Even though things are much more convenient, it often feels like there is still not enough time to get everything done. As moms we wear so many hats and okay various roles, time is one thing we have very little of. After having Izaiah I quickly let go of my need to do it all (most days), because I didn't want to spend time cleaning up, cooking, and running errands. If I have the time, I want to give as much of it to what I want to do.
Order your groceries: My great friend told me to use Instacart right after Izaiah was born. I will be honest I felt guilty not physically going to get our groceries. But let me tell you – DO NOT BELIEVE THAT LIE! There are only so many hours in a day. It's a far better use of time to order and have them delivered or for you to pick them up. Trying to wrangle all my kids and bribe them so we can pick up food items. No more, most weeks.
Meal planning: I'm not the best at meal planning, but in our house we have a meal calendar that I've started utilizing, not just keeping as decoration ha. When you meal plan it saves time and also gives you the ability to switch things up or order in when it doesn't work out. Since I've used our meal plan way more, I've found some amazing recipes to try. And they're really good! Using Pinterest is a life saver, seriously you'll thank me later.
Say No: For every yes to something, you say no to something else. Those words have stuck with me for a few years now. Truth is you can't say yes to everything. I've tried and failed miserably. I'm not perfect at it, however, I am way better. Saying no for me looks like a quick series of questions: Do I have the time? Will this overwhelm me? Will this help me with another goal or task? If I can't confidently answer all 3 then it's a no. Find your method so people don't decide for YOU how to use your time.
Accomplish 3 Things: If you're not a list maker, you may want to start that habit. Even if it's on a post-it note, write it down. Being busy and trying to accomplish a lot doesn't always mean that's the best use of your time. Or if you're like me, I end up sitting in a pile of too much to do. Finding my top 3 things to accomplish each day moves my time along, and helps me find a good stopping place when needed. Your magic number may be 5, whatever it is, find it and write your list!
Plan Ahead: If you're not a planner, that really is okay. I recently shared that it wasn't until I became a mom that I had to plan. Mom reality: everyone was looking to me for THE plan. I used to really dislike planning. I felt like it took away from the spontaneity of life. Today, I realize good plans give me back my time. They let me know what is going on and how much time I need to allot to things. So plan away friend, it's a major time saver.
Do you have any tips and tricks of your own to reclaim your time? I always enjoy learning something new that can help me spend more time doing things I love!
Excellent tips. Saying "no" sometimes gives others the opportunity to share their gifts. We can't do everything and there are times when an opportunity isn't for us and it's okay to say "no". Have a blessed week!