12 Days of productivity: Staying focused during the festive season

2. Create a festive-friendly schedule

It’s not all about work this time of year, you’ll likely have festive parties, team socials, or drinks with friends to attend. Keep a well-organised calendar so you can balance work with your other commitments. By planning ahead, you’ll avoid double-booking yourself and ensure you can enjoy those holiday moments guilt-free.

3. Outsource and delegate

You don’t have to do it all. Delegate tasks to your team, or if you’re a solopreneur, consider outsourcing. Whether it’s hiring a freelancer for marketing support or a VA to handle admin tasks, letting go of some responsibilities can free up your time for more important priorities.

4. Embrace flexible working hours

One of the perks of running your own business is having the freedom to set your schedule so take advantage of this. If mornings are your most productive time, start early and finish by mid-afternoon. Or perhaps carve out a long lunch to attend a holiday event. Flexible hours let you balance work with the joys of the season.

5. Set boundaries with clients and colleagues

Saying “yes” to everything might seem like good customer service, but it’s a fast track to burnout. Be upfront about your availability, and don’t be afraid to set limits. Let clients know your holiday working hours and try not to stray away from them. Polite boundaries can make all the difference in maintaining your sanity.

6. Use technology to streamline work

Why work harder when you can work smarter? There are countless tools and apps to help simplify your day. Use management software to organise tasks, automate email campaigns or to manage social media scheduling. Streamlining your workflow means more time to focus on what really matters.

7. Declutter your workspace

Your environment affects your mindset. A messy desk can lead to scattered thoughts, while a tidy workspace encourages clarity and focus. Take a few minutes each day to declutter. If you’re working from home and space is tight, consider spending time at a serviced office for a productivity boost.

8. Incorporate festive rewards

Motivate yourself by incorporating little festive rewards into your day. For example, finish a big project, and treat yourself to an early finish or a favourite holiday snack. These small incentives can keep you energised and make the busy season more enjoyable.

9. Schedule short, focused work sessions

Long workdays aren’t necessarily productive. Try breaking your day into shorter, focused sessions using techniques like the Pomodoro method. Work for 25 minutes, take a 5-minute break, and repeat. It keeps your mind fresh and your energy levels up, even on the busiest days.

10. Plan ahead for the New Year

Don’t let the festive season consume all your attention. Use some of this time to look ahead. Set goals for the coming year, outline projects, and brainstorm ideas for growth. Visualising your future success can keep you inspired while providing a head start for January.

11. Plan "theme days" for festive productivity

Add structure and a touch of fun by dedicating specific days to themed tasks. For instance: "Marketing Monday" for planning social media posts and campaigns. "Finance Friday" for invoicing and reviewing budgets. "Teamwork Tuesday" for collaborating with your team on year-end strategies.

12. Don't forget self-care

Let’s face it: running a small business during the holidays can be exhausting. Prioritise self-care to avoid burnout. Take breaks, get outside for a winter walk, or schedule downtime for yourself. Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup, so look after yourself first.