by Carmen Manske

Created on: August 08, 2008   Last Updated: January 05, 2012

Running short on time?  It seems most of us are.  There used to be a time when dishwashers and microwaves were new.  People speculated as to what they would do with all their time once they had them.  Seems we're not taking full advantage of these time-saving "futuristic" devices.

Start off your day the right way by getting a good night's sleep. It's best to get at least 8 hours of sleep.  Jumpstart your morning routine by eating a healthy breakfast.  Eating healthy foods can keep you from feeling sluggish, which often makes you waste time.

When you make meals, make larger quantities than you normally would. Then you have some for leftovers (such as leftover chicken can be used for sandwiches), or you can freeze leftovers and then they are already prepared, and can be popped into the microwave or oven.

While cooking, clean up as you go.  Put away things after you use them.  Rinse pans so it doesn't dry on when it comes time to do the dishes.  Ideally, you should always be in the habit of emptying the dishwasher as soon as your things are cleaned, so when you dirty things, they have someplace to go, rather than piling up in the sink.

Do laundry as soon as you have one load in your basket to be done.  Don't let it overflow.  By doing one load at a  time, you're more likely to put it all away as soon as possible.  Mountains of laundry are never fun.

It's a good idea to make a list for the day of things you must get done, and things you would like to do for fun. Then it seems like you are more able to accomplish everything, and that you are making the most of your time. Don't make a list for the whole week or it can be overwhelming.  But remember, work first, play later.  It's much easier to enjoy yourself when you don't feel guilty for not completing your work.

Make sure you write down the things you need on a shopping list. Put it in a place where everyone can find it, like on the fridge. Everyone can write down what they need instead of later complaining they don't have something and then you have to run to the store. It saves on gas to be organized and to have specific times you go to the store.  I find I save a lot of time if I don't have to go shopping almost every day.  I try to grocery shop once every two weeks.  It's amazing what you can find for dinner in your own house, instead of running out to the store for ingredients.

Use your time wisely. Consciously decide what needs to be done that day, and do not waste time sitting around watching TV for no apparent reason. Don't waste time checking your email or Facebook every half hour. Do things that need to be done and do things you don't always think about, like talking to your children, and enjoying your life. It's okay to sit down and read or go for a walk. Don't fret about a little mess when you could be having a good time with your family. Find out where exactly you waste time, and decide to change. Be thankful for every day you're alive, and at the end of the day always feel like you've made the most out of every minute.

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