Admit it! You promised this year was not going to be like the last few, but yet you are already feeling that holiday anxiety. The TO DO list even if unwritten seems to be growing by the day right along side the gift list. If the holidays are stressful and you start to wish they didnt come each year then you are doing something wrong and you need to regroup. Not to worry...we are here to help!

1. If you don't have a TO DO list and are just swirling around, STOP...and make a list.
2. Categorize your list...you know...organize it by types of tasks.
3. If at this point you are already overwhelmed, do not proceed to step 4. Call ON THE GO 4 U (or a local concierge in your area) right now.
4. Assign time limits to the tasks. Similar tasks (that's why we categorized) can probably be knocked off at one time.
5. Make a schedule. You know your daily routines. Now add the TO DO list tasks to the routine.
6. If at this point you see no way to schedule another thing in your day: a) refer to our November article "Don't be a Statistic", b) Call ON THE GO 4 U (or a local concierge in your area) right now and c) do not proceed to Step 7 because help is on the way.
7. OK, now you have the list and the schedule. Stick to it! The easiest way for things to fall apart is for you to get sidetracked.

Things for your TO DO list that you may have forgotten:

• Holiday Cards
• Stamps (purchase now if you want themed ones)
• All mailing should be done no later than Dec 18 to avoid the rush and additional shipping costs.
• Holiday Open House or Party. Consider having an after the holidays party...people need a break and some fun in Jan/Feb.
• Invitations should be sent 3 weeks in advance of the event
• Office/School Gifts
• Wrapping Supplies (Paper, Ribbon, Tape, Labels)
• Decorations

Remember to put on the tunes, stay relaxed and enjoy what is supposed to be a joyous season, not a chore. Now that you have these holiday tips, we hope that your holiday is safe and sane.

Indra Books

Indra Books, owner of ON THE GO 4 U, LLC, Personal Shoppers & Concierge Service, is an expert in life management. With a background in fashion, music & the arts, travel, education, technology and management, she brings a unique combination of skills required to provide valuable stress reducing services to her clients. As a former DC Metro commuter, beleaguered by too many "to do" lists and not enough time, Indra understands what her clients need.

Indra is the 2006 Vice President of the International & Concierge Association (ICEA) and give back to the business community that gave her a start in business as the chairperson of the Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce's Women in Business Alliance (WIBA).

In addtion to providing life management services, Indra writes a monthly e-zine for ON THE GO 4 U, LLC and conducts workshops on wardrobe rejuvenation, entertaining and reprioritizing your life to get the most out of your personal time.