Ah the holidays… the season of twinkling lights, good cheer, time off, and fun times with family and friends.

Let’s just take a moment to be honest though, as much as I love the magic of the holidays, it’s also the season of packed parking lots, frenzied shopping, gift wrapping, cooking, remembering to move the elf (that darn elf), events and obligations – not to mention, packing a month’s worth of work into two or three weeks so that we can “enjoy” our vacations. In other words, the hustle and bustle of the holidays can often have us overextending ourselves and leaving us feeling drained and distracted during the most wonderful time of the year. With that in mind, I’ve compiled my favorite tips and reminders for prioritizing your health over the hustle.

1. Make a list (and check it twice).
List out everything that will need to be done (or attended) - both work and personal - this season. From there, break it down into weekly and/or daily tasks and plan out the time it will take you to do each. Taking the time to do this exercise serves two purposes. One, it helps you to remember all of the items on your list. Two, it will help you to identify areas where you may be overextended. Keep your list in a visible spot, and add/remove items as necessary. The best part? Crossing items off of your list as you accomplish them feels so good!

2. Practice doing one thing at a time.
For many, the ability to multitask has become a source of pride. However, multiple studies have shown that multitasking actually leads to tasks taking MORE time. In fact, according to the American Psychological Association, even brief mental blocks created by shifting between tasks can cost as much as 40% of someone's productive time. Another way to think about it is like this – when we’re doing more than one thing at a time, we aren’t dedicating our full attention to each task, which can lead to (sometimes costly) errors and rework. While from time to time it IS necessary, multitasking should be the exception, not the rule.

3. Turn off the alerts and notifications.
Nothing is more distracting, or can have you chasing a squirrel faster, than the multiple alerts and notifications that pop up on our desktops, phones, and watches. “But, Shannon,” you may argue, “some of those are necessary!” Well – then start by taking inventory of all of your alerts. I think you’ll agree the majority of them aren’t. Plus, is it really necessary to have an alert go off in three spots every time you get an email? Not only are they distractions, they can also be just plan rude if you’re in a meeting or spending time with friends or family. Whether true or not - constantly glancing at your phone or watch sends the signal that whatever is happening on your device is more important.

4. Ask for help when you need it. (And, allow yourself to say, “No.”)
I will admit that of all the items on this list – this is the one I personally struggle with the most. Asking for help can feel like failure. But what feels even worse is failing to accomplish something or letting someone down when you could have asked for help. If you’re feeling overwhelmed at work talk to your leader or a trusted colleague. Chances are there are items that can be reprioritized or resources available to help. Use your list from tip #1 to help you identify areas or tasks that could be better suited for others or where you could use an extra hand, teamwork makes the dream work!

Saying no to things can also be especially tough. When presented with yet another “thing” ask yourself; Do I capacity for this? Can I take something off my list and put this in its place? Is this an absolutely necessary thing/task/event?

If the answer to any of those is no, then it’s perfectly OK to say no to the request. OR, to ask for the resources or help necessary in order to accommodate it. In the case of holiday events, there’s almost always the chance you’ll be invited to two (or more) on the same day. Instead of running yourself ragged to attend them all, plan a lunch or day out with those friends or colleagues for a time in the future when you can dedicate your full attention to them.

5. Make making time for yourself a priority.
Making time for yourself to refresh and recharge is essential to your mental health and your ability to be the best you that you can be. During a season that is all about giving to others, this can feel a little selfish. But here’s the deal – YOUR PRESENCE IS A PRESENT. So treat yourself as the gift you are!