1. Master List
The number one key to holiday organization is to put the list that’s in your head down on paper. Create your holiday to-do list and revel in the satisfaction as you cross off items one by one. Create separate lists as needed. For example, from your master list, make a note to refer to the gift list when the holiday shopping items comes up on your to-do list.

Next: Overbooked

2. Overbooked
It’s time to put your planners, whether in paper or electronic form, to good use around the holidays to avoid overbooking parties and commitments. Remember to leave extra free or available time as the holidays approach to allow for those last minute errands that may arise.

Next: Recipes

3. Recipes
Gather up all the holiday recipes you can find. If you like traditional, dedicate a folder or a notebook just to holiday recipes. Progressive and modern types can start bookmarking favorite recipes found online for easy reference when the time comes.

Next: Prepare Your Arsenal

4. Prepare Your Arsenal
There are presents to be wrapped and decorations to be placed, so get your holiday arsenal ready by ensuring you have the basics in stock, like gift wrap paper (try the recycled kind this year), tape or string, scissors and festive pens. Stay organized by keeping these items in a location that is readily accessible when you need them.

Next: Put On Your Writing Hat

5. Put On Your Writing Hat
It’s no doubt that there is a certain convenience to e-cards and other computerized holiday greetings, but reserve those for your distant acquaintances. For your closer friends and family, this means it’s time to reminisce back to the days of paper and pen as you hand write your holiday greetings. Divide your time according to how many you plan on writing this year, with one day devoted to writing, and the other for addressing. Be sure you know the postage required on those larger and square envelopes.

Next: Housekeeping 101

6. Housekeeping 101
Spring cleaning usually refers to deep cleaning, while the holidays may be synonymous with swift cleaning. Most people are pressed for time this year, so be sure to hit the important areas of your house like carpets, dry dusting, organizing your kitchen and polishing the silverware. If you’re going to be entertaining, you may want to just focus on the areas in your home that guests will actually see and use, like bathrooms, and close the door to the other rooms.

Next: Freeze It

7. Freeze It
What could say “organized” more than preparing cakes and other items ahead of time? Cookies, soups and many dinners all freeze well, so free up your time around the holidays by being proactive and preparing these ahead of holiday crunch time.

Next: Up, Up and Away

8. Up, Up and Away
If you’re planning holiday travel this year, be sure that all of your reservations have been confirmed. If you plan on flying, be sure to obtain seat assignments in advance of your flight if you will be traveling with kids. Start packing as early as possible to avoid the last minute rush, but avoid over-packing.