Never seem to have enough time? I’ve put together this list of 25 genius time saving tips for working moms to help you streamline your busy schedule and get more done in less time.
As a working mom, life can be a juggling act and time can seem to slip between your fingers like sand.
If we’re being honest, we would agree that we could all do with a couple extra hours every week.
Between the demands of your career, keeping up with your home life, trying to be a present mom, and putting out all the fires that come up on a daily basis, there never seems to be enough time to do the things we ACTUALLY want to do.
If we just had a few more hours, life could be easier… right?
The bad news, as you’re aware, is that we can’t magically create more time. The good news is that we can create more space in our schedule by following some time saving hacks.
Working moms know that every second counts in their busy lives. That’s why finding time saving hacks can be a game changer.
By incorporating these time saving tips for working moms into your routine, you’ll be able to tackle your to-do list with ease and find more time for the things you love.
In this blog post, I’ll share 25 genius time saving tips to help busy working moms reclaim precious time, making it easier to balance work, family, and self-care. Get ready to maximize your productivity and enjoy a little extra breathing room in your schedule.
These genius time saving tips have helped me to save up to 10 hours each week.
While not every one of these time saving strategies will suit your lifestyle or budget, it’s important to be open to the possibility. Give yourself permission to try the various strategies to find one that works for you.
Can You Really Save 10 Hours?
You’re likely a little skeptical, wondering if it’s possible to save a whopping 10 hours in your already jam-packed schedule.
While this can seem like an ambitious goal, it’s absolutely within reach. In fact, if you apply the time saving tips that i’ll share with you, you can save even more than 10 hours.
It’s all about optimizing the time that you already have.
You can do this by first reflecting on what you’re currently doing with your time.
We are all given 168 hours each week. How are you currently spending yours?
Start By Tracking Your Time
Before we get into the tips, it’s important to take stock of how you’re spending your time by creating a time journal.
Much like a food journal, a time journal helps you to track your time so that you can make note of where you currently spend your time.
Track your time in as much detail as you can for one week. The more data you have to work with, the better.
Use a spreadsheet to track the time by the hour or by 30 minutes. Write down what you were doing during the time period.
This is an opportunity for you to simply observe without judgment. Don’t beat yourself up if you’re spending time on things that you know you shouldn’t. Instead, make note of what you’re spending time on and look for areas of opportunity.
Once you’ve accounted for your time, here are some things that you can start doing to save time as a busy mom and get back hours in your week.
Time Saving Tips For Busy Moms
Get Organized with a Schedule
As a working mom, time management can be a real challenge. However, a little bit of planning and organization can help you free up more time for the things that matter most. Here are some practical tips to help you get organized with a schedule:
- Use a Planner or To-Do List App
One of the best ways to stay organized is to use a planner or to-do list app. This will help you keep track of your schedule and make sure you don’t forget anything important. There are many great options available both online and offline. Some popular choices include:
- Google Calendar
- Microsoft To Do
- Todoist
- Evernote
These apps make it easy to create and manage tasks, set reminders, and schedule events. Plus, they can be synced across multiple devices, so you always have your schedule with you no matter where you go.
Related Blog Post: How To Plan Your Week Ahead Of Time
- Schedule Chores on Specific Days
Another way to save time is to schedule your chores on specific days. For example, you might designate Mondays as laundry day and Tuesdays as grocery shopping day. This way, you can focus on one task at a time and avoid getting overwhelmed.
By breaking down your household tasks into smaller, manageable chunks, you’ll be able to get more done in less time. Plus, you’ll have a better idea of what your week looks like, so you can plan accordingly.
- Batch Similar Tasks
Batching similar tasks is another great way to save time. This involves grouping together similar tasks and doing them all at once. For example, you might check your email first thing in the morning, then spend the next hour responding to messages. Or, you might spend an hour each day working on your blog posts for the week.
By batching tasks, you can minimize the time it takes to switch between different activities. Plus, you’ll be able to focus on one type of task at a time, which can help you work more efficiently.
- Prepare The Night Before
If you find yourself struggling to keep up from the moment you wake up, it might be helpful to prepare for your day the night before. This will look different depending on your family’s needs. Things like packing lunches, laying out clothes, or making a to-do list for the next day can really help reduce the burden you might face in the morning. By taking care of these tasks ahead of time, you can start your day off on the right foot.
Plus, you’ll be less likely to forget something important if you’ve already planned ahead. This can help reduce stress and make your mornings more enjoyable.
