Ok so I can’t physically add an extra hour to your day.  But before you click off the page, you can actually save time and I’m here to help you get better organized.that sentence.   I’m working on it.   These are 5 ways that have helped me get on top of my game.  5 organization tips, if you will:

5 Ways to Add An Extra Hour to Your Day

1. PLAN OUT YOUR DAY –
   Have you heard the quote “If you fail to plan, you plan to fail?”  It’s pretty harsh.  But taking time to plan out your day will guarantee to have more structure and the ability to accomplish what you need and want to.  This can be done several ways – the night before, first thing in the morning, whatever floats your boat.  Just set aside a dedicated time to make a plan and stick to it.
2. SET A TIMER –
   This goes for anything – cleaning, working, working out.  If you set a timer to go off within 20-30 minutes depending on the task, you are more likely to stick to it.  Once that timer goes off move to the next item on the list.
3. DO SOMETHING FUN –
   While everyone has things on their list that they loath (laundry I’m talking to you), if you do something fun the day won’t feel so darn long.  Break it up.  Dance in the kitchen if that’s your thing.  Call your best friend.  Read a book.  Whatever you consider fun- do it, at least once a day.
4. TURN IT OFF-
   That’s right.  Turn off your phone, computer, tv, etc.  Disconnect.   It doesn’t have to be all day long.  But take some time each day to put it aside and you’ll be amazed at how much you can accomplish and how it seems like you have more time.  Do it.  I double dog dare you.
5. WRITE IT DOWN –  
   This is where I come in.  I created a simple little to do checklist.  I’ve made some in the past but this one is more detailed.  It has spots for all kinds of things with little boxes to check off.  I also made one without the categories in case you don’t like the ones I use.  Writing down your plan will help most people stick with it (especially visual learners like me!).   Instead of getting distracted 19109120192 times a day, it’ll only be 19109120 and leave you with more time.

Kate is the founder of Learn and Grow Books, which is a website for parents and teachers of pre-K children.