Organizing for a Stress-Free Holiday

A little organization can make all the difference between having a stress-full or a stress-free holiday.
The National Association of Professional Organizers in Michigan (NAPO-MI) wants to share three ways to simplify the holidays:

1. Instead of that last-minute marathon gift-wrapping session, spend 15 minutes wrapping presents each night until you are done. Save time and frustration by setting up a gift wrap center with all of your wrapping paper, gift bags, tissue, ribbons, bows, and gift tags, tape, scissors and a marker or pen.

2. Holiday cards are another big project that you can complete in phases: sign cards, address envelopes, seal, and stamp. Use the time during television commercial breaks and the job will be done in no time. Or delegate tasks to family members so the job gets done assembly-style. And did you know that you can avoid long lines at the post office by buying stamps at www.usps.com? You can mail packages through the postal service’s online site as well.

3. Keep in mind: “less is more,” even at the holidays. Now’s a good time to donate some of your kids’ old toys and games – and some of your own stuff. Keep a detailed list of what you donate and be sure to get a receipt for tax purposes. While you’re at it, when you pull out your holiday decorations, add the ones you didn’t use last year to your donations box, and toss anything that’s broken or worn.

A stress-free holiday can be easier than you think! For more organizing tips, visit www.NapoMichigan.com.

Article submitted by Associate Member Donna Smallin Kuper.