It’s a constant struggle to always be on time. But alarms aren’t just for getting out of bed. These tips are easy enough to help anyone, and even if you aren’t constantly behind schedule, there is always room for improvement.
1. They plot out a week’s worth of outfits
Be honest: How much time do you waste staring into your closet in a pre-caffeine haze, wondering what to wear? Well, you can pick out five outfits every Sunday. Put on one hanger the pants, shirt, jacket, and any under garments that you’ll need and hang this up in your closet. This way when you get up in the morning, you can grab the outfit you feel like wearing and you’re not rummaging in the dark for underwear. This also helps protect you from those unfortunately times when you grab black underwear and decide to wear white pants.
2. They keep at least three lists
Keep three calendars and to-do lists: A physical day planner to carry with you (and where you can jot down notes about what to do later), a Google calendar that alerts you before appointments or monthly tasks, and a magnetic monthly calendar on the refrigerator door so that all family members can write down their appointments — that way, no one gets surprised or forgets where they need to get to go.
3. They include the ‘in-betweens’
When figuring how soon to head out the door, most people don’t remember the routine things they do every day on autopilot. For example, they know they take 30 minutes to drive to soccer practice — but they forget that it takes them five minutes to get their kids in the car. Setting the security alarm, putting the dog in the kennel, and clearing your voicemail all take a few minutes, even if you’re not counting on them.
4. They schedule time to go online
The checkout line may be a great chance to scroll Facebook. But longer tasks like checking school newsletters, work emails, and staying in touch with family can be a major time-suck. And ever tried to dash off an email as you head out the door? That five second response often takes several minutes — and it will be sloppy because you’re rushing. Instead, carve out a set amount of time for work — and play — and stick to it.
5. They line up their bill due dates
Timing is also pretty key for those pesky bills. Instead of keeping track of a dozen due dates, line them all up: Most companies will let you change the dates of your billing cycle so that the bills come during the portion of the month that you want them to, and then you don’t have to think about it at all for the rest of the month!
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