How do you do it Father Christmas?

You probably know that every year I get zillions of letters from squillions of children. What you probably don’t know is that I get oodles of letters from adults too. Most of them are asking for presents, iPads being very popular this year, but some of them are asking for a little bit of advice, “How do you do it?

Now, I can’t start taking responsibility for delivering presents to adults, I’ve got far too much to do with making sure I get everything delivered to more than 526 million children, under the age of 14, who celebrate Christmas and, taking all the time zones into consideration, I only have about 31 hours to do it! 

What I can do though, is share a few tips on how to get to grips with your BIG project for 2012. 

At the top of my list is Planning… it’s crucial. 

Think ahead and do your research. I always think of a DIY job, when you get everything prepared and in place to create the perfect foundation for applying the final coat of paint. When you plan ahead your end result will be more appropriate and longer lasting.

Second is Focus. 

Many people talk about time management, but then you can spend too much time looking at the clock, so here in the North Pole I prefer to use Focus. Concentrating on your highest priorities leaves less opportunity for your mind to stray, you get to accomplish what counts, achieve your goals and offers peace of mind. This then gives you the time to relax and enjoy yourself. 

And third is Teamwork.

Get the best people for the job, and in my case that includes reindeers. I always put Rudolf at the front of the sleigh because, as everybody now nose - get it? - he has navigation skills better than a Tom Tom, and I’ll partner him with Blitzen or Prancer, both of whom are excellent pace setters, using the right reindeers for the job will ensure that that job gets done.  Of course the elves all have their part to play and I can do what I do best safe in the knowledge that I have a small but excellent team around me. 

That reminds me, I must ask Mrs Clause if she’s booked the ho, ho, hotel for our new year break.

There are plenty of other things to bear in mind but part of my plan is to keep myself and my team focused on getting the job done, so I must get back to work and stay on schedule… only three more sleeps till Christmas Eve.

Oh, and if any part of this sounds vaguely familiar ask yourself, “Where did Steven R. Covey et al get their ideas from?”

Merry Christmas everybody.

SC.