Struggling to get everything done today? If you're like most moms, your list probably feels endless. Here are seven ways to organize and get more done. You've got this!

If you’re like most moms, there never seem to be enough hours in the day. At the end of the day, do you find yourself exhausted with laundry yet to be done and dishes piled in the sink? Are you tired of feeling like life is one big juggling act? Here are 7 ways to get more done every day.

7 Ways to Get More Done Every Day

1. Get Plenty of Sleep…(no really!)

Without enough sleep, none of us is at our best. Making sure that, after the kids are in bed, you limit your relaxation (or chore) time so that you get enough sleep will make sure that you are able to get up and go as soon as you hear that alarm (or little voice). If you find yourself having a difficult time winding down in the evening, choose a book rather than the TV and limit your caffeine in the afternoon.

2. Take Care of Yourself

Similar to getting enough sleep, you must take care of yourself through diet and exercise. If you’re weak or sick from not eating the right foods or lack of working your muscles, you won’t have enough energy to make it through work (at home or in a work place), extracurricular activities, dinner and homework. Consulting with your doctor about a vitamin regimen can also help you to be sure that you’re getting the nutrients you need.

3. Make Lists and Keep Calendars Updated

If you’re like me, I used to keep everything going without lists and calendars. That was before kids (and lots of schedules to maintain). Keep appointments and other commitments written on a calendar for easy reference as you’re planning your week. Then, each day, make two lists: the must do and the need to do. The must dos would be just that: the appointments, laundry (when there are no more clean clothes, etc). The need-to-dos would be all of the chores and errands that you would like to accomplish, but realize it’s okay to let go of for that day.

Make your goal to get through the “must-do” list and a few items on the “need-to-do” list …and forgive yourself if you never make it to the “need-to-dos.” To get you on your way, check out these free planning resources for busy moms.

4. Schedule your Day (and Stick to it)

In planning your day, make a schedule. While it may not be down to the minute, know what each chunk of time will hold. For example, your morning may be 7-8am breakfast and read, 9-11:30am work (or homeschool) 11:30-12:30 Lunch and play. Set aside general timeframes for each of your day’s must dos. For ideas on how to build homeschooling into your schedule check out "How to Make the Most of Everyday Homeschool Moments".

5. Get Everyone on Board with Routines

Depending on your family’s schedule, setting routines will help everyone to be on the same page for each day. If on Saturday morning, for example, you usually do the grocery shopping, that will help the kids to plan to help you (or help your spouse to be available to be with the kids). Likewise, if your children are homeschooled, regular routines will help them to be disciplined for learning times. Keeping routines will help everyone in your family to work as a team.

6. Set your Priorities

In determining your must dos for the day, really think about your priorities. Yes, you may be tired of looking at those dirty windows and the fridge might need to be cleaned out, but has it been awhile since you’ve baked with your kids or done a craft together? Sometimes housework is unavoidable, but knowing your priorities (and remembering them) for the day will help you to build in a good balance of family and other responsibilities. You can't get it all done, so setting your day according to priorities is the best idea.

7. Get the Kids Involved

When you feel like you’ve got more on your plate than you can handle, think about ways that your kids might be able to help. Can they help you sweep the floors or dust the furniture? Are you able to involve them in making the meals? Getting the kids involved in keeping your home running smoothly will help get your tasks done more quickly, while teaching your little ones important skills.

Do you have other ways to get more done every day? What are your ideas?

Carlie K.
Today's Frugal Mom & Moms for Literacy