Bella Magazine September 2013 | Page 50

better life 13 tips to get MORE TIME Simple time-saving ideas for busy women - to claim some carefree minutes for the important things - like yourself! 1. Plan ahead 4. The important stuff first 2. Wake Up Earlier 5. Always use a list Make a list of ‘to do’ things every day and prioritize it. Then stay with each item until you have completed the most important ones. Also, plan all the crucial tasks before noon, when your brain works best. That way everything will go better and faster. Start deciding the night before what to wear the next day. Leave everything you normally need to get ready in the morning out and ready. Also, decide how you will have your hair and makeup. It’s easy. If you need more time, wake up sooner! An early wakeup call isn’t pleasant, but soon, you’ll grow accustomed to your new schedule and value this extra time in your day. Having a list means you have a plan of action that will save you time and minimize the stress of deciding what to do next, both at work or at the grocery store. With a list in hand you’ll shop more efficiently, buy only the products you came for, and get in and out much faster than if you shop without one. 3. Avoid rush hour Leaving for work an hour earlier (or on bike) can cut at least 30 minutes out of a daily commute. By coming in to work on time or even earlier will give you some time to do the most important work without being disturbed. 6. Learn to say no If you say ‘yes’ to every request, you will never have any free time. Get super protective about your time, and say ‘no’ to everything but the essential requests. It may be uncomfortable telling people that you just don’t have the time to commit to this right now, but often they’ll understand. 7. Disconnect If you really want to focus on a task, and really get it done, get disconnect from the Internet. It will help you be more productive and eventually finish your work faster. That leaves you more time for other things. 49