How Authors Can Prioritize During the Holiday Rush

Avoid Holiday Burnout

I don't know about you, but I find this time of year to be equal parts inspiring and overwhelming.

Speaking from personal experience, I know that overwhelm can lead to inaction. If I can't do everything, then it feels like I can't do anything. Which- when I stop and think about it- I know is not true.

If this sounds familiar, then I'm inviting you to join me in setting some priorities.

Pick 3 Things to Focus on This Week:

#1- A Personal Action: Choose something that will be personally fulfilling to you. Whether it's listening to a new podcast, changing up your morning walking route, or downloading a mediation app, find something that will be restorative or inspiring.

#2- A Professional Action: What is one thing in your work that you want to focus on this week? Maybe it's updating your author website, reaching out to a local bookstore to schedule an event, or signing up for an author training that you've been meaning to take*. Choose something that you want to check off your list- and make it happen.

#3- A Social Action: What feels important to you right now? And how can you support that cause? Prioritize taking action this week by making a donation, signing a petition, or educating yourself about topics that impact your broader community.

Setting Priorities for Myself and My Business:

I’ll go first. Here are my priorities for this week:

#1: A Personal Action: I’m committed to creating some new traditions with my family this year, starting with Chanukah and extending into Christmas. Want to learn a little bit more about my interfaith holidays? Check out this post on Finding Tradition During a Traditionally Hectic Time.

#2: A Professional Action: I’m planning a winter retreat with my Mastermind group! I can’t wait to do our annual goal setting for the year. Want to learn more about how this Mastermind works and why it might be a good model for your own professional growth? Check out this behind-the-scenes interview.

#3: A Social Action: This year instead of printing and mailing holiday cards, my family is repurposing those funds into a donation for House N2 Home, a local organization that resettles people out of homelessness. Later this week we’ll be shopping for cleaning supplies and household items to donate to this incredible group.

What about you? What are your priorities? Comment below!