Each year as the holidays approach (and it feels earlier and earlier every year — I saw Christmas stuff out in September this year!), the pace quickens. Clients are in a hurry (there’s shopping to be done and parties to get ready for), which often leaves you feeling frazzled and rushed. If there ever was time for a leisurely lunch, this is not it because you’re squeezing clients into every available time slot. I know the feeling.

Every Christmas, I fly back east to see my family. In the weeks leading up to my trip, I usually don’t have a second to breathe. I work longer hours to make sure I don’t leave anything undone at the office. After work and on the weekends, I rush around trying to find that perfect present for every single person on my list. And I usually have an assortment of parties to attend. By the time I sit down on the plane, I’m completely exhausted and ready for a rest.

If you’re like many nail techs I know, you are in high demand from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Eve. It’s your job to make sure your clients’ nails are perfect for all the holiday parties. But what about you? Who’s making sure your nails are perfect? More important, who’s making sure you stay sane at this crazy time of year? In addition to attending to your job, you’ve got to find the time to do your own shopping, get ready for your own parties, and spend time with your family.

That’s a tall order, and not an easy balancing act. As crazy as the holidays are, I make time to see friends at holiday gatherings and I relish the time I spend with my family. As we’re entering this holiday season, I hope you all take a minute to appreciate everything that is important. And realize that even though our economy is far from stable, we’ve got a lot to be thankful for. Sometimes all we need to do is pause to reflect on what matters most — our health, our loved ones, our freedom — and don’t forget to breathe.

The NAILS team would like to wish you and yours a very happy holiday season and the hope for a prosperous new year! See you all in 2009!

— Hannah