24 hours just doesn’t seem like enough time to get everything accomplished when you are trying to juggle children, work, home and making time for yourself – if you’re a working parent its an even greater challenge.

We have found that many schedules don’t have room for wasted time.  Personally, I try my best to streamline my own life and maximize my efficiency.  As mother of an active 6-year old boy and a social 8-year old girl, I am offering these tips to help you gain a few extra hours for activities that are important to you.

1. Delegate, delegate, delegate – You can’t and don’t have to do it all. Recognizing that fact will not only give others the opportunity to showcase their abilities but will allow you to focus on the things that require your time and presence. Delegating to the right people can relieve you of some pressure and free up some extra time.

2. Hire out – If you have a particular chore you hate to do, you tend to procrastinate which ultimately wastes your time. Contract out for those chores, if your budget permits. For instance, if house cleaning is your least favorite chore, it might be worth it to pay someone else to do it? It would free up valuable time and relieve you of the responsibility.

3. Set the timer – You can still get the job accomplished yourself if your budget doesn’t permit. Set the timer for 15 minutes each evening and have everyone pitch in. If you take just 15 minutes each night whether it’s cleaning a room, sorting clothes or vacuuming a floor, you will be surprised what you can accomplish by the end of the week.

4. Play catch up – Carry a “catch up” folder with you wherever you go. Your catch up folder can include items like notes for scheduling appointments, children’s school work to be reviewed, and cards for all occasions. While you are waiting for the oil to be changed or to be called at your next doctor’s appointment you can convert dead time into productive time.

5. Cut out – Identify all of the committees, associations or groups you belong to and determine if the time and effort you put into each organization is beneficial to you – personally or professionally. Don’t allow guilt to sway your decision. Be as objective as possible by asking yourself if you are receiving satisfaction or gain out of these organizations and reconsider your involvement.

By making a few small changes you can find extra pockets of time to help you keep focus on the important things in your life says Gray-Johnson.

“Children grow up so quickly, it’s important to enjoy the moments as they come.”

Visit http://www.messless.net for more information on streamlining and increasing your productivity or call 804-399-6377 for your free telephone consultation today.