The holidays can be overwhelmingly busy, and it can be easy to get lost in chaos. There’s gifts to purchase, dinners to plan, and items to cross off your to-do list. It can be challenging to make time for your people when your calendar is overflowing, although quality time is one way to fill your cup.
The good news is that it’s possible to make your list, check it twice, and still make time for your people. We know our friendships require effort and work, even during the busy holidays. Here’s how to make time for friends during the busy holiday season.
Get It On the Calendar Early
We all know that the holiday season can get hectic. So, the best way to spend intentional time with our friends is to schedule time together weeks in advance. An effective way to plan time together is at the end of the month. You can do this by reaching out to your friends and looking ahead to the coming months. Set aside time to spend together and block off your calendar. It may seem extra, but planning two or three weeks in advance will allow you both to find a time that works.
Don’t Double Book Yourself
It might be tempting to try to add a coffee day or a lunch during a busy day or a day with other appointments or meetings, but don’t do it. Double booking or overbooking yourself is never a plan for success. You will stretch yourself thin. If you want to be intentional about your time with friends, then truly set time aside for them so that you can bring your best self. Allot time on your calendar rather than just trying to squeeze in time on a busy day.
Invite Your Friends Into Everyday Tasks
There’s a lot of work to get done during the holiday season. Consider inviting your friends help instead of trying to do everything yourself. Perhaps, you need to go present shopping, decorate the house, take your car to the mechanic, or get your monthly mani/pedi. Daily tasks are a great opportunity to invite friends into your life.
Remember Their Moments
Birthdays, first days of new jobs, and anniversaries, are spectacular moments. Its essential to remember these big moments in your friendships. It can be easy to forget your friend’s important moments durig the holidays. One tip is to jot the dates down in your calendar. It means more than you know to call or text a friend to show them you remember, love and appreciate them.
Try Something New Together
The idea of trying something new might sound overwhelming during the holidays. But it might be an opportunity to bring wonder and excitement into your life. You and a friend can try a new exercise routine, cook a new recipe, take up a new hobby. Trying something new might be an opportunity to let your hair down, laugh, and relax during the hecticness of the holidays.
Check-In Regularly
A little goes a long way in the chaos of the holidays. It might sound overly simple, but reaching out with a quick, “Thinking of you?” or “How are you doing?” text can go a long way. Remember, don’t miss the chance to reach out and check up on your friends.