Shira threw a towel over her shoulder and leaned back against the counter to survey the damage. The kitchen table was piled high with torn cellophane and mishloach manos rejects; the counter was covered with platters of leftover food; the sink was filled with a towering stack of dishes.

As she began to tackle the overflowing garbage bags and assorted glass bottles Shira reflected on the day. It had passed in a blur of chaos confections and cap guns. But she had packed in everything essential: hearing megillah delivering mishloach manos eating a seudah and giving matanos l’evyonim. Compared to last year it had been a well-executed operation. With the exception of some minor mishaps involving costumes and candy squabbles the kids had enjoyed the day. She was drained but it was worth the effort to make sure that Purim was a fun Yom Tov for everyone.

But Shira mused it didn’t really feel like a Yom Tov. That post-op feeling that “something spiritual” had transpired was definitely missing.

Most of us can empathize. There are so many activities and time-sensitive mitzvos on Purim that it can make the day feel like a race to the finish line.

The truth is you do have to perform a juggling act to get everything done. But you can end the day with a sense of personal meaning and fulfillment if you re-prioritize what you have to juggle. It just takes a little forethought. Here are some simple ways to make your Purim more meaningful:

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