Homeschool Minute Vintage Homeschool Moms

Homeschool Minute - Getting Things Done ~ Episode 473

What is in a minute? 60 seconds to get something done! Some of the most productive people I know have three things going for them. One, they do not waste time, two, they know how to multi-task, and three they have a plan or a list. So, do you want to make a change in your life and join those super-productive people? Listen to this episode!



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Lord, can I just please have a few more hours in my day? Is this a prayer you have prayed? Why is it that some people get so much done and others flounder? You've heard it all and here is the shortlist: get organized, get a plan, make a list - check it twice, and look at your priorities. Does this list sound familiar?



I think the most frustrating part is feeling that we don't get very much done, often because we plan way too much and there is no way, even with an army of helpers can we get it done in one day. We expect to cook, clean, do laundry, homeschool the kids, take them to lessons, and have a happy outlook on life each day. I'm not going to say that you should lower your expectations, but I am going to say that you need a list that is doable.



We overdo everything (raise your hand if you are an overachiever). Or, maybe you are a procrastinator, and why do today what you can do tomorrow?



Troubleshooting Problems:



* Kids can't finish their assignments - Is this truly an issue with behavior, or difficulty or do you need to cut back on the number of problems, for example, math is required each day?

* The schedule has too much on it - cut something out or do things two days a week or three days a week and give yourself more time.

* Meal planning helps - repurpose food. Baked chicken on day one, use leftovers on day five with barbeque sauce, or make a quick pot pie (use store-bought crust - it's okay). Keep weekday meals simple. Breakfast for dinner or sandwiches for dinner is fine if that is all the time you have.

* Frustration. On the part of the parent. Find out what is troubling you and address the issue.

* Frustration. On the part of the students. Ask them specifically what the issue is and discern a solution.



Figuring out a solution can save you time and energy. It is hard to be upbeat and optimistic when you are frustrated.



Some of the best advice I've picked up from marketing classes and business classes. These classes talk about working smarter rather than harder and that means analyzing what you want to do and figuring out the time involved.



What about some really practical things you can actually implement today? First of all look at what you need to accomplish. Is it looking for a homeschool curriculum? Is it making a meal plan? Is it teaching the kids in a way that they will remember?



Look at what you want to get done and ask yourself the following questions:



* How long will it take?

* What really needs to get done immediately?

* What can you do later?

* Who can help you?

* What will have to be put off until later?



Best Practice and Tips for Accomplishing



* Use small bits of time.

* Keep a running list of things you need to do that are not immediate.

* Select one or two things to accomplish.

* Keep interruptions at a minimum.

* Put the phone in another room with the ringer on.