Your Holiday Plan Is A lot Like Your Business Plan

We’re a few weeks into December and the holiday buzz is everywhere. I was thinking about my holiday planning and how closely it relates to my business planning. See if this sounds like you, too…

I am a detailed list maker. I know everyone I need to buy a gift for, whom to send cards to, what I need to pick up at the store for cooking, what time everyone’s flights arrive, etc. 

In business, I am the same way. Sure, I use technology and digital calendars, but you will find lists on my desk right now for people I need to call, or things I want to say while talking to a client or a couple goals jotted down for the day. Lists are life! 

I am strategic in my planning. If my Mom is flying in one day and my kids are flying on another day, I try to get everyone on the same page. Less trips to the airport and more time together.  If I need a day of self-care, instead of scheduling a haircut here and a manicure there, I just take one day and do it all. Staying in the mindset of joy helps the day really reset my brain. 

In business, if I have clients on the West Coast I plan my schedule weeks to months in advance to coordinate visits with my son who lives in LA. I also let my PR company know where I am traveling to coordinate more opportunity for exposure. I love to plan and look at business and life as one.  

I seize opportunities. If I can invite all my family, extended family and my kid’s significant others and their families to the house for the holidays, then you better believe I will. I want to get to know these folks and bring them into our world. I want everyone to connect and have a great time when we are all off work and feeling less stress of the day-to-day. My motto is the more the merrier.  

In business, I say yes to as much as I can. I want to learn and grow, so I’ll pack the schedule a little full sometimes and go out of my way to meet someone, just because. I don’t want to regret not doing something. I’d much rather go for it and see what happens! Remember, I plan the self-care days to balance it all. 

Those were big ideas and here a few more.

If you are a last-minute shopper, are you also a last-minute planner? Do you need to look ahead in 2020 a little earlier than you think?

If you always go over your budget with shopping, why? Do you do that in business, too? Is it because you haven't budgeted expenses properly. Do you need help with your numbers this year?

If you aren’t sure what you want for the holidays, why? And are you feeling that way in business? Is something missing? Are you waiting for someone to give you that perfect gift? Maybe you need to listen to your gut just a little more. It’ll tell you what you want. 

Holiday planning, business planning, it all comes down to this...do what works best for you and always be open to new ideas and suggestions. 

Ivy