December 2025

Hand writing "TIME TO PLAN" on a clock face, symbolizing the importance of year-end reflection and future planning for personal development.

Year End Review

Organize Your Life, Video / By Miriam Ortiz y Pino

As the year winds down, this is the perfect time to pause long enough to look back, gather real feedback from your own life, and decide what you want to carry forward into the new year. In this week’s More Than Organized Monday, I talk about the simple review process I use every December to […]

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Glass bottles of varying sizes displayed on a rustic wooden shelf, reflecting themes of decluttering and organization in a year-end review context.

Declutter and be More than Organized

Organize Your Life / By Miriam Ortiz y Pino

I have been thinking about what it means to declutter. I’ve also been thinking about what the phrase More than Organized means, and how it evolved into the name of my business. So here is the story. When I decided to become a Professional Organizer I came up with a whole list of possible business

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Red and white wrapping paper rolls with a gray ribbon, representing holiday gift preparation and organization for a stress-free season.

Make the Holidays Easier

Organize Your Life, Video / By Miriam Ortiz y Pino

The holidays are coming quickly, and even if you love this time of year, the extra events, hosting, shopping, and shifting schedules can make everything feel a little heavier. In this week’s conversation, I share simple ways to make the season easier by thinking ahead, setting clear expectations, and removing the stress points that always

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Tips for Effective Holiday Planning

Effective holiday planning can significantly reduce stress and enhance your enjoyment of the season. Start by creating a detailed calendar that includes important dates, such as family gatherings, shopping deadlines, and personal commitments. This proactive approach allows you to allocate time wisely and ensures you don't overlook any crucial tasks.

Incorporate checklists for gift shopping, meal preparation, and decoration to streamline your processes. For instance, categorize gifts by recipient and prioritize your shopping list based on availability and budget. By organizing your tasks, you can tackle them systematically, allowing for a more enjoyable holiday experience.

Managing Holiday Stress

Managing stress during the holidays is essential for maintaining your well-being. Acknowledge that it's normal to feel overwhelmed and prioritize self-care practices, such as taking breaks, practicing mindfulness, or engaging in physical activity. These strategies can help you recharge and approach holiday tasks with a clearer mindset.

Consider setting realistic expectations for yourself and your loved ones. Instead of striving for perfection, focus on creating meaningful moments and memories. For example, if hosting a gathering feels daunting, simplify the menu or delegate tasks to family members to foster collaboration and reduce pressure.

Creating a Holiday Budget

Establishing a holiday budget is crucial for avoiding financial stress. Begin by determining how much you can comfortably spend on gifts, decorations, and events. This clear financial framework helps you make informed decisions and prevents overspending, allowing you to enjoy the season without financial strain.

Utilize budgeting tools or apps to track your expenses and adjust your plans as necessary. For example, if you find that your spending on gifts exceeds your budget, consider alternative options like handmade presents or experiences that foster connection without breaking the bank.

Involving Family in Holiday Preparations

Involving family members in holiday preparations can enhance bonds and distribute responsibilities. Encourage everyone to participate in activities like decorating, cooking, or planning events. This collaborative approach not only lightens your workload but also creates a sense of shared ownership and excitement for the holidays.

Host family meetings to discuss plans and solicit input on activities, ensuring that everyone feels included. For example, allowing children to choose a holiday movie or a special dish can make them feel valued and invested in the festivities, leading to a more harmonious holiday atmosphere.