Your Ultimate Pre-Holiday Checklist to Fully Disconnect This Year

Holidays are right around the corner, and for a lot of interior designers, the idea of fully disconnecting sounds like wishful thinking. End-of-year project crunches, a flood of to-dos, and the constant “just one last thing” requests can make even a short getaway feel impossible. But here’s the good news: with a few smart moves, you can get your affairs in order in a way that actually lets you unplug, feel at ease, and enjoy quality time with the people who matter most.

So, here’s your pre-holiday checklist. Let’s make this the year you can disconnect without the nagging feeling that the business will go up in flames in your absence.

1. Set Up an “Out of Office” (That Covers Everything)

The classic out-of-office reply can be a lifesaver if it’s set up right. Don’t just drop in dates—use this as a chance to be clear about expectations, both for your clients and for you. Set it up to start a day before your break, giving you some breathing room to wrap up any last-minute needs without a flood of “while you’re still here” requests. For a gentle heads-up, consider adding your upcoming OOO dates to your email signature a few weeks in advance. In your out-of-office message, make sure to include:

  • The exact dates you’ll be out of reach.

  • A “when to expect a response” timeframe for after your return.

  • A helpful contact in case of emergencies (a colleague or assistant, if available).

  • Some encouragement for the client to relax and enjoy the season, too.

Try wording it as a friendly note rather than a stiff business email. For example:

“Happy holidays! I’ll be away starting December 20th and returning to emails on January 3rd. I’ll catch up on messages in the order they arrive when I return, so don’t worry if there’s a short delay. Wishing you a restful, joyful season!”

2. Identify Priority Projects and Communicate Early

A couple of weeks before you log off, make a list of your open projects and categorize them by priority. Focus on what truly needs to happen before the break and what can wait until January. Then, communicate your timeline and availability clearly with each client. This can save you from “just a quick change” emails at the last minute.

Consider emailing clients to let them know where things stand, along with any next steps they should expect. Being proactive here reassures them that things are on track and lets you set clear boundaries about your availability.

3. Automate Reminders and Updates

Automation is your friend when you’re away. Set up automated email reminders for clients to keep them updated on timelines, due dates, and status updates. This could be as simple as an automated calendar notification or an email scheduled through your email service.

Think about these quick automations:

  • Scheduling reminders to send after the holidays, nudging clients if they have tasks to complete.

  • Reminders for you (or your assistant) about tasks that may need attention as soon as you return.

A quick setup can ensure clients aren’t left wondering what’s next and keep you from mentally rehashing what might fall through the cracks.

4. Delegate What You Can

If you’re feeling stretched, this might be the perfect time to consider delegating some of your workload. Tasks like managing client communications, organizing project details, and handling administrative odds and ends can be handed off to free up your time and let you fully disconnect. If you have an assistant or team, create shared documents and checklists so everyone knows who’s covering what while you’re away.

And if you don’t have a team in place, we, at Elite Design Assistants, can match you with virtual design assistants with specialties across project management, client support, social media, and beyond. There are experienced professionals ready to help take tasks off your plate so you can focus on what matters most this season. 

5. Get Your Finances Ready for a Fresh Start 

Before you head out, take some time to close out any lingering financial tasks. Invoice all remaining clients for completed work, make any last-minute payments, and consider reconciling your accounts. This gives you a clean slate when you’re back and prevents the classic “back to work” financial overwhelm.

If this sounds like a lot, just aim to get any “must-haves” done. You don’t need perfection here—just enough to help you come back without any big surprises.

6. Set Some Time for Yourself

It’s hard to relax if you go from full throttle to “vacation mode” in the blink of an eye. If possible, give yourself a day (or even an afternoon) to wind down before diving into holiday mode. Use this time to wrap up loose ends, plan for a smooth start to the new year, and do something for you. Even if it’s just half a day, this short pause can do wonders for your ability to relax. 

7. Give Yourself Permission to Disconnect

This one’s a little different—it’s about your mindset. Chances are you’re dedicated to your clients, and that’s great. But remember: if you’ve set everything up, there’s nothing to worry about. You’ve prepped, planned, and communicated. The wheels will keep turning, and you’ll be back before you know it.

