As we enter the holiday season and the joy that it brings make sure to focus on your priorities and get the most important things done so it isn’t the most exhausting time of the year.

I know. I know. It sounds like I’m about to spoil all of your spontaneous fun.

But am I…

If you’ve stuck around me for more than a minute or two, you’ve probably heard me say that boundaries don’t constrain you - they actually free you!

Seriously, folks. Boundaries give us SO much freedom. 

First, boundaries give us left and right limits.

I know - limits don’t sound freeing.

Think about it this way. Is it easier to stay on a road that is well marked with lane lines or on a dusty path with no clear markings?

Of course it is easier to stay on the well marked road. 

The lane lines: 

• keep us headed in the right direction
• prevent us from having an accident with oncoming traffic and 
• allow us to relax and enjoy the journey as we travel toward our destination.

Second, boundaries prevent overwhelm.

I don’t know about you but the possibility of EVERYTHING being an option sounds a little overwhelming to me.

Before starting on a journey you usually determine your destination. We can do the same thing in making decisions about how we will spend our time. 

Begin by taking the time to establish your priorities. Opportunities that align with your priorities fall within your boundaries. Those are your options. 

You still have choices - just not so many choices that you don’t know where to begin. 

 
Third, boundaries free us to say "yes" to the right things.

Have you ever found yourself overcommitted? I’m sure that everything you said yes to was a good and worthwhile cause. You just said yes a few too many times.

Over the years I have tried my hardest to demonstrate otherwise but we each have finite time, energy and resources. That means we have to make choices. 

When we say yes to everything we don’t actually have the time or energy that we would like to spend on the right things.

Now that your priorities and boundaries are clear, let’s boil it down to a few simple steps:

1- Put your highest priority events on your calendar first.

2- Determine your preparation timeline for your highest priorities & block your prep  time on your calendar.

3- Build in some buffer time so that you aren’t rushed.

4- Politely say "no" to events and activities that fall outside of your boundaries.

5- Relax and enjoy your holiday events with family and friends.

Y'all have a great week!

     Renee'