Melanie Cohen’s Post

Does your holidays bring 𝙖 𝙢𝙞𝙭 𝙤𝙛 𝙚𝙭𝙘𝙞𝙩𝙚𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙩 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙨𝙩𝙧𝙚𝙨𝙨? On one hand, there’s the joy of celebrating with loved ones, yet on the other, it often feels like there's so much to do and not enough time to enjoy it. I totally get it! The twinkling lights and festive vibes are magical BUT managing work, family commitments, and the usual holiday hustle, the season can quickly become overwhelming. I used to be the queen of last-minute scrambling—thinking I could do it all, only to end up feeling 𝙙𝙧𝙖𝙞𝙣𝙚𝙙 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙙𝙞𝙨𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙣𝙚𝙘𝙩𝙚𝙙 from the joy of the season. Take my holiday outings with my boyfriend ❤️, for example. I love the idea of impromptu dates, but as we get older (and busier!), we’ve learned that thoughtful planning is the key to truly enjoying quality time without the stress. So now, I make a 𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙨𝙘𝙞𝙤𝙪𝙨 𝙚𝙛𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙥𝙡𝙖𝙣 𝙖𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙙: 🛍️ Christmas shopping (yes, it can be organised!) 🎉 Family and friend gatherings 🌟 Special festive outings Here’s how I make it work without feeling overwhelmed: 🎁 𝙋𝙇𝘼𝙉 𝘼𝙃𝙀𝘼𝘿 🎁 I’ve learned that the key to a smooth holiday season is being proactive. I subscribe to newsletters about local events and Christmas markets so I can plan ahead. 𝙉𝙤 𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙚 𝙡𝙖𝙨𝙩-𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙪𝙩𝙚 𝙙𝙚𝙘𝙞𝙨𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙨—this way, I can block off time for what matters most. 🎄 𝙋𝙍𝙄𝙊𝙍𝙄𝙏𝙄𝙎𝙀 𝙈𝙀𝘼𝙉𝙄𝙉𝙂𝙁𝙐𝙇 𝙀𝙓𝙋𝙀𝙍𝙄𝙀𝙉𝘾𝙀𝙎 🎄 With so many things competing for our attention, it’s easy to say “yes” to everything. Over the years, I’ve learned that my best holiday memories come from the moments that 𝙩𝙧𝙪𝙡𝙮 𝙧𝙚𝙨𝙤𝙣𝙖𝙩𝙚 with me. Whether it’s a quiet evening with family or a small gathering with close friends, I choose the experiences that feel 𝙖𝙪𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙞𝙘 to me. ✨ 𝙂𝙊 𝙊𝙁𝙁-𝙋𝙀𝘼𝙆 ✨ Weekdays are a game changer! Whether it’s for holiday shopping or a dinner date, I’ve found that fewer crowds and a slower pace let me enjoy the moment fully. It’s my way of 𝙧𝙚𝙘𝙡𝙖𝙞𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖 𝙡𝙞𝙩𝙩𝙡𝙚 𝙥𝙚𝙖𝙘𝙚 during the most hectic time of year. We’ve all been there—juggling work, family, and the endless to-do lists I’ve realized the holidays don’t have to be a stressful sprint. By planning ahead, focusing on what truly matters, and carving out time for myself and my loved ones, I can enjoy the festive season 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙗𝙪𝙧𝙣𝙤𝙪𝙩. 💬 How do you stay calm during this holiday rush? 💬 I’d love to hear your tips for keeping it all together! #HolidayStress #CalmAmidChaos #SelfCareTips #HolidayPlanning #StressFreeSeason

🎁 Holiday Prep Got You in a Gift-Giving Bind? We've Got You! 🎁 The holidays are coming fast, and if you're scratching your head wondering what to get your team, clients, or event attendees, take a deep breath—we've got you covered with our unique gift collections. From classy holiday essentials to fun gag gifts, Voss Botanicals has something for everyone (even that one coworker who thinks "work-life balance" means watching cat videos at work). 😉 And here’s the best part: gifting our handcrafted goodies isn’t just thoughtful—it’s also budget-friendly! 💸 🎄 Why choose Voss Botanicals for holiday gifting? 🎄 Options Galore: From holiday best-sellers to conversation-starting novelty items. Easy to Order: Check your list off and call it a day. Affordable & Memorable: Look like a gifting pro without the pro price tag. 🔔 Here’s your incentive to jump in early: Skip the last-minute scramble and grab our holiday gifts now before they’re gone! https://lnkd.in/eGpzXRW

