Santa’s Lessons for a Peaceful, Productive December Business

Thanksgiving is past, and we’re recovering from the mixed blessings of turkey leftovers, Black Friday, Small Biz Saturday and Cyber Monday.Year-end reporting and business activities compete with entertaining, shopping, school pageants, recitals, church activities, charity drives and much more. It seems there is too much to do, not enough time to do it, and certainly not enough time to enjoy anything. Before the full scale “Bah, Humbug!” sets in, it’s time to take a few lessons from Santa.

First, like Santa, make a list. What do you have to do? Write it all down. Trying to keep it all in your head is a recipe for a migraine.

Second, enlist help. Santa doesn’t do it alone. Granted, we might not have willing elf helpers, but even some support can make life easier. Swap services with a neighbor; or hire a freelancer for a bit of extra help with your business.

Third, take care of yourself. Santa loads up on milk and cookies, but wholesome oatmeal is ready in three minutes. An awesome recipe: 1/2 cup oatmeal, 1 cup water, 3 minutes in the microwave. Once cooked, add whatever you like: yogurt, fruit, nuts, granola, or my favorite: chopped up trail mix. Instant wholesomeness. (Note: use a bowl that holds at least 2 cups; the oatmeal poofs while cooking.)

Fourth, trim the list. Santa does. There’s naughty, and nice. Focus on activities that bring you joy and are productive, and eliminate those that don’t.

Fifth, stay on task. Like Santa, you have much to accomplish. Your time is precious; use it wisely.

Sixth, stick with winners. Santa has used the same reindeer and worn the same outfit for a hundred years. Family traditions spring from anticipated repetition. A traditional menu or activity, whether at home or in business, takes less planning and is more reliable than perpetual reinvention.

Seventh, and most importantly, relax and enjoy. Although there might be intense activity, the most important part of Christmas is connecting and taking time to be with family and friends. Even for Santa, this particular Christmas will only come once. Take the time to enjoy it.

Merry Christmas to you, and best wishes for a wonderful and prosperous 2012!

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