Where did the time go? As a mom, you’ve asked yourself this question more times than you remember, especially if you have young children. Your day begins when you drag yourself out of bed before dawn, still exhausted from yesterday’s chores. Then it ends late at night when you collapse back into bed, more exhausted.
In between, the day is a flash of chores, kids, work, errands, a spouse or night school. Yet despite this much slaving, you feel you accomplish little and even wish your day had an extra hour or two. Want to know something?
You can redeem a few hours with the following tips.
Get Family Members to Help.
Are you a perfectionist, who believes that only you can do a chore well? No wonder you’re always tired. Why be the only one to fold the clothes, set the table, dress the youngest child, or vacuum the carpet? Have the rest of the family chip in.
Choose Outfits in Advance.
During the weekend, let the kids choose outfits for the following week. This accomplishes two things. One, they get more freedom over how they dress. And two, they give you less trouble in the mornings because they chose the outfits.
Order Groceries Online
Don’t waste both time and money by leaving the house to shop for groceries. Shop online and have them delivered to your doorstep instead. And while waiting for the delivery, finish an extra chore or two.
Do One Task at a Time.
Like most moms, you probably take pride in your ability to multitask. Unfortunately, multi-tasking never works. Every time you switch tasks, your mind takes 30 minutes to adjust, meaning you lose time instead of gaining it. The solution: Complete a task before moving on to the next.
Use One Planner
How do you plan your day? Do you use a wall calendar, a mobile app, and maybe a computer program – each with its own information? That’s why you lose track of information. Remember, one detailed planner is all you need, so do get rid of the app and the program, but keep the large wall calendar in the kitchen.
Cook Larger Portions
When you have time to spare, cook larger portions than usual, twice as much if possible. Store the other portion in the fridge or freezer. When you’re pressed for time later in the week, fall back on the surplus food and cook supper in less time.
Do the Laundry Less Often.
Do you have young children? Then you do laundry every day. Is this necessary? No, it isn’t. This habit needlessly increases your workload and utility bill. What’s the alternative? Do laundry two or three times a week.
Organize the Kitchen.
According to momfabulous.com, an organized kitchen calms your life and your home more appealing. Fortunately, this is a straightforward thing to do. Simply label jars, declutter cabinets and install more drawers.
Learn to Say No.
A neighbor may desire to have their child tutored for an hour. Likewise, a friend may lack the time to pick their son from school. Or, a relative may require a temporary babysitter. Therefore, they turn to you for help, but you’re pressed for time. Should you consent? Don’t, even if this displeases them.
Juggling chores, careers, and a family leaves mothers feeling exhausted and unaccomplished. This shouldn’t apply to you. Despite your demanding schedule, stay ahead of things with the tips listed above. You can have an hour or two to yourself each day.