How to stay sane in December and thrive in early 2021.

With Thanksgiving behind us (shout-out to the 79 people who picked up pies from us last week!), the holiday season train keeps rolling right through to today's Cyber Monday sales and all of the typical madness of the next month—with COVID adding an extra dose of fun. (Do you detect our sarcasm?)

Look out for your future self by doing these 5 things this month:

1. Plan one thing to look forward to next year. Italy might be off the table for the foreseeable future, but it doesn't mean all fun is impossible. Plan a camping trip for the spring or book an Airbnb with no wifi so you can truly unplug. Or sign up for that online cooking or mindfulness course you've been wanting to take.

2. Give what you can. There are so many ways you can help others in need right now, and giving money is only one way. Food banks and animal shelters always need helping hands, especially around the holidays—find out how you can make a difference locally. You'll feel good, and more connected, while helping out.

3. Book your 2021 maintenance appointments. One of our team members has a tradition of getting all her annual medical check-ups scheduled and done in January. No more nagging feelings of needing to visit your dentist! (This NatGeo article explains why you shouldn't put off routine maintenance, like dental care, during COVID, and what safety precautions dentists are taking. But don't do anything that makes you feel unsafe!)

4. Use holiday sales to buy one small thing that will make your life easier. It's tempting to buy ourselves presents right now, but don't spoil any surprises someone else might have planned for you. Resist what you want and get what you really need, like those blue light blocking glasses you've been eyeing (pun entirely intended) for working from home, or a couple pairs of high quality socks that are so warm you won't be tempted to turn the heat up this winter.

5. Review your finances and set your money goals. This year has been tough on a lot of people's finances. Even if you've remained employed during COVID, your spending habits have likely changed. Take some time to review your 2020 spending and find opportunities to reduce your spending or reallocate your saving. Plan for possible student loan repayment returning in 2021, and calculate how many months of emergency savings you have or need to be in good shape.