Christmas can feel like one never ending to do list; no matter how many times you cross something off, another two tasks get added on the end. When you’re shopping, travelling, trying to get your work finished or navigating childcare, getting organised can make a huge difference. Here are a few apps that might make December a little easier to manage.
To share the load of shopping: AnyList (free)
Do you feel like the load of Christmas is evenly distributed between you and your partner, roommate or family members, or is one person carrying everything themselves? When tasks aren’t shared, it can lead to confusion, frustration and resentments in relationships.
AnyList is a simple little app which allows you to create and share lists with others, so whether you’re shopping for Christmas dinner, presents for the kids or tree decorations, you don’t accidentally buy the same thing twice. Just make the list, share it with the people who need it, and whenever something is crossed off, everyone is informed. If you’re using it for Christmas dinner, you can even store and organise recipes in the app.
To keep track of what everyone is doing: Cozi (free)
As well as all of those tasks that need doing, your December might look like a long list of events. If you find yourself continually overwhelmed by the amount of nativity rehearsals, pantos and Christmas parties that you have to go to (or get the kids to), it’s time to ditch the paper calendar and use an app.
Cozi is a family organiser app that helps you manage appointments, events and tasks at a glance. Cozi tracks everyone’s activities in one place, so there’s no need to text to find out what someone else is doing. Each user can choose a colour to identify themselves, so you can see who is attending, or responsible for each appointment. You can also receive automatic notifications, and emails, so that everyone is always kept in the loop.
To remind you to take care of yourself: Finch (free)
It’s no surprise that for some people, Christmas can be a time when mental health can suffer. Not only is there a huge amount to prepare, get ready and purchase, the expectations that we can put on ourselves, or that others can put on us can feel like too much. Meeting our own needs, whatever that looks like, can often get put to the back as we try to manage the other demands on our time
Finch is a free self-care app that gamifies taking care of yourself; perfect for those of us who are neurodivergent and struggle to take care of our needs, as well as those who just need a little extra help when looking after themselves. Choose an egg, hatch a Finch, and give it a name. Then take care of your bird by picking some goals like drinking water, brushing your teeth, and stepping outside. Finch will notify you at certain times of the day to remind you to look after yourself, and your bird will grow when you do.
