From buying gifts to attending business-related social functions, there is plenty to keep you occupied over the holiday season. But even with all those last-minute errands and events, you still need to keep your business running.

“The key question is: How can you enjoy the holidays without sacrificing what’s important to you, your family and your business?” says Joshua Zuchter, a business and life coach in Toronto.

Follow these tips to stay focused on your business over the holidays:

1. Plan
The holidays come at the same time every year, so decide in advance how you will spend your time.

You may decide to close entirely during the holidays, to stay open for reduced hours or to work right through, says Zuchter. Your decision must be based on what you feel is best for you personally and for your business.

By now you should have made your decision, ensured your staff is on board and informed your clients so there are no misunderstandings about business hours.

Remember, the time-management principles that apply during the rest of the year also hold true during the holidays, Zuchter says. So, you need to focus on your priorities and allot time appropriately.

2. Look ahead
The holidays present a good opportunity to start thinking about your business plans for the coming year.

This time of year is generally a little slower for business, Zuchter says. It’s a perfect time to take a day and devote it to making plans and projections for the new year.

And don’t forget to think about your personal goals as well as your professional objectives.

3. Send greetings
Show your clients that you care by sending seasonal greetings to them.

Send an email or an e-card to clients, with a personal message, Zuchter says. A general message is OK, too, but a personalized message will show that you are thinking about that client individually.

4. Take time for yourself
With so many tasks, people and events to think of as another year draws to a close, it’s easy to forget important personal issues.

“The biggest mistake that people make during the holidays,” Zuchter says, “is not taking time for themselves.”

It may seem counter-intuitive, he says, but schedule some time to relax and have fun in the midst of all the holiday obligations and events. Taking this time to decompress will help your ability to focus later on when you do have to work.

5. Keep cool
Stay calm throughout the holiday season by being understanding toward others.

Everyone is a little more stressed during this time of year, Zuchter says, so be patient with others.