How to get organised this Christmas!

This time of year, can be really overwhelming, not only because everything is so busy but also because not everyone loves Christmas. I personally loved it from a child up until my early twenties, when I had such little responsibility. I could go out and have a drink or two and go home to my parents, Christmas was always taken care of, I had to just spend my money on myself my drinks and few adult family presents.

As I got older and my family grew, I am 1 of 4 and have 7 nephews and nieces, I started to love it less and less. With so many family members to buy for and so many different personalities to deal with I just often find it overwhelming. And actually, dreaded it! And ended up drinking and eating my way through the anxiety of it all!

Buying presents at this time of year can really stretch the bank balance and send us into a mental turmoil.

This year I have gotten myself really organised with how much money I am spending, and trying to get on top of what presents actually cost me! I have included a handy budget list for presents that I created for you to simply get it written down and to calculate. Go to my downloads and simply download, print and get started!

Here are some other handy tips on getting sorted this year, it isn’t too late!

1. Start a list – write it down, get it out your head. You don’t need a fancy list or note pad, just a bit of paper. Bullet points, and actions are always a good idea.

2. Start early – Eat that Elf! As I said in my previous blog I always think you should eat your frog, but since it is Christmas eat the elf. Do that one thing you are dreading first, everything else will feel like a dream after that.

3. Budget – See my clear and easy budget sheet! The best way to understand how much presents will cost is get it written down. Do not bury your head in the sand and get in to debt. Be realistic and plan!

4. My final tip, is try and enjoy the season. It can be overwhelming but it doesn’t have to be. Be honest with yourself about what you want to do this season and don’t do anything to make someone else happy. Spending time with loved ones is great and buying presents is lovely but the spirit of the season is to be jolly and enjoy so do you best to do that!

If there is anything you need a little extra help with, then get in touch – alys@helpfulalys.co.uk