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Using Down Time

Here are some ideas of how you can use the down time you may experience during the holiday season:

Copyright by Cathy Stucker, The Idea Lady(tm)

You’ve probably been running around like crazy all year, putting out fires, keeping your business running, taking care of family issues, etc. You’re not alone, most of us have hectic schedules.

When I worked for a corporation, my favorite week to work was the week between Christmas and New Year’s Day. There were so many people out, no one could schedule meetings. The phone hardly rang, and it was quiet around the office. I got more done in that one week than in a typical two or three weeks.

Since being on my own, I’ve used that time to catch up on both business and personal projects that I had been trying to find time for. Here are some ideas of how you can use the down time you may experience during the holiday season:

Take care of those year-end accounting chores, such as getting receipts together and preparing for taxes.

Put together those new marketing materials you’ve been saying you need. Write brochure copy, choose a new logo or slogan, whatever.

Update your web site. Or create one if you don’t already have one.

Make a plan for next year. Think about your goals for next year, and how you plan to reach them. Put your plan in writing.

Write an article or two, and send them off to magazines, newsletters, ezines and/or web sites. Or get started on that book.

Not up to writing a book? Read one. Pick up that business book (or even a great novel) you haven’t had time to read.

Get organized. Catch up your filing, organize supplies, and get ready to get down to business.

Do you need a tax break? Buy a new computer or furniture before the end of the year if you need them and can deduct them. Or learn about retirement accounts that can reduce your taxes.

Relax. You’ve worked hard all year, so you deserve at least a day or two where you’re not running yourself ragged. Read by the fire, a cup of cocoa nearby. Go out to lunch someplace fun. Visit a museum. Get a massage. Indulge yourself--you’re worth it!