Strategies for Getting Organized

Reduce the stress of hosting Thanksgiving by ordering the meal from a local grocery store or restaurant. Another alternative is to assign responsibility so guests bring the food. Avoid problems by using a checklist and ordering food several weeks in advance. Take time during the meal to encourage guests to talk about why they give thanks. See below for resources to help plan a Thanksgiving Dinner. Articles Putting "Thanks" and "Giving" Back in Thanksgiving Thanksgiving Takeout Options from Restaurants and Grocery Stores Guide to Hosting for the First Time   Books Family Dinner Playbook Hosting a Dinner Party Mastering Thanksgiving   Checklists Thanksgiving Planning Checklist

Political activity enables us to discharge our civic duty and advance causes they support. Below are tips for staying politically active and resources for implementing them.     Tips   Encourage Others  - rally family and friends to vote. Influence Outcomes  - influence outcomes by voting for candidates that support your causes.  Investigate Candidates  - research voting records of candidates and their truthfulness. Participate  - consider volunteering to help candidates to win election.  Register  - confirm your voter registration and calendar for renewal. Stay Informed  - read local and national publications to determine candidate positions.  Vote Early  - avoid long lines by voting early or balloting by mail.   Articles Kelsey Alpaio,   How to Respond When Someone Says I'm Not Voting , Harvard Business Review, Oct. 28, 2020. Dena Bunis,   Six Ways to Check Out a Candidate , AARP, Apr. 30, 2018. Kayleigh Lickliter,  How To Look Up A Politician’s Voting Record And Job Performance

About 40% of American retirees downsize or move after retirement. Some retirees opt to relocate to a new community and others decide to age in place. Below are things to consider when choosing a home for retirement and resources to help make the best choice. Tips Alternatives  – consider changing lifestyle, downsizing to a condominium, or living with family. Benefits  - moving provides opportunities for improving health, lifestyle, and happiness. Communities  - choices include active adult, assisted living, life plan (also known as continuing care retirement), and lifestyle communities (e.g., beach and golf communities). Cost  - consider financial and psychological expenses of moving; rent before buying to reduce risks. Dwelling  - varieties  include apartments, cabins, condominiums, garden homes, mobile homes, and townhomes. Family  - explore alternatives with family members to achieve consensus.   Health  - plan for the go-go years, the slow-go years, and the no-go years. Purpose  -

Below are recommendations for reducing parental pressure and raising happier kids. For more tips, read articles about  raising kids  and keeping them happy .  Also read Jennifer Brehenny's book about avoiding  problems experienced by over achieving kids. Tip Delight    - Lighten up when your child enters the room to show that their presence delights. Chores   - insist that your child complete chores because it makes them feel that they matter at home. Family   - organize low-stress family activities to promote healthier balances between work and play. Grades   - don't emphasize top grades in every subject to avoid pressuring your child. Outdoors -   promote outdoor activities like camping, hiking, etc.