If you’re anything like me, the end of the year is typically spent at parties and flitting from shop to shop getting the latest autumn cozy clothes. I never really think about how to be productive in winter. And as we’re now in autumn, I feel like I’m not working to the best of my abilities, and letting my productivity slip. I’ve forgotten all about my goals, I started off summer with so many health and fitness goals and now it’s cold I’ve forgotten all about them.
It’s hard to believe that this year is actually in its final few months! But it’s not over yet, so read on to squeeze as much as you can out of the next two months.
Get organized for 2018
I find the best way to transition into a new year is get organized beforehand. This could be sorting out paperwork, throwing out some old clothes or even re-decorating. Just think how refreshing it will feel to wake up to 2018 with an organized life (as well as the obligatory hangover). If you really need to restructure your life, the Getting Things Done planner not only lets you plan your to-dos, you can also track your water, exercise, appointments, and meals. A planner that helps you get every part of your life together is definitely needed for these winter months.
Make the most of longer evenings
While after-work drinks in the summer are lovely, there’s something to be said for being able to walk in the door and get in your PJs straight away. The days may be shorter, but the evenings are longer. This means you can make sure you’re using the evenings well. Set out your week for what you actually need, if you know you’ll need a relaxing bath on Monday evening, have one! Buy a face mask on your way home and indulge.
Fill up your evenings, it makes you feel like you’re getting more done and having a long day. You can go to a gym class, work on your personal goals for an hour, and pamper yourself after work. You still have time to get comfy and relax afterward.
Reflect on the year so far
It’s easy to think the year’s flown by before you’ve had a chance to do much. Instead of worrying about what you haven’t done this year, reflect on all that you have achieved. Start a journal and list what you’ve actually done so far, the list is probably longer than you realize. If it has been a tough year for whatever reason, try to leave it in the past, get some closure and move forward into the new year.
Plan to travel
Vacations aren’t just for summer, especially short getaways. Use any remaining leave you have from work to take a long weekend or a short holiday. Choose a winter-themed activity such as skiing, or escape to the sun, ticking a new country off the bucket list while doing so. If you’re worried about the money towards the end of the year, start budgeting for Christmas now and read our guide to making traveling the world super affordable.
Finish your New Years resolutions
I can’t even remember what my New Years resolution was last year. Can you? If you have managed to tick off all your 2017 new year’s resolutions, then good for you! But much like everyone else, it’s more likely you let some (or all) fall by the wayside. Or even forgot what it was! Remember though, the year’s not over yet. It’s the perfect time to set some manageable small goals for yourself.
Take advantage of a quieter schedule
Summer’s the hardest time of year to make plans. Everyone is off doing their own things, with trips abroad and spontaneous invitations clogging up calendars. Fall sees this chaos die down, so make the most of having your friends around. Plan some winter activities like dinner parties and smores on the fire. I personally love the fact that this is party season. With Halloween coming up, there’s no excuse not to join in the festivities. It makes you happier, gives you a chance to catch up with friends and family and gives you something to look forward to when the mornings are dark and cold!
Plan something for next year
The start of next year seems like a seriously long way away, but if you’re already looking forward to what’s coming – you’ll never experience that post-Christmas dip. Even when you love your job, there’s something about going from the magic of Christmas back to work. When it’s all over, it’s sad!
If you have a January birthday, you’re lucky that you get to plan another party, if not, make something happen! Whether it’s something you want to kick the year off with, or a party or social gathering – get your Facebook invitations sent out now.
Start something new
You don’t have to wait to start a new activity. If you want to train for a marathon, join a gym or take up a new hobby, there’s no time like the present. Think about the head start you’ll have on everyone else beginning in January.
Embrace Party season
Not everyone likes how early Christmas celebrations begin each year. But we can all agree to love the parties and festivities they bring. Come mid-November, the party season will be in full swing, so make the most of it and say yes to every invitation.
GOOD THINGS
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