If you're like me, Reader, you might be in the throes of the December dance. 🕺🏽🎶🪩

In theory, it's a gentle waltz, like the moments when you watch your favorite holiday flick* cuddled under a warm throw, indulging in a nice glass of pinot noir or a home-baked sweet. 🍪

Often, though, the 12th month is a fast-paced rhumba, attempting to balance what we WANT to do with what we HAVE to do.

For me this December, I've started a ton of things I WANT to do (like decorating, gift buying, meal planning) . . .but have yet to finish any of it.

Then add in the things my brain is telling me I HAVE to do, like tax planning and client commitments, and it feels heavy, like one too many hits of that gingerbread fudge. 🍫

So, I decided to make a list of holiday don'ts.

We often talk about all the things we should do. But we forget to identify the things we're intentionally deciding not to do.

That's why I've made a list, and checked it twice.

Here's mine so far.

❌ Don't miss an opportunity to be with your family or others you care about. Showing up matters. But don't hesitate to renegotiate personal commitments that are truly too crunched to enjoy the person you're with. Corny as it may be, presence is the present. 🎁

❌ Don't schedule new work until after January 5, even if it seems like there are "business days" on your calendar. Take a break.

❌ Don't forget to ask for help. You're not alone.

❌ Don't stress over sending cards. Write them remembering that it's important to you to stay in touch, not because you feel you have to. (But feel free to send New Year's Cards and give yourself more time.)

❌ Don't worry about getting everything done. The clock takes care of itself. What needs to happen will; what doesn't likely doesn't matter.

❌ Don't try to cram in all the good movies before the 25th. They'll be there until spring. 🌸

​For more, see my article Holiday Stress: Tips to Tame it Today. ​

So how 'bout you, Reader? Hit REPLY and tell me what goes on YOUR don't list. Or maybe you need a DO list that keeps you focused on what matters most. Either way, I always love to hear from you about this or anything in your life at work.

Until next time, I wish you peace and easy dancing as you boogie through the season. Thanks for being here, and for all you do all year long.

Always, Darcy

P.S. * Muppet Christmas Carol, for sure. Yours? Hit REPLY! --D