Try to remind yourself that you deserve a break as much as anyone else. For interior designers, creative and personal recharge isn’t a luxury; it’s essential. So embrace this time with family and friends, knowing that you’ve set yourself up for a worry-free holiday. 

Happy holidays, and here’s to a restful (and well-deserved) break!

xx, Danae

Six Doable Ways to Add Self-Care into Your Workday

On some work days, you may find you just don’t have any time left for yourself. You had wanted to prepare a wholesome meal or hit the gym, but they got pushed to the back burner. And at the end of the day, you’re feeling neglected…by yourself. Sound familiar?

I propose a different approach. Why not focus on implementing small-scale actions that can seamlessly integrate into your day, rather than viewing self-care as a separate task that can be postponed or shuffled aside? By incorporating even a single intentional act of self-care into your daily routine, you can steer yourself toward a greater sense of well-being. Besides, if you’re feeling better, your business will be in better hands.

In that spirit, here are 6 examples of little ways you can add some self-care into your work day, starting today.

Take Real Breaks

Instead of mindlessly getting caught up in phone scrolling as a means of escaping stress throughout the day, grant yourself the gift of a genuine break. Set a time limit, allowing yourself to fully detach from work without any guilt. Use this time for activities that replenish your energy and promote well-being, such as taking a brisk walk, indulging in stretching exercises, reflecting through journaling, repeating affirmations, or simply savoring a refreshing glass of water while consciously relaxing your breath. These micro-breaks can boost your energy levels, improve focus, and reduce mental fatigue.

Set the Mood

As interior designers, you’re a pro at making other people’s spaces beautiful, but in all the chaos, your own workspace might be missing out on that TLC. Bring one or two small details that bring you joy into your workspace, like a scented candle or plant. Evaluate whether your setup is ergonomic and comfortable for you. Buy that cute stone mug that you’ll be reaching for throughout the day. Your workspace should reflect your personal style and be a source of inspiration and tranquility as you work your magic.

Engage in Mindful Eating

It's common for professionals to eat lunch at their desks while multitasking. However, practicing mindful eating can bring a sense of calm and enjoyment to your workday. Take the time to savor your meals, focusing on the flavors, textures, and aromas. Eating mindfully not only promotes better digestion but by paying attention to your body's needs and nourishing yourself with nutritious meals, you'll feel more energized and ready to tackle your design projects. 

Establish Necessary Boundaries

Getting into the habit of setting healthy boundaries with clients and colleagues is a transformative practice that can shield you from unnecessary stress and conserve your valuable time and energy. By recognizing and asserting your boundaries, you regain control over how your projects unfold, striking a balance between taking charge and accepting the elements beyond your control. This shift in mindset enables you to operate from a place of peace and empowerment.

Express Appreciation

In the whirlwind of the workday, it's easy to get caught up in the relentless cycle of tasks and responsibilities. But it’s so worth it to pause and acknowledge both your personal accomplishments and those of your team. Let yourself bask in the satisfaction and say, "Yes! I nailed it!" Go out of your way to recognize and appreciate the outstanding work of your team members. By cultivating this positive atmosphere, you're nurturing yourself and those around you, fostering a space where you can thrive.

Follow an EOD Routine

Allocate the final 10 minutes of your workday to check off tasks and review your agenda for the following day. By following this ritual, you can ensure that everything is in order and gain a sense of accomplishment. Being clear on what awaits you the next day provides peace of mind and allows for a genuine disconnection from work. Rather than constantly wondering if you overlooked something important, you can truly relax and enjoy your time away from the office.

Remember, self-care is not a luxury; it's a vital ingredient for your overall well-being and success. By incorporating these small acts of self-care into your workday, you are taking proactive steps to prioritize your needs and nurture yourself. So, starting today, make a commitment to infuse your day with moments of self-care. You deserve it, and your professional journey will thrive as a result.

 xx, Danae


DIGITAL TEMPLATES?

We love helping busy interior designers like you! So, in an effort to provide the best resources possible, WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU about what templates you’d like to see from us. Browse our current collection of templates here for any you might need or want, and email us at danae@elitedesignassistants.com to let us know what other templates you’d like us to make and have available for instant download!