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The holidays have a way of sneaking up on us. One minute you’re juggling back-to-back appointments, and the next you’re trying to figure out how to fit in family time, shopping, and maybe even a little rest.
If you’re a notary in Canada or the U.S., this season can feel especially unpredictable. Some days are packed. Others are quiet. And the responsibility to keep your business moving forward while still enjoying your life can feel like a lot.
The good news is that you don’t need a complicated plan. You just need a realistic strategy that supports your workload, your time and your wellbeing. Let’s walk through how to make the most of this season without burning yourself out.
Know What Season You’re In
Your business doesn’t operate the same in January as it does in December. This time of year can bring a mix of slower periods and last-minute signings. RON appointments may increase because clients want things handled quickly. Estate planning documents might pick up because families are gathering and resolving paperwork. Some signing services may even push for tighter deadlines.
This is why it helps to be honest about your current workload. Look back at last December. What patterns did you notice? What appointments were you doing the most? The more you understand your seasonal flow, the easier it becomes to plan around it instead of fighting against it.
Protect Your Time Before Your Calendar Fills Up
You are allowed to set boundaries. In fact, the busier you are, the more important they become. It’s okay to block off certain days for family events or rest. It’s okay to limit late-night appointments. It’s okay to communicate holiday availability early so clients know exactly what to expect.
A simple approach is to create a holiday hours announcement that you can share on your website, Google Business Profile, or social media. This reduces the back-and-forth with clients and gives you the space to plan your month with clarity.
Prepare for Last-Minute Signings Without Losing Your Peace
Last-minute requests can be stressful, but they don’t have to throw your whole day off. One of the best things you can do is prepare your essentials ahead of time. This includes keeping your printer stocked, your scanner ready, and your notary bag fully equipped.
A few simple habits that make a big difference:
• Restock your journals and pens before December hits.
• Keep extra acknowledgment and jurat certificates on hand.
• Maintain full toner cartridges.
• Save a “ready to go” bag in your car for mobile appointments.
These little systems give you stability even when the schedule gets unpredictable.
Create a Simple Holiday Business Plan
Think of this as your personal roadmap for December. It doesn’t need to be long. It just needs to support your priorities.
Here are a few things to decide in advance.
Your holiday working hours
Your daily appointment limits
The types of services you want to focus on
The income goal you want to reach
What days you’re unavailable
This plan keeps you grounded when everything around you starts to speed up. It helps you make clear decisions instead of reactive ones.
Keep Marketing Even When It’s Busy
This doesn’t mean posting every day. It means showing up consistently in a way that doesn’t drain you. Even one helpful post a week keeps you visible. This is also a great time to schedule automated posts so you don’t have to think about it during family time.
You can share simple content like:
• Holiday hours
• Last-minute mobile availability
• Tips for clients on preparing documents
• Estate planning reminders
• How RON can save time during the holidays
These are easy for clients to understand and they position you as someone who is reliable even during a hectic season.
Prepare Your Business for the New Year
December is a perfect time to tie up loose ends. When things slow down, use that time to organize your systems. Clean up your digital files. Update your notary journal. Refresh your Google Business Profile. Review your pricing. Reflect on what you want your business to look like in January.
Every hour you invest now pays you back tenfold in the new year.
Give Yourself Permission to Enjoy the Season
It’s okay to slow down. It’s okay to rest. It’s okay to spend time with family and still run a successful business. You’re not falling behind. You’re building something sustainable.
Your clients will respect your boundaries when you communicate them clearly and confidently. The goal is not to power through the holidays but to move through them with balance and intention.
Ready to Enter the New Year With More Confidence and Clarity?
If you want support, strategy, and community as you grow your notary business, The Notary Business Blueprint is the perfect place to start. Join us to learn real systems, get mentorship, and build the business you’ve been working toward.
Join The Notary Blueprint® Community today and step confidently into the new year!
