The following is a guest post from regular contributor, Morgan from Morganize with Me.
I’m like a broken record, I always find myself saying the same thing. “Keep It Simple!” I say it so often that I have turned the saying into my own personal tagline. It’s why I’m always using the acronym “KISS” (Keep It Simple Sisters).
Simple means more margin, more space for the whoops in life, and less things you have to do. (I’m talking to myself here, I’m the one that spilled an entire cup of coffee on my couch this morning, the same couch that my husband just completely cleaned. #whoops)
With the month of December knocking on the door, it’s the perfect (and necessary) time to take a deep breath and to ask yourself, “Am I keeping things simple?” Simplicity is a gift. It will give you the gift of time and space. (Things we all need!) To help get your simplicity brainstorming muscles working, I’m going to give you three simple areas you can focus on to, say it with me sisters, simplify!
Three Tips to Keep the Holidays Simple
Simple Days
The end of the year can be the busiest time of the year. So…work to stay in front of your commitments and to not over commit yourself (or your family). It’s better to be underwhelmed than overwhelmed. Most great holiday memories happen more spur of the moment. Use your time intentionally to create more memories. By protecting the margins in your life, you’ll be more likely to make more fond memories. Time is a gift, so make sure that you give it and save it intentionally.
Simple Gifts
Shopping for gifts can be really fun! And, let’s be honest, a little stressful too. What size does she wear? Does he still have that hobby? Is that still her favorite color? When would he really ever use this? Aren’t these all questions that run through your mind?
Well, simplify this year, and focus instead on giving gifts from the heart. I’m not saying purchased gifts are not gifts from the heart, but keep in mind what people instead need from you. Gifts such as time, attention, and service. (If you haven’t seen it yet, check out the IKEA “The Other Letter” on YouTube…tears.) Keeping it simple means, keeping the focus on presence more than presents.
Simple Traditions
This is something I would have told my younger self. Don’t start “daily” traditions. Just don’t! Eventually those “daily” traditions will become overwhelming. They sound so cute and fun when you read about them and see all the cute Pinterest ideas, but then YOU have to be the one actually hiding the Elf and being creative about it too! (I’m the one who has had numerous Tooth Fairy fails, and “she” only needs to make a rare appearance.)
My kids haven’t even asked about the Elf and I (or course) have not brought it up either. If you like staging the Elf, keep on keeping on! If you haven’t, really think about if you want that commitment. Or whatever tradition you’ve thought about… (This is coming from the mom who is still typing up daily advent “fun activities” for 25 days every December. Whose idea was that? Oh, that’s right, mine.) Tread lightly with traditions so you can keep the fun in the mix, and not just the function.
Tell Me: What is one thing YOU really want this year? Besides simplicity, of course!
Morgan is the energetic and motivated, but also realistic girl, behind Morganize with Me. She is a list lover, fitness fan, and chaos controller! Her mission is to share tried and true techniques that she hopes will encourage her readers and clients as they focus on their health and homes. Join one of her Challenges and be sure to check out her Shop full of fabulous organizing printables!
Ducks n a Row says
Even the word “simple” brings an “ahh” response from me. I automatically exhale and relax just a little bit.
Laura Wittmann says
Isn’t that the truth, I feel the same way 🙂
Stephanie L says
When my husband asked what I want for Christmas, I told him massage. I have a connective tissue disease and massage is imperative, but not covered by insurance.
Morgan says
I think that sounds like the perfect gift! I hope you get it. 🙂