How to Survive Christmas Without Losing Your Mind or Your Clients!
by Kate Gomsi

Christmas/New Year can be the ultimate work/life balance challenge for many people. Following are just a few ideas to help you navigate the minefield of personal and business responsibilities.

· Plan to Survive.
Everyone's heard the saying "plan to succeed". Well at Christmas you have to plan just to survive! Brainstorm a personal and business list of things to do e.g.. Staff roster, Christmas cards (clients and friends), order the turkey, arrange the office cocktail party, check inventory etc. Then prioritise and delegate.

· Reduce Your Stress - Outsource.
You don't have to take on everything by yourself. While finances may be tight, review your To Do list and consider what may be done more efficiently by a third party.

· Taking a Break?
If you intend to close your business over the holiday period, inform your clients and provide them with interim solutions if appropriate. You could include a note in a Christmas card, send an email or better yet, give your key clients a personal phone call.

· Appreciate Your Staff.
If you have employees or contractors Christmas is the perfect time to show them that you also understand their work/life balance issues. Consider giving each of them a time to shop or arrange their celebrations. You will be rewarded with a more committed and appreciative team.

· A Joint Christmas Party.
Identify other businesses that complement your own and throw a joint Christmas or New Year party for clients and suppliers. This not only reduces costs but introduces everyone to potential new business.

· Make the Most of the Down Time.
Most businesses are quiet over this time but don't lose your momentum! Get on top of the administration, plan your next big marketing push, write personal thank you notes to your major clients or work out how you will achieve greater balance in 2003.

· Kick-start the New Year.
Don't give your clients an excuse to do business with anyone else. Make sure they know when you are open for business again. Call, email or visit them to wish them a Happy New Year - and maybe even mention that latest promotion you have starting soon!

· Enjoy Yourself!
Return refreshed from Christmas and you will find inspiration and opportunities all around you.