My Tips 1 - 3 (of 20) to survive the holiday rush of a cottage industry

Cottage Industry Picture borrowed from this website

It's my sense of humor to relate to myself as a cottage industry these days. My main products are hats, so it's just natural that fall and winter (including Christmas of course) are my busiest months.
It's a learning process to adapt to a lot of work and stress, and I do better each year. Here is how I manage:

1. Prepare yourself mentally that this 4th quarter of the year is going to be busy and hectic. But also your main biz months, so, just get used to the thought of less spare time and more work hours ahead of time. Let your family and friends know and don't plan major house renovations.

2. Take advantage of buying in bulk, sales and wholesale. If you find supplies online at a great price, go ahead and order. It saves you time running all over town among Christmas shoppers.
Have your packing supplies, tape and biz cards prepared.

3. Don't neglect healthy food and drinks...you'll need a lot of energy but don't want to feel weighed down by too much comfort food.
Lots of water, green tea, apple juice mixed with water and tea, a great pot of coffee in the morning. Peanuts (unsalted and dry roasted) contain a lot of lecithin for your nerves, but a handful will do. a delicious apple as dessert. whole grains in bread and cereals. Soy drinks or milk. Low fat cheeses and lunch meats. Fast pasta and tomato sauce dinners are nutritious and save you time in the kitchen.

To be continued...