your perishable shopping done when stores aren’t so busy. Before you go, scan the fridge and pantry for needed staples like marshmallows for hot cocoa.
December 22: Chop + prep now
Chopped onions, celery and carrots will keep for four days in the fridge, while cranberry sauce and homemade hummus last more than a week.
December 23: Free day
December 24: Shortcut tomorrow’s breakfast
Whip up a morning meal you can just pop in the oven, such as French toast or pancake casseroles, quiches and overnight cinnamon buns.
December 25: Set an intention to enjoy
Soak in the holiday by taking a few minutes for yourself. Curl up with a cup of cocoa, download a holiday meditation or jot down a Christmas wish in your journal.
