The holidays can feel like a sprint with a suitcase. Marissa and Joel show you how to lighten the load with four concrete moves: define non-negotiables, eliminate what doesn’t matter, delegate what doesn’t require you, and (yes) procrastinate strategically. You’ll get scripts, shortcuts, and a Not-To-Do list for creating breathing room—at work and at home.
Key Takeaways
- Name Your Non-Negotiables. Brain dump everything for December, then identify the items that truly must happen. Accept that not everything will get done—and choose what will.
- Run the “Everything Must Go” Sweep. Cancel or reschedule recurring meetings, low-value check-ins, and nice-to-have socials. If it can be an email (or nothing), make it one.
- Resign as Chief Everything Officer. At home: potluck the menu, batch one meaningful gift for everyone, use gift bags, outsource a couple dishes, trade childcare. At work: hand off distinct slices of projects, hire a contractor for time-sinks, and coach for skill—not constant review.
- Procrastinate on Purpose. Push arbitrary deadlines to January. Ask, “What part truly must happen now—and what can wait?” Renegotiate timelines for excellence, not exhaustion.
- Keep Self-Care Simple. Downshift to minimums that maintain energy (a 20-minute walk, earlier lights-out, simplified meals). Save the “perfect routine” for January.
Watch on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/dQpOs_bTd9g
This episode was produced by Sarah Vorhees Wendel of VW Sound
