Doesn't it seem like once Halloween comes and goes that the rest of the year just rushes up to meet us? Many stores didn't even wait until Halloween to start putting up their Christmas decorations (too-too soon, in my view.) As we move into this second week in November, I've already got my holiday to-do lists going and I suspect you do as well. I'm proposing we add one more to-do list - our pre-holiday self care list. With all of the demands on us this time of year, it's very easy to let ourselves get lost in all the bustle. But let's make a vow not to let that happen - if we start now, at the beginning of the season, we can make sure that we meet the holidays feeling confident, calm and (somewhat) in control. I've listed some ideas below to get you started, but you probably have some very favorite things that make you feel happy and pampered. Put them on the list and in your calendar! Like they say on the airlines "Put your own oxygen mask on first, and then assist others."
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Happy, peace and merry: these three words get a lot of attention this time of year. Is that how you feel by mid-December or is it more like rushed, exhausted and flustered? Before you celebrate "Peace on Earth", why not load your calendar up with some "Peace of Mind" activities that will help you maintain your cool through the warp-speed of the holidays. Here are a few starters for you - be sure to add in others that especially speak to your soul.
Set up a Closet Appointment with yourself to come up with 3-5 holiday outfits that will suit possible upcoming activities, whether it's house parties, dinners out, or more formal occasions. You'll be able to determine if you're missing any key pieces and if any items need altering or cleaning (yes, be sure to try them on.) You'll be able to accept invitations out with no last-minute stress because you've already prepared.
Here are a few suggestions using a Cream Sweater as your base.
Check out these other ideas using the Holiday Sweater, the Dressy Skirt, the Pencil Skirt, and the festive shoe. I've gotten in the habit of booking my hair appointments a month in advance, and for the holidays, two months. It definitely makes for peace of mind.
Add in the Special Touches to your home. This personal space can be especially nurturing this time of year. Maybe it's fresh flowers, or scented candles, a holiday potpourri on the stove, a special throw - what makes your home feel more cozy and appealing to your senses?
Save Time for Friends. Not just for parties, but for personal, catch-up time. A lunch out and matinee with a girl friend, for example, will provide a recharge and a reconnect in the midst of all the running around with your other to-do lists.
Make Time for Quiet-Time. Whether it's in the early morning and that first cup of coffee (that's my favorite), or at mid-day to stop for a breather on a park bench and enjoy the scenery, whatever is your personal choice - just do it. If possible, do it every day. This is your life - it will pass by regardless - why not grab a few moments for yourself every day?
Put a Little Sizzle in Your Outfits. This is the perfect time of year to add a little pizzazz to your wardrobe - and not just your 'going out' outfits, but your every day ones as well. Pop on a hat. Layer that sequined top under your blazer or jean jacket. Wear your funky heels with your jeans. It's all too easy to throw on just any old thing to run down that list of errands - don't do it! Put on something that will bring a smile to your face - because that's where joy begins - with you!
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Another self-care activity that frequently gets dropped during these busy times is our exercise. I've come up with a collection of quick (10-20 minute) exercise videos that I rely on on an every day basis, because it's not always possible to do a more lengthy routine. It's better to do a little bit every day than to not do anything, right?I recently came across this great blog, Laugh Lines, that almost always has me nodding my head and giggling. The author, Vickki Clafkin, hits the nail on the head with great humor. Very appropriate for this time of year, she addresses the issue of husbands going shopping with their wives. You might want to share it, in the interest of holiday shopping peace-of-mind. For the guy in your life who likes to wear his boots, this is a great tutorial from He Spoke Style on how to wear various boot styles with jeans, as well as being a great summary of excellent styling ideas for jeans. |
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A GIFT CERTIFICATE IS THE PERFECT GIFT TO GIVE AND TO RECEIVE.
I'm happy to provide gift certificates that can be used for closet clean-ups, wardrobe consultations, or personal shopping - whatever the recipient would like. Please keep this in mind for your loved ones (even if that loved one is you!)
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With all of ideas listed above, you might want to add in one more - it's a special sale that happens only twice a year and next weekend is one of those weekends. Friends and colleagues Elena Daciuk and Jackie Jones are having a pre-holiday sale on their clothing consignment and designer jewelry lines. Normally you are able to purchase these items either on-line or, in the case of the jewelry, at specialty women's stores. But now you can touch, feel and try on to your hearts content. You can get all the info here. Hope to see you there!
Wishing you a lovely pre-holiday season - with all the pampering you can handle.
All my best to all of you!
VP Marketing, Social Media & Website, 2014-2016
AICI SFBA
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