𝗔𝗿𝗲 𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗧𝗿𝘂𝗹𝘆 𝗘𝗻𝗷𝗼𝘆ing 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗛𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗱𝗮𝘆𝘀? For many parents, the holiday break can feel overwhelming instead of relaxing. Instead of unwinding, it becomes a period of constant planning, entertaining, and ensuring the kids are happy from sunrise to bedtime. The pressure to keep everything running smoothly while creating special holiday memories can leave you drained. Plus the never-ending festive activities, the endless comparison to what others seem to be doing, and it’s easy to feel like you’re falling short. But here’s the truth- 𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗱𝗼𝗻’𝘁 𝗵𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗱𝗼 𝗶𝘁 𝗮𝗹𝗹. With a few thoughtful adjustments, you can create a holiday that’s meaningful for your 𝗸𝗶𝗱𝘀 and 𝗬𝗼𝘂. 1. 𝘈𝘥𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘠𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘌𝘹𝘱𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 Forget about perfection and focus on creating small, genuine moments of joy. Kids remember the love and laughter, not the details. 2. 𝘗𝘳𝘪𝘰𝘳𝘪𝘵𝘪𝘻𝘦 𝘞𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘔𝘢𝘵𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘴 Before you fill your calendar with activities, pause and ask: 𝗗𝗼𝗲𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗮𝗱𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗱 𝗼𝗳 𝗵𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗱𝗮𝘆 𝘄𝗲 𝘄𝗮𝗻𝘁? Be selective with what you say yes to. It’s okay to skip events, even if it disappoints someone. 3. 𝘔𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘛𝘪𝘮𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘞𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘌𝘯𝘫𝘰𝘺 The holidays shouldn’t just be about keeping the kids busy. Plan activities that bring you joy, too. Include your kids if they want to join, but don’t hesitate to enjoy it solo. 4. Take Breaks Without Guilt You can’t keep giving if you’re running on empty. Whether it’s swapping duties with a friend, asking for help from your partner or grandparents. carve out time to recharge. 5. 𝘋𝘰𝘯’𝘵 𝘕𝘦𝘨𝘭𝘦𝘤𝘵 𝘠𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧 Stick to the basics: eat, hydrate, move, and rest. You’ll feel better and enjoy the season more. 6. 𝘓𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘯 𝘍𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘛𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘠𝘦𝘢𝘳 Did an activity work wonders? Was there a tradition that felt extra special? Jot it down. These notes will help you plan a smoother, happier holiday next year. 𝘞𝘩𝘢𝘵’𝘴 𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘺 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘦𝘯𝘫𝘰𝘺𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘩𝘰𝘭𝘪𝘥𝘢𝘺𝘴 𝘥𝘪𝘧𝘧𝘦𝘳𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘭𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘺𝘦𝘢𝘳? 𝘚𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘴—𝘐’𝘥 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘮! #holidaytips #earlystartconsult #startsmartwithearlystart

𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗣𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 & 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗛𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗱𝗮𝘆𝘀: 𝗪𝗵𝗼'𝘀 𝗠𝗮𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗧𝗵𝗼𝘀𝗲 𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝘀 (𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗖𝗵𝗲𝗰𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗧𝗵𝗲𝗺 𝗧𝘄𝗶𝗰𝗲)? Have you ever noticed how differently people approach holiday planning and execution? The WorkPlace Big Five Profile™ supertrait Consolidation reveals how we organize, plan, and accomplish tasks during the bustling holiday season. Its six subtraits - Perfectionism, Organization, Drive, Concentration, Methodicalness, and Detail - illuminate why some of us create detailed holiday spreadsheets while others prefer to wing it.   Let's peek behind the holiday curtain:   Angel approaches the holidays with high Consolidation. By September, she's already crafting her master plan. Her Google calendar is color-coded with every event, her gift list includes backup options, and she can tell you exactly which relatives need dietary accommodations for Christmas dinner. While others might find her level of organization intense, it's this very attention to detail that allows her to create seemingly effortless holiday magic for her loved ones.   Davis falls somewhere in the middle of the Consolidation spectrum. He maintains a thoughtful balance between structure and spontaneity during the holiday season. You'll find his freezer stocked with pre-made Hannukah goodies, but he's also the first to suggest an impromptu winter picnic if the weather turns unexpectedly mild. His holiday shopping follows a loose budget and timeline, but he's always open to last-minute inspiration.   Then there's Isabella, who takes a more relaxed approach to Consolidation. Her holiday motto might be, "Everything works out in the end." While others stress about perfect timing and elaborate preparations, she focuses on creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Her gift wrapping might happen on Christmas Eve, and her holiday meals might feature store-bought sides alongside homemade favorites, but her laid-back approach often creates the most comfortable space for genuine connection.   Whether you're a detailed planner or a spontaneous celebrator, your style contributes to the rich tapestry of holiday experiences.   Reflect on these questions: How does your approach to Consolidation help or challenge you during the holidays? Where might you find balance between structure and flexibility?    The most joyful holidays aren't necessarily the most organized or the most spontaneous - they're the ones that align with your authentic way of navigating the season while respecting the needs and preferences of others.

