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As the end of the year approaches, you may find yourself rushing around, feeling you'll never get everything done in time. That often happens around the holidays, and even when it's not holiday season. We live in a world in which there never seems to be enough hours in the day. Even with a *to-do* list, it's difficult to be organized and get it all done.

Particularly around this time of the year, our stress level increases with the added responsibility of buying gifts for clients, attending holiday parties and unrealistic expectations of the holidays. We tend to put a lot more on our plate trying to do it all and do it well. What happens is we get overwhelmed and maybe even sick*Ughh!

Imagine getting everything done that needs to be done, being in control of your time, and enjoying the holidays!

After all, at the end of your life, would you look back and say, *I wish I had spent more time at the office?* It's more likely you*d be saying, *I wish I had more time to do the things I love the most.*

Here are 6 tips to help you take care of clients, reduce holiday stress and open up more time for you to enjoy the things that matter most.

1. Make a list of client gifts. Make a list of all the clients you need to buy gifts for. Look for gifts you can buy for multiple people and one store where you can buy these gifts. If you don*t like shopping, plan a single gift shopping day and do it sooner than later to avoid the holiday shopping craze. Or, do all your holiday shopping from home. Thanks to the Internet and catalogs, you can order gifts from the comfort of your office.

2. Target a client's interests. The gift you give is a direct reflection of your business. Try to find gifts that fit your clients* interests. Do they follow certain sport teams? Like a specific kind of music? Have a special hobby? Make it a point to learn your clients* interests over the course of doing business together. If you don*t know what your client enjoys, ask. You can also contact the assistant to find out what they like or dislike.

3. Reach out to clients. Give the gift of a phone call or note. Let your clients know how much you appreciate their business and say it with words. A little customer appreciation goes a long way and has you stand out from the crowd. Although the holidays may seem like the perfect time to give a gift, a phone call or note letting them know they are remembered during the holidays may be the best gift they get.

4. Refuse invitations. You don*t have to go to every party just because you*re invited. If party going becomes a chore or too exhausting, step back and slow down the pace. Attending a party you really don*t want to be at will feel more like an obligation than a choice. Put yourself first by setting boundaries for yourself by saying *no thanks.*

5. Adjust your expectations. Be realistic. Just because it's the holiday season, issues with clients and family may not always be joyous. Everything will not be perfect. The holidays bring up many different emotions for people and even for you. Expect a few bumps in the road and you'll be able to better deal with whatever comes your way.

6. Take time for yourself. With so much emphasis on spending time with family and friends, many people feel guilty taking time for themselves. Take it! When you consciously plan to have alone time, it keeps you centered and balanced. For the holidays, give yourself the gift of time. When you take care of yourself, you'll have more to give to your clients, your family, and your own life.

ASSIGNMENT:

Your assignment is simple. Block time on your calendar to rest, relax, and do the things that bring you the most joy at this time of year. The more you take care of yourself, the more you'll have to give to others in the coming year. Happy Holidays!

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