Focus for the Holidays
This may be the most wonderful time of the year but it’s also the most difficult time of the year to stay focused on work tasks, client deadlines & your blog calendar (or is that just me?). There’s gifts to be purchased, family events to attend & lots of spiked egg-nog to drink. I’ve gathered 5 quick & cozy ways to remain focused on your to-do’s so you can fully appreciate the chaos & comfort that this beautiful season brings. From my studio to yours:
1. Get outdoors
Bundle up & get out there! A quick walk/activity outside is good for your lungs, legs & overall mood. When I started freelancing, I let my inbox determine my schedule first thing in the morning. This usually meant skipping lunch & being in reaction mode all day. I recently replaced this bad habit with a 20-minute morning walk. It slows my pace to “realistic”, clears my head & sets the tone for the rest of my day.
2. Drink hot lemon water
Megan Gilger of The Fresh Exchange recently shared that she drinks hot lemon water as part of her morning routine. I liked her idea & did the same once the snow began to fall (yes, already a foot & counting on the Michigan Lakeshore!). It soothes my throat after a chatty lunch date or client call & puts a refreshing spin on the most simple & best drink for you.
3. Wear your favorite sweater
Tending to client needs & task lists in your favorite sweater is the work day equivalent to cuddling up on the couch with your favorite blanket watching reruns of Gilmore Girls (thank you, Netflix) or that book you’ve been meaning to start. Sometimes I tell myself, “Rock the sweater & to-do list now so you can fully enjoy the blanket & book tonight.” Nothing wrong with a little self-imposed ultimatum, right?
4. Spread good vibes
Good energy in your workspace means good work, writing & creating. What gives you good vibes? Integrate that into your day to keep interested in the task at hand. It’s about enjoying the moment & reminding yourself that you hustle so hard because you love this shit (especially when you’d rather be building snowmen & decorating the Christmas tree)!
5. Crank up the holiday music
I’ve gone from Nat King Cole’s Christmas Song to Whitney Houston’s Holiday Album to Frank Sinatra’s Jolly Christmas & it isn’t even December yet! But with the snow softly falling outside & the heat cranking up inside, I feel so spirited a little work to fulfill promises I made doesn’t feel like an unwelcomed blizzard. It feels like giving a gift…& everyone knows giving is better than receiving.
May your workdays be merry & bright. Cheers! Em
You can also find this post on The Blog Loft, a great resource for bloggers looking to collaborate. Thanks for letting me share my focus essentials, Margo!
