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

Do Less and Enjoy More During the Holidays