🎉 Embracing the Holiday Spirit! 🎉 As the holiday season approaches, it's the perfect time to unwind, recharge, and embrace the joy and warmth that this special time of year brings. Whether you're planning a cozy staycation, an adventurous getaway, or simply spending quality time with loved ones, the holidays are a magical opportunity to create lasting memories. Here’s how I’m planning to make the most of this holiday season: Disconnect to Reconnect: Taking a much-needed break from emails and work calls to focus on the present moment. It's all about reconnecting with family and friends and cherishing the time we have together. Exploring New Places: Planning a little adventure to explore new destinations. Whether it's a scenic road trip or discovering hidden gems in my hometown, the thrill of new experiences is always exciting. Festive Activities: Engaging in fun holiday activities like baking festive treats, decorating the home, and maybe even a bit of holiday shopping. These small joys add so much to the festive spirit! Giving Back: The holidays are also a great time to give back. Volunteering at local charities or participating in community events can spread joy and make a positive impact on others' lives. Self-Care and Relaxation: Amidst all the excitement, it's essential to take care of oneself. Whether it’s reading a good book, enjoying a spa day, or simply lounging in PJs with a cup of hot cocoa, self-care is key. What are your holiday plans? I'd love to hear how you’re planning to celebrate and unwind. Feel free to share your holiday traditions or any exciting plans you have in the comments below! Wishing everyone a joyful and relaxing holiday season! 🎄✨ #HolidaySeason #WorkLifeBalance #RelaxAndRecharge #FestiveFun #HolidayPlans #SelfCare Take a moment to enjoy the festive cheer and make the most of this wonderful time of year! Happy holidays, everyone!

Planning ahead for Xmas holidays is necessary to avoid Festive Fatigue: Planning for the Christmas holidays can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable season. Here’s a general outline to get you started: 1. Budgeting Set a budget for gifts, decorations, food, and activities. Track expenses to avoid overspending. 2. Gift Planning Make a gift list for family and friends. Research gift ideas well in advance, considering interests and preferences. Shop early to take advantage of sales and avoid last-minute rush. 3. Decorations Decide on a theme for your decorations. Make a list of needed items (lights, ornaments, etc.). Set a date for decorating your home. 4. Food & Meals Plan your menu for holiday meals and treats. Create a shopping list based on your menu. Consider meal prep in advance, especially for big gatherings. 5. Activities & Traditions Plan family activities, such as movie nights, baking, or visiting holiday markets. Schedule time for volunteering or charitable activities. 6. Travel Plans Book travel arrangements early if visiting family or going on vacation. Plan accommodations if needed. @ Bushblazers Tours Travel & Safaris we can sort you out on this...we have fantastic packages 7. Sending Cards Choose or create holiday cards and compile addresses. Set a deadline for sending cards to ensure they arrive on time. 8. Self-Care Schedule downtime to relax amidst the busyness. Consider setting boundaries with social events to avoid burnout. 9. Final Touches Review your plan a week before the holidays to ensure you’re on track. Prepare for unexpected changes or last-minute tasks. By breaking down your planning into these categories, you can enjoy a more organized and stress-free holiday season!

For your holiday self-care checklist...

