Time Management for Work At Home Moms

As a work at home mom dealing with time management... or lack of... I've struggled over the years with priorities and finding time to "do it all".

After studying and trying various methods to optimize my work at home schedule, I’ve come across a few fundamental principals.

Sometimes as mom's and especially if we work at home, we think that we are not in control of our time, therefore time management doesn't apply to us. The truth is, that time management is more important than ever, and we can make it easier and yes... even take control.... well... at least sometimes!

If you can get these principles, you’re well on your way to peace and prosperity.

Tackle one at a time, maybe try one per week and before you know it you’ll be well on your way.

THINK SMALL, MICRO MANAGE – it is utterly amazing to me what can be accomplished in one minute. And it is utterly amazing to me how quickly the minutes can fly by while I have accomplished absolutely nothing. I find that the largest threat to a productive “micro-minute” is procrastination. Make a “Do It Now” rule and your minutes will add up in a good way.

BIG PICTURE – without a big picture, it is impossible to micromanage in an effective way. The big picture is your target… literally your BIG PICTURE… the thing to shoot for. Usually it will take some time to get there. Take the time to draw it out and take the time to follow the steps to get there.

PLAN – A very effective way to plan and achieve what you set out to accomplish is to decide on your Big Picture. Where do you want to go? The first thing to do is decide. Try to keep it simple but inspiring. Follow your star.

But don’t stop there! Work backwards, break each major section into small steps and tackle them on a regular basis. Make changes as needed; it’s all part of the plan. Enjoy seeing results!

WEED – no point in doing a lot of senseless tasks that will only slow you down or take you nowhere. First thing, get rid of all activities and belongings that don’t fit with what you want to do. Be brutal. You can always add more when you have room for it. GET CLEAR. It is amazing how much faster you will go and how much more relaxed you will be. The flip side of the Weeding Coin is Freedom. Breathe.

DELEGATE – what better way to get more done? Delegating is the single most effective way to increase your efficiency. Start small if you aren’t used to getting help. If you’re kids aren’t actively involved in helping out, they are a great place to start. Start with one task per day. You will be amazed at how fast they add up, especially if you have more than one child. They can be your best asset!

FOCUS – Two words. TIME BLOCKS. Block your time and focus on one thing at a time. Brian Tracy calls this single handling and calls it one of the most effective time management tools that you can use. Think of the term “Non Negotiable Tasks”. Do them first to keep you on track, you will be amazed at how productive this habit can be.

MAKE A DECISION – the ability to make quick decisions, especially about the small things is key to effective time management. How much time do you waste making small decisions. What’s the worst that can happen if you just do it?

STICK TO IT – Time Management is just a waste of time without it self discipline. Self Integrity is your number one ally in a happy and successful life.

ORDER – In order to be efficient and clear headed, you need to have everything facing in one direction. I always think of Madonna when I think of this tip. She said of her marriage that both need to be facing in the same direction. This is so true, and it is true of everything in your life. What ever in your life is scattered will slow you down. The shortest distance is a straight line. Think FLOW.

A SYSTEM – Without a system or consistent routine most time management programs are spinning tires to no where. A system is a consistent habit that involves using the most efficient method of getting things done. It works!

LEVERAGING – Take time to design your tasks to make things easier in the future. A simple example is freezer cooking. Using leverage usually involves a system.

OPTIMIZE – Similar to leveraging, keep everything clear and in good working order – your tools, appliances and especially your health.

SET YOURSELF UP – One step today will save you more tomorrow.

BITS AND BITES – I’ve accomplished so much more by taking things one bite at a time than I ever did by trying to eat the elephant in one sitting!

BALANCE – FAMILY, BIZ and YOU… They all work together to make your life great, don’t neglect any of them. Order of importance – You – you need to be strong and happy to look after the rest. Family – don’t wake up one day wondering where everyone went. Biz – It’s your baby, nurture it, grow it but make it work for you.

A LIMITED OPPORTUNITY – Remember every day that your time is limited, make the most of every single day in what is important to you.

THE MOST IMPORTANT THING - Don't forget one thing that a work at home mom needs more than anything - FLEXIBILITY. The last thing you need to do is put pressure on yourself and your family to have a rigid set of expectations... life happens... especially when you have an abundance of it running around your house and sitting on your knee!

Keep your method and planning system flexible but firm. Leave it to a mom, we can do anything :0)

Feeling Overwhelmed? Subscribe to our FREE Ezine "WHAM Time Tips" for tools and tips to make it easier for you and your family.