Let’s face it – when you are self employed it is VERY hard to “turn off” and not let work be the focus of every single breath! There always seems to be one more thing to do: update that webpage, post some new photos from the session last week, make sure all the receipts are together for the accountant, clean all the crap off your desk (again!), tweak the website wording (for the third time this week), order new marketing materials… the list goes on! With that being said, we are very bad and down time, so I’m here to share a post on how to enjoy the holidays.

I know, it sounds like it would be easy… but is it really?!

How to Enjoy the Holidays

Step 1: Stop Working

We’re gonna call this your lightbulb moment (like Gru has in this clip) because it really is that easy. If you want to get the most out of this season, close the computer, turn off the “open” light, and just stop working! I want to make the most of this season, so I’ve already clearly communicated to clients that we are closing up Fresh Look from December 22nd – January 2nd.

Now – between you me and the wall, am I really going to do nothing those two weeks I’m closed?

Not really.

We have an (almost) New Years Eve wedding to shoot, a homecoming to capture, and I’ve got TONS of sessions to catch up on blogging. However, the majority of my time is going to be spent with my family hanging out, making memories, and getting some stuff around the house done.

I am also automating as much as I can right now: using away messages for email, creating automated posts that will pop up using Later, and scheduling social media to post while I’m out having fun!

Step 2: Turn on Some Christmas Music

I don’t care who you are, there is something downright magical about Bing Crosby singing “White Christmas“, and it always seems to put me in a better mood!

If traditional holiday tunes aren’t your thing, there are TONS of options for whatever your musical preferences might be. Around here, we pretty much have the “Josh Groban Christmas Station” playing constantly on Pandora. It’s a great blend of Josh Groban, Michael Buble, Trans Siberian Orchestra and lots more!

Step 3: Pour Yourself a Glass of Something Delicious

Whether your drink of choice is a margarita, the newest red blend, or a glass of champagne – you really can’t go wrong with a festive drink to get you in the holiday spirit! I love making hot mulled wine during the Christmas season, and my friend Tiffany just showed me a drink recipe for an apple figgy cocktail (really want to try that out!).

Step 4: Indulge

There are so many delicious things to enjoy this time of year, take time to really embrace the moment and indulge in things that will make your heart happy. Whether that’s a long soak in the tub, or having just one more homemade cookie – tis the season for making spirits merry and bright.

Step 5: Plan for FUN

I firmly believe that if isn’t not fun, we shouldn’t be doing it (seriously, it’s my life mantra!). But we all know that it is NOT fun standing with a 2 year old in line at Bed Bath & Beyond trying to get that last minute present – so how do you make it fun?!

As I mentioned before, we’ve got some things planned for our off time (like finally painting the front foyer) which isn’t that much fun, but we are also planning some fun outings for our little family. We will be hitting up the VA Aquarium, going to see the new Star Wars movie (again), making a huge breakfast spread for dinner, etc.

So there you have it: how to enjoy the holidays in 5 easy steps! I am SO excited for this wonderful time of the year and hope that you and your family have a very Merry Christmas!