241224 – As the festive season comes around, and we listen to the carols, and jingles, we are immersed in the mood, of celebration. “It’s the most wonderful time of the year.” That has to be fun. “Joy to the world.” That is happiness. Additionally, year-end festivities coincide with breaks, for businesses and educational institutes, allow for families to gather and enjoy. That brings about even more merry-making, and partying. However, the festive season may not be all joy and laughter. Not everyone can celebrate, and look forward to the holidays. Many are struggling with different challenges in life, and festivities pose more trials for them. For those with health, and well being issues, holidays add to the pressure, and gatherings are huge burdens. For those stretching to make ends meet, more celebrations would mean more expenses. Even without the added costs of the holidays, bringing home enough bread is already difficult. For those overworked, holiday season actually pile on more work, as others take leave, or there are backlogs. For those away from their loved ones, holidays are so much lonelier. While everyone is gathering, they know, no gathering can satisfy them, more than being with their loved ones. Is this the happiest time of the year? We have a choice. Do we see a glass as half-full, or half empty? We should enjoy ourselves, if we can, for we have worked hard and deserve the celebration. At the same time, while merry-making, let us remember, that there are those, that are struggling this holiday season. Let us be kinder, to all that we engage with, for we do not know, what others are going through. Happy holidays, everyone! => festive seasons are for celebrating and merry-making => not everyone can have fun during the holiday season => remember to be kind, while we enjoy the holiday season => happy holidays! #festiveseasons #celebration #merrymaking #noteveryone #stressed #unwell #financialburden #loneliness #bekind #enjoy #happyholidays #careertips #personalmastery #careermanagement #careermastery #personaldevelopment #personaleffectiveness

What do the holidays look like in your house? And who is in charge of everything? There’s a lot involved in making the holidays magical. And I will remind you that it’s not all on you. Yes, there is a lot to be done to make the holidays everything you want them to be. But it doesn’t all have to be your responsibility. And, it’s ok to simplify and say no to things. In fact, I recommend it! You do not have to attend every event you are invited to. This week, make time to sit down with your partner and figure out the following: 👉Are you sending holiday cards? If yes, why (because it’s important to keep in touch with loved ones or you feel obligated to do it because everyone else does)? If yes, who is in charge of doing them, what’s the budget, and when do they need to be ordered and sent out? 👉Who is in charge of gifts for the extended family? Are you each in charge of your own parents and siblings? (The answer should be yes, here). 👉Who is in charge of holiday decorations? When are they going up? Are there outside lights and decorations going up? Who is putting those up? Is it a family tradition to do it together? Is it done over a few days or weeks? 👉What about food? Are there special holiday treats you make? Do you enjoy doing this? Who buys the ingredients for the holiday meals? Who cooks the holiday meals (if you’re hosting?) 👉What activities are important during the holidays? Zoo lights? Drive-thru lights? The Nutcracker? Special family gatherings or religious gatherings? When do these happen? Can you get them on the calendar? Who is in charge of buying tickets? 👉Are you traveling or hosting? What needs to happen to make this go smoothly? This is your last chance for my holiday workshop! It helps you make the holidays magical for you and your family without wearing yourself out! https://lnkd.in/gBbZWBda #holidays #fairplaylife #magicforholidays #strideproductivty #workingmoms #workingmomlife #workingmothers #mompreneur #mompreneurlife #fairplayfacilitator #mentalload #workingmomproblems #workingmomstruggles  #Christmas #Christmas2024

Stress-Free Holiday Planning: Finding Joy in the Chaos! The festive season is here! For many, this time of year brings a mix of excitement and, let’s be honest, a bit of chaos. Between gift shopping, family gatherings, and wrapping up work deadlines, the holidays can feel more overwhelming than joyful. But here’s the thing: the festive season isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence, connection, and creating meaningful moments. Let me share a quick story. A friend of mine, Amaka, decided last December that she would host a perfect family Christmas. She made a detailed to-do list, bought matching pajamas for everyone, and planned a 5-course meal. By Christmas Eve, she was so stressed, she didn’t have the energy to enjoy the day itself. When the guests left, she realized she had spent more time coordinating than connecting. This year, let’s do it differently. Let’s aim for stress-free, not picture-perfect. Here are a few tips to enjoy the holidays without losing your sanity: 1. Plan early, but keep it simple: Prioritize what truly matters. Do you need a 5-course meal, or will a family potluck do? 2. Delegate: You don’t have to do everything. Let your partner, kids, or friends take on parts of the planning. 3. Budget wisely: Avoid January regrets by sticking to a realistic budget. The best gifts don’t have to break the bank. 4. Set boundaries: Respect your time and energy. Politely say no to events that don’t align with your priorities. 5. Pause to soak it in: Take moments to breathe, laugh, and appreciate the people around you. As we step into the holiday chaos, I want to hear from you: What’s one thing you’re doing to make this season more joyful and less stressful? Let’s inspire each other to keep the season light, bright, and full of love. #HolidayHacks #StressFreeFestivities #WorkLifeBalance