Happy New Year!
Welcome to 2010. As we reflect back on the year, the top of mind thought seems to be...how do I improve upon last year's plan? Hey, so many choices, lol.
If you were 'home for the holidays', you might be considering how to make that time a bit smoother. Let's talk about that...what is so 'normal' in family from everywhere gathering under one roof for days, 24/7, to blend naturally? Ok, so it works most of the time, but if it didn't for you, hey, it's ok.
As an executive, has your mind relaxed during those days, or were you still needing to answer phone calls, emails, texts, while nodding to relatives as though you were listening, yet you were managing a business in your head? If it was the latter, hey, it's ok.
As a spouse, were you trying to help everything, everybody, smooth out, juggling tasks and personalities, hoping for the best? Did you find yourself one exhausted heap landing in a comfy chair by 9 p.m. only to know it will be 'ground hog's day' to do over the next day?
So how do we plan better for the coming year to make all this smoother for the next holiday? How do we find a nice balance so we may enjoy 'creating memories' that are positive for our family? How is it done?
My suggestions begin with organization. Make a list of what needs to be done, even as long as it may be, and then start eating that elephant one bite at a time. How?
I start in the summer buying presents along the way and keeping a list of who they go to; wrap and keep in one place along with that list; if you travel to a holiday destination to see family, plan ahead with members making a plan and then a back-up plan; keeping things simple. If a 'family tradition' is just not working out, why are we so reluctant in keeping them? Make a new plan; make a new tradition. Holiday cards...address in the summer and keep ready to mail. Anything you can do ahead of time, do it. Trust me, even at that, there is a full schedule waiting, but perhaps it will be the fun events that you enjoy instead of chores.
Trying to do this holiday plan alone? Solicit family help. This should not be a solo event...involve the choir (ok, my music background analogy).
Home for the holidays? The novice are trying it out, experimenting what works. For those of us who have done it for many years...well, we are still trying to master it. Regardless, the efforts are well spent, but a plan that makes it easier is always welcomed!
Have a Happy and Blessed New Year...Colette
About Me
- Colette Young
- Colette Young started ExecuMate because she felt compelled to share her life journey of challenging opportunities and joyful successes as a top executive spouse. In 2005 Colette followed her husband Larry’s career to Dallas, Texas where he now serves as President and CEO of Dr Pepper Snapple Group. As the wife of a successful, top corporate executive for 20 years, Colette young knows the value of being a supportive spouse and all the challenges and opportunities that come with such a role. Colette received a B.S. and M.S. of Music Education from MO State University. Her own success in business and life includes a career as a professional musician, pianist, vocalist, and passion for golf (single-digit handicap). She combines them in her speaking and coaching to create a memorable and engaging experience. She draws on her broad experiences as an educator, musician, business owner, golfer and importantly, a helpmate to her husband’s career to present a unique message. Her message is one of balance in life and work—sharing a journey of unending opportunities, fearless decisions and win-by-choice outcomes through attitude, adaptability and accountability.