Streamline Your Meals And Grocery Routine
As a working mom, there never seems to be enough time in the day. Between work, school, and extracurricular activities, meal times can often become stressful. Luckily, there are ways to save time and reduce the stress that comes with meal planning and preparation. Here are a few time-saving meal prep strategies that can help:
- Meal Preps and Freezer Cooking
One of the most effective ways to save time in the kitchen is through meal prepping and freezer cooking. This involves preparing meals in advance and storing them in the freezer for later use. Not only does this save time, but it also helps reduce food waste and can save money on groceries.
When it comes to meal prepping, choose recipes that can easily be scaled up and stored in the fridge or freezer. For example, cook a large batch of soup or chili over the weekend and store it in individual containers for quick and easy lunches throughout the week. Similarly, prepping ingredients like chopped veggies, cooked rice or quinoa, and grilled chicken can save time during the busy work week.
Freezer cooking involves preparing entire meals and freezing them for later use. Casseroles, lasagnas, and stews are perfect for this method. Simply make the dish, divide it into individual portions, and freeze. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat and enjoy.
For more information on meal prepping and freezer cooking, check out The Kitchn.
- Easy One Pot Recipes
Another way to save time in the kitchen is by cooking one pot meals. These recipes are often quick and easy to make and require minimal clean up. Plus, they’re perfect for busy weeknights when time is limited.
One pot meals can be made with a variety of ingredients, from pasta and rice to meats and veggies. Some popular one pot meals include chili, stir-fry, and sheet pan dinners. Many of these recipes can also be adapted to use ingredients you already have on hand, making them a great option for using up leftovers.
(Photo by RDNE Stock project)
Delish is one of my go to resources when trying to come up with easy one pot meal ideas.
- Make Use of Grocery Delivery and Pickup Services
With everything we have going on as busy working moms, finding time for grocery shopping can seem like an added burden.
Fortunately, there are now so many grocery delivery and pickup services that can help save you time and make your life a little easier.
Order Groceries Online
Shopping online for groceries is a great way to save time. With just a few clicks, you can add items to your cart and have them delivered to your doorstep. Many online grocery stores also offer the option to save your shopping list, making future orders even quicker and more efficient.
One popular online grocery store is Instacart, which partners with local grocery stores to deliver fresh food and household items to your doorstep.
Grocery Pickup & Delivery
If you prefer to shop in-store, another time-saving option is to use grocery pickup or delivery services. Many grocery stores now offer the option to order your groceries online and pick them up at a designated time. This eliminates the need to navigate crowded stores and wait in long checkout lines.
Some grocery stores, such as Walmart, also offer delivery services for a small fee, where your groceries can be delivered right to your doorstep. This is a great option if you don’t have time to pick up your groceries or simply prefer the convenience of having them delivered.
(Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko)
Overall, grocery delivery and pickup services are a great way for working moms to streamline the grocery shopping process. These services can help make grocery shopping a little easier, more efficient, and will save you hours every single week.
Set Boundaries and Delegate Tasks
One of the most important things you can do is set boundaries and delegate tasks.
- Say No to Unnecessary Commitments
It’s common for working moms to fall into the trap of saying yes to everything. Overcommitment can easily lead to feeling overwhelmed and burned out. It’s important to learn to say no to unnecessary commitments.
Whether it’s volunteering at your child’s school or agreeing to attend a social event, if it doesn’t align with your goals or priorities, then it’s okay to decline.
Instead, learn to say no to unnecessary commitments. This means taking a step back and evaluating each request that comes your way. Ask yourself if it’s something that you really want or need to do. If it’s not, politely decline. Remember that saying no isn’t a sign of weakness or laziness. It’s a way to protect your time and energy.
- Communicate with Family Members
Communicating with your family members is key to managing your time effectively. Make sure that everyone is aware of your schedule and commitments so that they can help you when needed. This will help you to avoid feeling overwhelmed and allow you to delegate tasks to other family members.
- Hire a Cleaning Service
Cleaning can be a time-consuming task, and if you’re a working mom, it can be difficult to find the time to do it. Hiring a cleaning service can save you hours each week and allow you to spend more time with your family. It’s a small investment that can make a big difference in your quality of life.
(Photo by Karolina Grabowska)
By setting boundaries and delegating tasks, you can manage your time more effectively and reduce stress in your life.
Streamline Your Mornings
Mornings can be the most hectic time of the day. Getting yourself and your kids ready and out the door on time can feel like an impossible task. However, with a few simple tricks, you can streamline your mornings and start your day off on the right foot!
- Lay Out Clothes the Night Before
One of the biggest time-wasters in the morning is deciding what to wear. To save time, lay out your clothes the night before. This not only saves you time in the morning but also helps you avoid the stress of trying to find something to wear.
(Photo by Blue Bird)
Need some inspiration on how to organize your wardrobe? Check out these closet organization tips to help you get started.
