10 Easy ways to make more time for you

Jul 19, 2010 11:32 AM by Kristin Chessman

Posted in Living / Career, Money & Time Management / Time Management

It’S All About You

Moms wear many hats, from those of chef, tutor and chauffeur to peacemaker, problem solver to miracle worker. Somehow, we find a way to do it all. But when’s the last time you did something for yourself? According to Lori Krolik, founder of More Time For You, finding time for yourself is all about organization and time management. Her Palo Alto, California-based company has helped clients declutter their lives, steamline their business practices and increase their bottom lines by adopting the organizing strategies she's taught them. She shares some below.

Woman with to do list

Afraid you simply don't have the time to put a new plan into action? Krolik says that putting in the extra effort now will be worth it in the long run. Here are some of her top tips for time management:

Create a clutter-free environment.

"Eliminate clutter from your home, office and car. Give everything a home and learn to love clean counters," advises Krolik. "Significant amounts of time and energy are lost if dishes, mail, papers and clutter are not dealt with or neatly put away."

Practice uni-tasking.

Most of us strive to be multitaskers, but, according to Krolik, that may not be the most effective method of time management. "Contrary to popular opinion, multitasking doesn't make you more productive or efficient. Instead, focus on one task at a time. Rather than glancing at your email while trying to complete your monthly report, create scheduled breaks for checking and processing email."

Reduce incoming paper.

"Save yourself time and frustration by reducing incoming paper. Remove yourself from magazine and catalog subscriptions, junk mail lists and other member lists that you don't use," Krolik says.

Create a complete to-do list.

Get it on paper. Krolik suggests making a handwritten list or using a computerized format such as Microsoft Outlook's task list. "Either way, be sure to include everything from the most mundane to the more complex. Check your list daily, and you'll be amazed what you accomplish."

Make and keep appointments with yourself.

We make appointments for the dentist, a haircut and even dinner. So why not set aside time for accomplishing tasks? "Use a timer to help keep you on track and provide a natural break for when to stop," advises Krolik.

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