It is a testing time and one that is best anticipated and planned for if you do not wany to wear yourself out!

The best way to prepare is to make a list of what you need to do. For example ...

• Check babysitter availability.


• Check dates to avoid clashes and double booking


• Buy cards, or make them and in plenty of time


• Get the little black dress out and check it for marks.


• Write your gift list and a budget (people will understand if gifts are less expensive this year).


• Stock up on medical supplies, especially headache and indigestion remedies.


• Plan your Christmas menu, make a list of food you need and a budget to stick to.


• Organise taxis in good time to get you home from events. Don't leave it until the last minute as they will get booked up.


• Plan an evening when you and your immediate family can can gather your collective thoughts.


• Spend extra time at the gym to work off a few more pounds. That way it won't seem half as bad after the Christmas excesses.

Start to think about how you want the month to be, free from hassle, calm, peaceful, loving, abundant, enjoyable, fun and full of laughter.

Keep your focus on the positive in your life, ignore all the negative economic messages in the media; make your plans and move towards December with confidence taking it one step at a time.

By doing this you focus all of your energy on your outcomes, and starve your worries of thought and time (this really is a waste of energy). Remembering this will help you to get on and make progress and it makes life a much more pleasant journey. Keep your list visible and tick things off as you do them!

Finally, take a deep breath and blow away any clouds of anxiety to let your positive outlook commence. Remember what you believe, you will achieve.

• Helen Williams is a life, image and management development coach who has helped dozens of local men and women solve problems that everyday life throws at us.
  The 42-year-old mother-of-two works with companies as well as individuals and runs image and life-coaching clubs. She gave up a career in finance two years ago to become a life coach and can help with everything from phobias and weight issues to relationship and work worries. Send your questions to helipadlifestyles@talktalk.net or ring 07888 711714.