9 Time-Management Tips for Working Moms in a Hurry

What can you do when parenting consumes all of your time? Take the fine art of getting more done in less time to the next level with these tips.

To say that everyone is busy these days is an understatement—but if you're a working mom, chances are you drove home from the hospital with "busy" in the rearview mirror. I understand. I raised two children while working my way up the corporate ladder in the frenetic and demanding area of nursing and healthcare administration, so I understand how essential spare time is.

The good news is that even the busiest mom can carve out pockets of breathing room even on the busiest of days. So much can be accomplished in those "hot minutes," whether you utilize time to work, care for others, or care for yourself (which I recommend). While everyone benefits from a little more time, working mothers know how to make the most of it—even a 15-minute opening might feel like an hour of potential.

But you don't need to know that. If you're like most working parents, your life is probably meticulously planned down to the last detail. But, be assured, there are ways to take the fine art of accomplishing more in less time to the next level. Here are some of my recommendations.

1. Sleep for a sufficient amount of time.

Prioritize your sleep needs if nothing else so you can thrive. If you're not well-rested, you'll sluggish all day and squander time. Sleep should be scheduled like any other activity, and you should go to bed at a reasonable hour so that you can operate the next day. (As well as enforcing your children's bedtimes.) It's beneficial to both them and you.)

2. Establish work hours that are reasonable.

Make sure you and your future employer have similar expectations for your work hours before you commit to a new position. Life obligations and employment initiatives will come and go, so check in on a regular basis to ensure that expectations haven't shifted. You'll be able to determine whether or not you're available if your boss phones or emails after hours. Many working mothers devote their evenings and weekends to their families.

3. Recognize the significance of the word "no."

You are not required to attend every PTA meeting, oversee all field excursions, or volunteer for extra projects. Saying no can be difficult, but it is a skill that allows you to have time you wouldn't otherwise have. Furthermore, watching you enforce boundaries teaches your children the importance of doing so.

4. Make daily goals that are attainable.

A to-do list that is too ambitious is meaningless. What good is it to write down unrealistic goals? We aren't superhumans, and we shouldn't pretend to be. Make sure your daily objectives are achievable. Remember, if you have the time, you can always do more.

5. Avoid attempting to multitask at all costs.

When people dedicate their full concentration to the task at hand, they do better. Stop fretting about dinner while you're at work, and don't text your husband a grocery list while you're helping your son with math.

6. Let go of the need for perfection.

Because it doesn't exist, you won't be able to obtain it. Find a more practical purpose for your time instead of incessantly cleaning an already clean house or toiling for nebulous ideals (such being the "perfect" mom or having the "perfect" physique).

7. Take a break from the computer.

For both parents and children, surfing the web is a significant time waster. A seemingly innocuous break can quickly escalate into hours of time lost that cannot be recovered. Set screen time boundaries for yourself and your children, and then unplug after you've achieved them.

8. Have a good time while you're at it.

People who are stressed aren't very productive. To avoid burnout at home and at work, you must unwind. To stay grounded and joyful, schedule vacations, extended weekends, and family fun.

9. Become aware of your surroundings in order to be productive.

You can focus on the task at hand when you practice mindfulness. Yoga and meditation can help you focus, and focus leads to productivity. Accept the strategy that appeals to you and return to it if you find yourself drifting.

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