- Keep Breakfast Simple
Breakfast is an important meal, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. Instead, keep it simple by preparing breakfast items the night before. You can make overnight oats, pre-cut fruit, or even prepare breakfast sandwiches that you can heat up in the morning.
(Photo by Gülşah Aydoğan)
For more breakfast ideas, check out these easy breakfast ideas for moms.
- Set Up a Morning Routine
Having a morning routine can help you stay organized and reduce stress. Create a routine that works for you and your family. This could include waking up at the same time each day, having breakfast together, and packing lunches the night before.
(Photo by William Fortunato)
Need some inspiration on creating an effective morning routine? Check out guide to a stress free morning routine for working moms
You can make your mornings a breeze with these time saving hacks.
the art of effective multitasking
Multitasking (when done right) can help you make the most of your time and increase your productivity. Here are some effective ways to multitask:
- Listen to audiobooks or podcasts while commuting
Young ethnic man in earbuds listening to music while waiting for transport at contemporary subway station (Photo by Andrea Piacquadio)
Listening to audiobooks or podcasts during your daily commute is a great way to make the most of your time. You can learn something new, get inspired, or simply entertain yourself. With a wide variety of audiobooks and podcasts available today, you can easily find something that interests you.
Check out these audiobook and podcast recommendations for working moms.
- Exercise while watching TV
Woman Unrolling A Yoga Mat (Photo by Mikhail Nilov)
Exercising is essential for staying healthy and reducing stress. But finding time to exercise can be difficult for busy working moms. One way to fit exercise into your busy schedule is to do it while watching TV. You can do simple exercises like squats, lunges, or push-ups during commercial breaks or while watching your favorite show.
Check out these TV workout ideas for working moms.
- Combine errands
Couple Buying Groceries at a Supermarket (Photo by Jack Sparrow)
Running errands can take up a lot of time, but you can save time by combining them. For example, you can do your grocery shopping on the way home from work or pick up your dry cleaning on the way to the gym. Planning your errands ahead of time and combining them when you can will save you time and energy.
Take Advantage of Technology
Technology has made it easier than ever to streamline your daily tasks and free up some extra time for yourself. Here are a few ways to use technology to your advantage:
- Use Apps for Meal Planning and Grocery Shopping
Meal planning and grocery shopping can be time-consuming, especially if you’re trying to do it on a tight schedule.
However, there are several apps available that can help simplify the process. Apps like Mealime and Yummly offer personalized meal plans and grocery lists based on your dietary preferences and restrictions. With these apps, you can save time by quickly generating a shopping list and finding recipes that fit your needs.
If you prefer to do your shopping in-store, consider using a grocery list app like Out of Milk or AnyList. These apps allow you to create and share shopping lists with family members and roommates, so everyone stays on the same page. You can also categorize your lists by store aisle, making it easier to navigate the grocery store and save time.
- Automate Bill Payments
Keeping track of bills can be a hassle, but there are ways to make the process easier. Many banks and credit card companies allow you to set up automatic payments for your bills. This means that your bills will be paid automatically each month, without you having to remember to do so. Not only does this save you time, but it can also prevent late fees and missed payments.
(Photo by cottonbro studio)
If you prefer to use a third-party app, consider using a service like Mint or Prism. These apps allow you to see all of your bills and due dates in one place, and you can set up automatic payments directly through the app.
- Use Voice Assistants to Make Lists and Reminders
If you’re always on the go, it can be difficult to keep track of everything you need to do. However, with the help of a voice assistant like Siri or Alexa, you can quickly create lists and reminders without having to stop what you’re doing. Simply tell your voice assistant what you need to remember, and it will create a reminder for you. You can also use voice commands to add items to your shopping list or to-do list.
By taking advantage of technology, you can simplify your daily tasks and free up some extra time for yourself. Whether you’re using meal planning apps, automating your bill payments, or using a voice assistant to create reminders, these tools can help you stay organized and focused, even on your busiest days.
Learn to Prioritize
Being a working mom means that you have a lot of responsibilities to juggle. You have to take care of your family, maintain your home, and still find time to work effectively. It can be challenging to balance everything, but one way to make it easier is by learning to say no and prioritize.
- Prioritize Tasks Based on Importance and Urgency
Once you’ve learned to say no, it’s time to start prioritizing your tasks. This means taking a look at everything that needs to be done and deciding what’s most important and urgent. Use a to-do list or a planner to keep track of everything and assign priorities to each task.
Start by tackling the most important and urgent tasks first. This will help you feel more accomplished and motivated to keep going. Don’t be afraid to delegate tasks to others if you can. Remember that you don’t have to do everything yourself.
By learning to say no and prioritize, you’ll be able to manage your time more effectively and reduce stress. It’s not always easy to do, but it’s an essential skill for any working mom.
