Simple Time Management

Mom’s are generally natural time managers – hence the term Mom Management™! However we are always in need of a few new ideas and some pieces of advice. Before reading the ideas there are a couple of things I want to make sure we as Mom Managers realize.

First, it takes 21- 30 days to form a new habit (or get rid of an old one). So if something isn’t working after a few days or weeks, stick with it. Habits form over time and eventually are second nature. If you give up too soon, you will just be frustrated. If you miss a day or forget to do something for a few don’t quit, just pick up and keep going.

Second, keep changes simple. We often get so many great ideas at once and want to try them. Change is very difficult and too many changes are impossible. Rather than implementing all 10 ideas at once, try one until it becomes a habit and then try another. If there are big things going on in your life, then don’t make big changes. For example, December is not the best time to try anything new, start a house project, or commit to something huge. January on the other hand is a great time to make a small change.

Finally, be very realistic about your life before you decide to make changes. Once we become aware of our time and really look at where it is going, we often realize we are pretty happy with our lives. Don’t allow yourself to compare yourself to others as you only see their good sides (just as you only show them yours!) The average American has the TV on for 9 hours a day and watches for 6 hours. I like to say there is nothing wrong with watching TV if you do not complain that you don’t have enough time to get things done!

• Stop, Look & Listen™ - Become aware of your time and learn to be thankful for it
  
  
• Plan - everyday for about 10 minutes using one planning tool (calendar, PDA, day timer)
  
  
• Be Effective (doing the right job) first and then Efficient (doing the job right)
  
  
• Turn To Do Lists into Priority Lists
  
  
• Focus on tasks, people, yourself – work at a clear space, no phone/email, isolate yourself
  
  
• Multi-task when necessary but be careful of it turning into Hyper-tasking (doing so much at once that you lose productivity)
  
  
• Delegate what you can – to family, staff, or Hire in/out
  
  
• Avoid Procrastination by figuring out why you are doing it
  
  
• Eliminate Clutter – both physical and mental
  
  
• Avoid Time Wasters while staying aware of enjoying time

I truly believe that we all have enough time in our lives, and that our habits and beliefs are what limit us. People feel that it is almost a status symbol to be time starved and love to discuss how little time they have. I have been in many conversations where the person complaining would have finished what they were complaining about if they just did it.

Time is a Gift

Be Thankful for it

Treasure it

Tracy Lyn Moland is the mother of two and wife of an Ironman. She is a regular corporate spokesperson, media guest, and freelance writer. For more tips and ideas, check out her new website http://www.tipsEmoms.com or visit http://www.FindBalance.ca