7 Effective Time Management Tips for Working Moms
Being a mom is one of the most amazing experiences in life. But I’d be lying if I told you that it’s as serene and relaxing all the time too. Having to work while taking care of a baby or toddler means a lot of changes in the usual routine. And chances are one could have that constant struggle with time management.
Visibly, time management is a big concern for working mothers. A lot can be on your plate and it seems like working on each of the tasks one by one is so much harder than it really looks. Trust me, I know how that feels.
But, of course, being in a new zone doesn’t have to be as stressful as it is. And you can still find time for yourself while getting everything done at the same time.
Here’s a list of time management tips that you can use anywhere to take that stress out. Create more fun time with your kids, enjoy quality time with your partner and even get that serene and relaxing ‘me time’.
1. Ask for Help
Tasks can be very overwhelming and it’s sometimes impossible for one person to do it all. Yes, it’s tempting to do all household chores and baby tasks all by yourself. But with all the work in hand, letting your partner, friends or relatives take one small burden at a time can really be of great help. Consider delegating tasks, or bartering with other moms with errands and babysitting. Accept a helping hand especially when you are running short on time and energy. So, if people offer some help, just say yes!
2. Prioritize
The key to effective time management is setting your priorities straight. Whether it’s getting your baby in a bath, or getting the dishes done. You should know what’s your top priority and what can wait. You can do this by dividing your to-do list into sections like what should be done first, things to do during the day, and those that can get done throughout the week.
3. Multitask
Yes, getting twice as much done in a day is a perfect recipe for a job well done! And what could be more exciting than scratching those tasks one by one out of the list? Do two things at once and complete tasks by pairing mindless tasks with focus-dependent ones. For example, you can take voice calls while taking a walk, or talk with your baby while you clean the kitchen. Just make sure you don’t feel harried and if multitasking gets a bit harder than it was, you can always shelve it for a bit.
4. Be Organized
The most important tip is always simply being organized. It can help eliminate stress and get more things done. Basically, being organized with your schedule, house, and system. Write a chore list. Keep a file cabinet for papers. Get a planner. Schedule events on the calendar and write smaller details in the weekly overview. This may seem a lot and automated, but having an organized system in place makes it far easier to see what can be done. And you don’t have to worry about getting crammed with plans and tasks.
5. Be Flexible
But of course, while it’s important to schedule and get organized, it doesn’t mean that you have to stick with what’s on paper at all times. You should also keep things flexible enough to accommodate unexpected things like sick days, interrupted sleep schedule, and more. Having a backup plan can help take the stress away and keep your schedule intact and ongoing.
6. Work Smarter
Remember to find the shortest route and easiest way of getting things done. If you can get canned sauce or pre-make meals, do it. Or if you can afford meal prep delivery, even better. What matters is getting the job done in as little time as possible for other things. Working smarter, not harder matters.
7. Get some ‘me’ time
Lastly, exhaustion doesn’t have to be your frenemy. And you can’t just leave yourself on the last of the priority list. Self-care is very important for physical and emotional health. Exhaustion and lack of food or nutrition can lead you to waste time and be less productive. Getting quality ‘me’ time, sleep, and a healthy meal should also be a priority.
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