It is important to make the most of your time and energy, but many of us take the long road to accomplish our work, when it turns out there was a short cut all along. Wouldn't you love to lower your stress and add "free" time to your day? Here are a few tips you might try to accomplish your routine work more easily.
? Create a communication center on the fridge for messages, chores etc. Add a cartoon now and then to add a smile to your day!
? Make a master calendar for scheduling family commitments. Use a different color for each family member.
? Create a checklist for groceries arranged in the order of your grocery store aisles posted where family members can add items as you run out.
? Sort recipes in categories that make sense to you ? "potluck ideas" or "company ideas."
? Keep related items together, for example the coffee filters and coffee "live" above or near the coffee maker.
? Designate every location or container for a specific purpose -- a drawer for tools, a shelf for single size linens, or an attractive wastebasket for umbrellas.
? Keep cleaning supplies in a bucket other plastic container for easy portability.
? Identify a specific place to put car keys, gloves, umbrellas etc., for quick access when you leave the house.
? Use an answering machine or service to control calls. Return calls at your convenience. Keep a notebook by the phone for messages. Identify messages for family members with initials.
? Teach your children to use an alarm clock or clock radio.
? Choose clothing and accessories and pack lunches the night before.
? Start a child's file system with a simple container, basket, file or shelf. It may contain information about their medical records, medicines, education, extra curricular activities, memorabilia, etc.
? Run errands at non-rush hour times if possible. Keep stops sequential to avoid driving in circles. Take one child along for one-on-one time and stop for ice cream or a look at the petstore.
? When opening your incoming e-mail, apply The FAT System? (File-Act-Toss). Sort actions requiring action by category such as "Call," "Discuss" or "Pay."
? Attach the old message when replying to an e-mail to help the recipient remember its original content.
? Keep your filing system simple. Don't create too many categories, it's better to put information into the largest general category first, and break it down when it becomes too bulky.
? Finish one task at a time. Distractions will leave you with a lot of chores that are half way done.
? Practice the Art of Wastebasketry?. Ask yourself, "What's the worst possible thing that would happen if I didn't have this? If you can live with your answer, toss it ? and live happily ever after!
Your daily routine will take time. And don't beat yourself up if you can't get it all done. But remember, a little organization can go a long way. Often it's a simple change that makes a big difference. You may find your self saying "why didn't I think of that before?" You can contemplate that thought at the end of the day, while you relax in a lounge chair, enjoying your free time.
? Barbara Hemphill is the author of Kiplinger's Taming the Paper Tiger at Work and Taming the Paper Tiger at Home and co-author of Love It or Lose It: Living Clutter-Free Forever. The mission of Hemphill Productivity Institute is to help individuals and organizations create and sustain a productive environment so they can accomplish their work and enjoy their lives. We do this by organizing space, information, and time. We can be reached at 800-427-0237 or at <a target="_new" href="http://www.ProductiveEnvironment.com">www.ProductiveEnvironment.com</a>
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