Simple ways to beat the bustle before it begins… When you know your world is about to step into a high-stress time, consider implementing a few of these in order to give yourself a small edge up, for less stressing.
  • Brainstorm. Think of what overwhelms you most. Start there first, and then brainstorm how you can simplify those areas. Does your weekly kid carpool need to be rearranged? Maybe you do some extra shifts now and someone else can take yours during your busy time? Are there cleaning or shopping tasks you can get ahead on now before the bustle begins?
  • Get organized. Utilize a planner or organization app to get details out of your head.
  • Notepad on your dash! Sometimes the only slow-down you’ll feel is when you’re forced to stop at a red light. That’s ok. Keep a notepad and pen on your dash or close by for when you have to stop and jot something down. Don’t be on your phone while you’re driving!
  • Don’t forget to eat healthily now. Remember those airline attendant instructions to put on your oxygen mask first. Make sure you’re fed and healthy going into your bustle. Your immune system WILL take a hit, so nurture it now.
  • Simple snacks! Grab a tub and load up your vehicle with healthy, on-the-go snacks. Strive for minimally processed foods, like nuts, dried fruit, minimal-ingredient healthy granola bars (Kind, Luna, etc.), raisins, etc. There are even non-perishable milks and nut milks now for quick protein fixes.
  • Easy meals also! If you’re used to cooking for family members at home, see whom you can call on to help, and how you can simplify. 'Tis the season for take-out and easy meals. This is no time to channel your inner Martha Stewart. Utilizing paper plates, cups, etc. can also save you time and energy! If you’re a meal planner, you can cook some freezer meals ahead or do a calendar of meals.
  • Call on help. Can you line up friends and family members to take a weekly commitment off your hands? Schedule it now to avoid future panic.
  • Utilize online resources. Groceries can now be ordered online and picked up later, and bills can be pre-scheduled; if you’re needing financial support, there are online solutions for this also.
  • Ask someone to start a support network for you. Whether this is a text thread, private social media group, care.com account, or phone tree, gathering your network of supporters all in one spot can help when future unforeseen issues come up. (For example, if you end up having a day where you have to be at three appointments and simply can’t grab kids from school or attend a kid's recital, you can put it on blast and multiple people can see the request at once, saving you time from calling multiple people.)
  • Choose a wingman. This person can be your right-hand friend throughout the process. Perhaps they can organize that support network!
  • Talk to your employer (boss and human relations department). Make them aware of your upcoming season of busyness. You may be surprised at the extra support they’ll offer you!
  • Brush up on employer programs and rights. Many states offer family leave in addition to the nationally guaranteed job protection that comes when you need to take leave to care for yourself or a family member.
  • Bank some sleep. Don’t exhaust yourself before you even begin.
  • Delegate with Specific Intention. Can others help you get organized? Is your mother-in-law really knowledgeable about food in the area? Have her make you a list of restaurants near the doctor that offer take-out or delivery. Do you have friends feeling like they really want to help? Many don’t know how! Tell them. Ask them if they want to help, gift cards for on-the-go food, or gas, or coming to give you a massage in the waiting room, will all be welcome. People want to help, and you’ll stay saner if you ask specifically for what you want. And that way you won’t end up with 99 lasagnas and bouquets at your doorstep.
  • Practice saying no. Literally. Rehearse it. Without apology. You do not have to apologize for your situation. You have plenty of time to say yes. Later.