10 ways mums can do more each day

There is so much to adjust to when the new family member arrives. It seems there is never enough time to do all that we need to, not just for the bub but the rest of the family, oh and then there is your career! Here are a few tips we have found helpful, 10 ways mums can do more each day. Being organised is the key, of course, there will be days when it all goes out the window, and things don’t go to plan, that’s to be expected. Firstly knowing exactly what’s to be done to use your time wisely is a good place to start.

So those coffee dates with your girlfriends can still happen, you’ll find time to put on some makeup and get an outfit together. A go-to outfit will be something that doesn’t need an iron put to it, choose comfort and something accessible for bub if you are breastfeeding. Add accessories such as a scarf, which can also double up as a modesty cover.

It is no secret that the early bird gets the worm. Set an earlier wake-up time and stick to it. By starting the day earlier, you are making the most of those quiet, calmer morning hours and can really pack some tasks in.

If you have a newborn in the house you’ll find yourself getting up early, allowing you to be more productive enjoy it while it lasts as often chaos will reign and you’ll go from being ahead to just surviving. It can take about a year to get back into your old routine but make an effort to as you will accomplish more.

This can be an actual calendar, diary or checklist. On the page write the date as well as a few extra tasks you would like to accomplish that day, just in case you can find the time.

I love to keep a running to-do list. I use my phone and Gmail calendar for appointments and schedules, but I keep a paper copy of everything I need to do that day and I update it each night.  If you have just 10 minutes you can pick a task that fits into that time allotment.

Be mindful of each hour. If participating in an activity that you get easily lose track of time with, eg social media, set the alarm on your phone to let you know when the time is up and you need to move on to another activity.

Using a Timer can be a great practical way to keep yourself on track. Tell yourself to take 7 minutes and empty and reload the dishwasher, or put another load of laundry on. You will be surprised how much you can get done in just a few minutes.

Surround yourself with friends who like to make the most of their time as well. These are usually upbeat, positive, and driven people. Give encouragement to each other and be inspired by each other.

The other day one of my friends text me about putting dinner in the oven before going to the gym. I was reminded to do the same 🙂 It was such a relief that night when we got home and didn’t have to think about dinner, it great to have friends that encourage me to stay motivated and organised.

In the calendar or diary, check off tasks as they are finished. This is a great visual to show you what you have completed and what is still to be done. You will feel more accomplished by looking at the diary page and seeing everything crossed out.

Remember, If you’re a busy mum of little ones, sometimes it’s important to make sure everything you are doing is on your to-do list, not just big things. There have been days I included things like “Sweep Floor” or “Make Dinner” or “Take a Shower” on my to-do list because it helps me to feel like I have accomplished something rather than looking at a never-ending to-do list that isn’t getting done.

Utilise the reminder apps and digital calendars on your phone or computer to keep your tasks at your fingertips. This is much easier than fumbling with sticky notes.

Some of my favorite apps include Evernote (Which syncs with your computer and iPhone), Gmail Calendars (Sends me Text Message Reminders about appointments and sync’s with my other half’s calendar, which by the way, since introducing it to him I have been able to keep track of his whereabouts) and my Notes List on my iPhone. These three things help me to remember what needs to be done!

Don’t pack more into your day than is reasonable. When you do this, you are setting yourself up for failure. Instead, be realistic and set goals you can obtain.

I once heard it said that you can fit everything you need to do in a day on a sticky note! You can always make a new note if you get everything done, but keeping your list smaller and less overwhelming will help you not only accomplish more but also focus on your top priorities for the day. If your sticky note is full, you have enough to do 🙂 Have a go and see if you can accomplish something.

This helps you waste less time driving. When running errands use the GPS to plan your routes for you.

Take a few moments to reflect on the next day. Make a list of what you plan to tackle upon waking up. Then, prepare to start the process all over again!

Treat yourself to something maybe a manicure or coffee when you accomplish your goals, and of course as a result of getting more done in a day the best reward is finding some spare time for yourself. Rewarding yourself will help you stay motivated and also help you put those things off that are least important until you’ve accomplished your day.

Give these 10 ways to get more done each day a try! I would love to know what tips you have for getting more done! Don’t forget to leave a comment with your favourite tips and suggestions!