We're entering the last month of the year. But before we say goodbye to the year, we say hello to one of the most confusing months in the calendar. We're always unsure how to go about the Christmas season. Are we spending days eating? Do we try to do work? Which parties are we attending (pre-pandemic)?

Before we dive into the next few weeks, it's best to know what we are getting ourselves into.

In fact, the start of the month is an excellent time for us to reflect on what has transpired the month before. Even better, it's the perfect time to embrace all that lies in the month ahead. Whatever your situation is, whether you are trying to make the best out of a WFH life or a tier-lockdown holiday, know that planning is your best move.

When you fail to plan, you plan to fail. So let's get organized and sort out our priorities!

1. Set Specific Goals

We all have big goals. Go down a few sizes, learn a new language, save up more money, and so on.

The only way for long-term goals to be achieved is by setting short-term, specific goals.

For example, if you wish to lose weight this year, target to exercise at a given time every week. This way, you are moving closer to your big goal.

When the month ends, you can check back on your goal and see if you've made progress.

2. Plot Out your Calendar

Don't be the friend that forgets other's birthdays or special occasions. Nothing is messier than someone who forgets to pay bills or pass deadlines.

Use the start of the month to jot down all that you need to do within the month.

Start with due dates, deadlines, and projects. Break them into little tasks spread out through the weeks.

3. Create a Budget

Saving does not happen by accident. You must intentionally decide how much you want to save, and how much you can spend on. When you create a budget and dutifully stick to it, you can plan your month accordingly.

4. Clean Up

There are things in our life we don't really care to clean. While your household may be impeccable, you may have items that you often neglect. Your handbag is one of them. Take out all the items, throw out old receipts, clean in and out.

It might be your cellphone that needs some cleaning. Delete unnecessary pictures, unread emails, and old notes. This way, you have more space for more photos in the coming month.

These are just four things that can help improve your life. A little effort goes a long way to make you on top of your game.