Motherhood comes with its fair share of challenges. If not handled well, this phase can not only ruin relationships but compromise the quality of life for both mom and kids. Suddenly, there are so many things to attend to, which is overwhelming. After all, every mom wants to be the perfect mom.
With a plan, you can have everything under control by considering these time-saving tips as you enjoy the nurturing calling.
Identify Time Wasters
Are there meaningless things or activities that consume your precious time? In this time of technology, social media is most likely top on the list. TV and other gadgets follow close. Set a time that you will log in to your account and get updated on the ongoings. Stick to the time frame regardless of how tempting it is to linger on the sites. Learn to limit screen time and avoid the screen when going to bed.
Create Room And Space For Everything
Cleaning and clearing clutter is time-consuming. However, doing it daily is draining. You do not have to that, though. Ensure that you stipulate a place and provision for everything. While at it, make sure everyone knows where things should be.
For example, identify where to keep shoes, books, papers, dirty laundry, stationery, toys, among others. With a place for everything, you will reduce the time you spend on picking up after everyone. The house will stay neat and clean for longer when everyone is involved.
Create A To-Do List And Plan Beforehand
Waking up with no idea of what to do will make you waste time on less critical tasks. Lack of plan will also make you leave some crucial things undone. Before retiring to bed, take some time and plan for the next day.
Allocate time for everything and stick to it. If you plan to take the children to the play area for one hour, staying there for an extra hour will eat up into the time meant for something else. Planning also makes it possible for you to identify ways to save on time by attending to more than one thing at a time. You may plan for getting the groceries, or weekly shopping on your way to or from the play area.
Have a meal plan as well. This will help you know what you need in advance hence save you from last-minute rush to the store, saving money and time. Proper preparations beforehand help you accomplish much in less time. With established routines, you spend less time trying to figure out what to do next.
Shop Weekly
With a good plan, you can have a shopping day for groceries and other things that you may need for the week. Consider your children routines while doing this. If there is someone to mind the kids as you go shopping, the better for you. Trying to find something in a store is not fun with a cranky kid on tow. Also, take advantage of some alone time to recharge.
If you hate going out from store to store, take advantage of the technology and online services. Never go shopping without a list at hand. To make things easier, have a book where you list an item once you get the last piece. There are coupons apps that you can download on your phone to help in saving money as you will get to know about discounts, sales, and codes near you. With a little invested time in planning and some basic couponing advice, you’ll be equipped to save time and money.
Assign Duties And Ask For Help
One of the most dangerous things that many women do is trying to play the ‘supermom.’ Assign family members appropriate roles and ensure everyone knows what is expected from them. Small children can pick up the toys once they finish playing – it helps to have a designated play area, dads can help with loading the washing machine, and teens can help prepare meals. Let every family member know how they can make things easier in small ways, like turning clothes right when changing.
Your success as a mother is not measured by how many things you can do. Relax and use an extra hand or two. After all, it is fulfilling when you know that you have raised responsible individuals.
Have Some Alone Time
Running around taking care of everyone else is not only tiring but unhealthy too. Develop a habit of taking some ‘me’ time and do something different. You can decide to hang out with friends, go for a massage, or pedicure, watch your favorite shows, or any other thing you find interesting.
Stepping away from the responsibilities and ‘noise’ once in a while helps you recharge and develop a clear focus. After all, there is life besides motherhood.
In this era of technology, take advantage of apps to do things that you would earlier attend in person. Paying bills and online shopping are perfect examples of saving time through technology, make use of them wherever possible and reclaim your precious time.
