Feeling merry? Maybe not so much? You’re not alone. As much the holidays can be filled with good sales and good cheer, it’s also a time of stress for many entrepreneurs. And if you’re trying to run a handmade or art biz while holding down a full-time job – just stop everything right now, close your eyes and take three deep breathes. Feeling merry? Maybe not so much? You’re not alone. As much the holidays can be filled with good sales and good cheer, it’s also a time of stress for many entrepreneurs. And if you’re trying to run a handmade or art biz while holding down a full-time job – just stop everything right now, close your eyes and take three deep breaths.

Now here’s a list of holiday “don’ts” that can help you get more out of the last few weeks of 2018.

1. Don’t add anything new to the list

Yes, everyone’s jumping on the Instagram bandwagon, but now is not the time to start your own channel from scratch. Sure, it’s easy enough to get started but in a couple of days you’ll feel the guilt that comes with not updating your social media accounts and soon this fantastic and fun marketing channel will become just another “to do” on a never-ending list.

If you aren’t already doing something, don’t start now. There’s always next year.

2. Don’t beat yourself up for not keeping up with what you have been doing

So you already have an Instagram and a YouTube channel and a weekly commitment to write a blog post. That’s great when it’s June but in December, something’s gotta give. Yes, consistency is the key on social media but the truth is, everyone else is so busy, they won’t hold a skipped day or week against you. If you have a big audience, announce that you’re taking a break and will be back after the holidays. You might be doing your fans a favor – one last video to squeeze in between Rudolph, Grinch and It’s a Wonderful Life.

3. Don’t forget to eat good foods and drink plenty of fluids

There’s always a lot of food around during the holidays but it’s usually the kind of food that leaves you feeling sleepy and sloppy. Make it a point to eat a healthy meal at least once a day to offset the sugary snacks. As for water, it may be cold outside but your body is still dying for a drink. Fill a large bottle or pitcher every morning and promise to finish it before you go to bed. When you’re hydrated, you’ll feel more energized and you’ll think more clearly – two things you really need this time of year.

4. Don’t skimp on the comfort and joy

When you have ten orders to get out by tomorrow and you have to make three of the items, it’s tempting to put on your Scrooge hat and say ba humbug to the holiday hubbub. But the holidays only roll around once a year, so let it in. Decorate your workspace. Play holiday music. Visit a local mall, garden center or holiday event and soak it all in. Not only will you feel more invested in the season, it might inspire you to create something new and amazing for your customers.

5. Don’t hesitate to contact us if we can help

We’ll be here manning the customer support lines if you run into any problems processing your orders or just need to add a special holiday touch to your IndieMade site. When you are ready to take a break, use our easy Vacation Mode tool to let your customers know that you’re away enjoying the holiday.

Happy holidays from all of us here at IndieMade