I know almost every mom I talk to feels like they just never get caught up. The continuing guilt is enough to make anyone grumpy, but especially moms. We are usually the hardest ones on ourselves and never cut ourselves any slack.
So as I sit at a pivotal point trying to restructure my days and priorities due to a “surprise” (which I will share more about as soon as I can) that came today, I thought I would share some of the points I am pondering about how I will still complete necessary tasks and fit in some of the optional ones too!
- Delegate
What can you delegate? I am looking at the tasks that I do for my family, my home and my business and seeing what I can give to someone else to do. This is extremely hard for me, as I like to do it all! But I have to realize, and especially realize with my husbands nudging, that I will not be able to do it all and everyone will suffer, especially me. Have I ever mentioned he is a wise man? I will be asking for more help with ordinary things and hopefully that will ease up my time. Online grocery shopping is one of my favorite delegations.
- Cut Out
What can you completely cut out of your day? I know for me there are tasks and really frivolous ways that I end up spending my time that I just need to be more aware of, sometimes called time drains. These are such things as TV, internet, or chatting endlessly on the phone. For me, I don’t watch much TV or sit chatting on the phone, but the internet is truly one of my best friends. So I have decided to really try to set only certain times to be on the computer, checking email and responding. I will also be limiting my social network interaction for a period of time while I am in transition. This is a must. What areas do you find that you can effortlessly waste time? I know you have some!
- Lower Your Standards
This pertains to how clean I would like to keep my home. I am rather obsessed at times with making sure my home is clean or orderly, but I realize this takes me away from other much more important tasks or relationships. So I am having to look at areas I can lower my standards so that I can relax more and enjoy my “surprise.” Do I have to vacuum nearly everyday, well, not really. Where else can I change my expectations in order to free up some time?
So, just a few tips and ideas that came to mind as I re-evaluate how I can find more time in my day for what really matters right now. There really is enough time in the day, I just seem to find ways to completely lose minutes, over and over again. The key I see is to eliminate the things that truly don’t matter.
{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
This is such a great post, especially for those feeling a little burned out.
Delegation has done wonders for me. My kids help with so much more than they used to. I think as a mom, sometimes you get in such a routine that you don’t even realize there might be extra hands that are now old enough to help and take on more tasks.
My standards are lower, especially since the kids are doing more. However, I found it helps if I stay ‘involved’ with their help. For instance, the kids all bring in the groceries and put them away. I am still around to help make sure things stay somewhat organized, but grocery shopping is definitely not the chore it used to be.
Of well 1st of all, I hope you don’t keep daily followers waiting too long to learn about your ‘surprise’ cuz I hate waiting, lol.
As of last night, we have two additional 16 year olds in the house, 16 year old girls. They have really curbbed my comupter useage. I have noticed that I have more time on my hands just simply from not being able to be on the computer all day. This is a good thing since the kids just got out of school, I am finding I am doing more with them, it is great.
I agree with Everday tips, utilizing the people around you who are now getting old enough to help with other things.
Just yesterday I helped my 11 year old daughter learn how to mow the backyard. Sure, this took a bit longer than just going out and doing it myself but the look on her face of the sense of accomplishment was priceless and although I was exhausted I was so happy we took the time to do that. Now she can’t yet do it by herself but I bet it won’t be long now.
I think having the kids help out is the biggest resource we parents of today do not use. And we wonder why our children have that huge sense of entitlement that we certainly did not have, at least not the the extent that I believe kids in general have today.
This summer I also plan on my 11 year old learning to do her own laundry and having my 7½ year old pick up a few more skills as well.
Thanks for your added comments! I love the ideas you all bring together to share and help other moms. Don’t worry, the secret will be shared soon!
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