Take Care Of Yourself
Being a working mom can be overwhelming and it is important for you to take care of yourself, not just your family. Prioritizing self-care can help you feel refreshed and energized, ready to take on whatever challenges come your way. Here are some ways to take care of yourself:
- Prioritize Sleep
Getting enough sleep is crucial for your physical and mental health, and it can help you be more productive during the day. Make sure you are getting at least 7-8 hours of sleep every night. If you have trouble falling asleep, try creating a bedtime routine, such as reading a book or taking a warm bath, to help you relax and unwind. You can also try using a white noise machine or essential oils to create a calming environment.
(Photo by RDNE Stock project)
- Schedule Time for Self-Care
Make self-care a priority by scheduling time for it in your calendar. This can include activities such as taking a yoga class, getting a massage, or simply taking a relaxing bath. It is important to set aside time for yourself without any distractions or interruptions. This will help you feel refreshed and ready to tackle your responsibilities as a working mom.
- Exercise Regularly
Exercise is not only important for your physical health but also your mental health. It can help reduce stress and increase your energy levels, making it easier to keep up with your busy schedule.
Find an exercise routine that works for you. Whether it’s going for a run, taking a fitness class, or doing yoga at home, make exercise a regular part of your routine.
You can also try incorporating exercise into your daily routine, such as taking the stairs instead of the elevator or going for a walk during your lunch break.
(Photo by Yan Krukau)
By prioritizing sleep, scheduling time for self-care, and exercising regularly, you can take care of yourself and be the best working mom you can be.Taking care of yourself is a necessacity !
Related Links:
- 10 Reasons Why Good Sleep is Important
- Why Self-Care is Important for Stress Management and Overall Health
- The Mental Health Benefits of Exercise
Streamline & Declutter
When juggling the many responsibilities as a mom, it’s common for clutter to accumulate. Decluttering not only creates a more organized living space but also saves valuable time that can be spent looking for items that have been misplaced.
Here are some tips for decluttering to enhance time efficiency in the lives of busy working moms.
- Create A Capsule Wardrobe
If you’re anything like me, you can spend hours thinking of what to wear. If that’s the case, a capsule wardrobe could be the secret weapon that will shave hours off your week.
From Past presidents to iconic entrepreneurs, many have utilized a form of the capsule wardrobe to lesson decision making around getting dressed.
Simply put, a capsule wardrobe is a collection of essential pieces that can be mixed and matched to create a variety of outfits.
A thoughtfully curated collection of clothing items that can be mixed and matched to create countless outfit options. By carefully selecting the core pieces, you can streamline your closet, save money and kiss goodbye to decision fatigue.
Step 1: Assess Your Style and Needs
The first step in creating a capsule wardrobe is to assess your style and needs. Take a look at your current wardrobe and identify the pieces that you wear most often. Consider your lifestyle and the activities you participate in most frequently. This will give you an idea of the types of pieces you need in your capsule wardrobe.
Step 2: Determine Your Colour Palette
Choose neutral colors like black, white, gray, and beige that can be easily mixed and matched. Add a few pops of color if you’d like. to keep things interesting.
Step 3: Choose Your Essential Pieces
Once you’ve assessed your style and needs, it’s time to choose your essential pieces. Your capsule wardrobe should include basic items like a white t-shirt, a black blazer, a pair of jeans, and a little black dress. You should also include a few statement pieces like a colorful scarf or a bold necklace.
Remember, the key to a capsule wardrobe is versatility. Each piece should be able to be worn in multiple ways.
Step 4: Mix and Match Your Outfits
Now that you have chosen your essential pieces, it’s time to start mixing and matching your outfits. With a well-curated capsule wardrobe, you can create dozens of outfits with just a few pieces. Use accessories like scarves, jewelry, and hats to add interest to your outfits.
With a little planning and creativity, you can create a wardrobe that is both stylish and functional.
For more tips on creating a capsule wardrobe, check out The Everygirl.
- Create efficient storage systems
If you’re struggling with dealing with too much stuff, an easy place to start is by investing in storage solutions to keep everything organized.
Bins, baskets and containers are great because you can keep similar items together. This makes finding things much easier. Find a home for everything and make sure that you are trying to keep things organized on an ongoing basis.
Regular maintenance is important. One of the ways that you can achieve this is by using a weekly reset routine.
Use this checklist to create a routine that works best for your home.
FINAL THOUGHTS
These genius time-saving hacks for working moms can be a lifesaver. From delegating tasks to taking advantage of technology, there are many ways to streamline your daily routine and make the most of your time.
Remember to prioritize self-care and find a balance that works for you and your family. By implementing these tips, you can reduce stress, increase productivity, and enjoy more quality time with your loved ones.
So go ahead, give these hacks a try and see the positive impact they can have on your life.
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