The Simple Holiday Planning Trick Every Mom Needs to Try

Why Writing a Holiday Priority List Might Be the Most Productive Thing You Do All Year

Ever feel like the holidays arrive like a freight train—and you’re somehow the one expected to be the conductor, the engine, and the caboose?

🎄 The decorating, the parties, the gifts, the traditions, the food…
And oh yeah—the actual meaning of the season you want to enjoy.

Let’s cut to the truth: most of the holiday magic (and labor) falls on you, Mama.

But here’s the deal—there’s a simple, powerful way to protect your time, your sanity, and your joy this season:

✍️ Write a holiday priority list. On paper. With a pen. For real.

It’s Not Just a List—It’s a Reset

I know it sounds basic. But don’t scroll past this.
Writing out your holiday goals—by hand—does more than just organize your thoughts.

🧠 Research shows that writing by hand improves memory, focus, and decision-making more than typing does. When you physically write something down, you’re more likely to prioritize it and follow through.
(Source: Psychology Today)

And with so many competing priorities this time of year, clarity is everything.

Why Moms Especially Need This

According to a national survey by Time2Play and OnePoll:

• 69% of moms say they’re in charge of managing all holiday logistics
  
• Only 23% say they feel appreciated for it 
  
  

That’s a whole lot of weight on your shoulders.
No wonder it feels overwhelming.

A written list gives you back control. It helps you decide—before the season starts—what actually matters most to your family this year.

Because when everything feels like a priority, nothing gets your best energy.

How to Do It (Maria Style)

Here’s what I teach inside the Mom MBA community (and exactly what I shared in the podcast episode):

Step 1: Write it down—on paper

Yes, good old-fashioned paper. Grab a notebook or even a sticky pad.
List the traditions, events, and activities that actually matter to you.
Santa photos? Cookie baking? Holiday party with friends? Whatever brings meaning and joy—write it down.

Step 2: Transfer to a digital list

Now, let’s be realistic—paper gets lost (or chewed up by toddlers).
Once you’ve thought through your list, open your phone.
I recommend using the Reminders app (on iPhone) or Google Keep (on Android). Enter each priority as a separate item.

Step 3: Drag and drop to prioritize

Here’s the magic—use the ability to move list items up and down.
Put your non-negotiables at the top.
This makes it easier to say “yes” to what matters and “no” to what doesn’t.

When a last-minute invite pops up, you’ve already done the decision-making in advance.

Bonus Tip: Involve Your Family

Once you’ve got your list, share it.
Let your spouse and kids see what the family’s focused on this year.
This helps set expectations—and gives you backup when you say, “Nope, we’re skipping the fifth Christmas party this week.”

🎁 You’re not being a Grinch. You’re being a smart, strategic Mom CEO who’s choosing presence over pressure.