7 Simple Ways to Save Time in a Busy Schedule | Productiveandfree

Sometimes, it feels like there need to be more hours in the day to get everything done. To reclaim your busy life, you must streamline and prioritize things. Here are a few ways to take hold of time and spend your life how you want to, including enjoying your downtime.

1. Say No

Setting boundaries may be one of your least favorite things if you're a people pleaser. However, you can't keep saying yes to things you have no time for. Sometimes, you have to give up on certain experiences. You must prioritize yourself and what's important to you just as much as you want to focus on your loved ones.

Often, people are afraid to say no because they're worried about what others will think of them. Taking on a challenge to say no to everything for 24 hours can show you that nobody hates you for sticking up for yourself — and if they do, they shouldn't be in your life, anyway. Take this time to prioritize what you must do to get caught up in your life. Then, maybe you'll feel ready to say yes again.

2. Have an Organized System

Everything in your life must be organized to save more time. Sort things into folders, whether photos on your phone or documents on your desktop. That way, when you're looking for something important, you'll be able to find it quickly, thanks to your system. You can name these folders however you like, but remember to group similar things together.

You should also organize things in your home. Less clutter will help you find items more easily and spend less time stressing or worrying about where you put them. A clean home leads to a happy household and might improve your mental health, too — which is a bonus when you feel like there's not enough time in the day.

3. Get Your Groceries Delivered

Grocery shopping can take up a lot of your free time, especially when stores are busy. You can cut out the extra trip and have your groceries delivered for an additional fee. This could save money by preventing picking up things you don't need and keeping your kids from putting junk food in your cart. Cutting out the snacks can help you save the money you pay in delivery or pickup fees.

4. Streamline Your To-Do List

Some people build ambitious to-do lists. They might be pages long, and even the most productive person can't finish all the tasks. Break your tasks up over a couple of days. Begin by recognizing what you should prioritize.

Put your most important things first on your to-do list. That way, you can ensure they'll get done that day. For example, making an appointment to go to the doctor is more important than finishing a book you're reading. Sort your priorities so your day gets easier as time goes on.

5. Start Your Morning Right

Your morning is crucial for ensuring the rest of your day goes well. Being productive first thing will make you feel accomplished before your day starts. That achievement may carry you through the rest of the day and encourage you to complete more things. For example, starting with breakfast might be a great way to give you the energy to keep you going — and you won't be struggling by lunchtime.

You can also start a morning skin care routine. Applying hydrating products can make you feel better about yourself and your appearance. You may walk into your workplace with more confidence. Find out what you must prioritize in the morning to put your best foot forward. These routines take time, but you’re bettering yourself rather than being unproductive.

6. Set Time Limits on Apps

Setting limits is a good idea if you spend too much time scrolling on your phone. This is a great way to ensure you're not spending too long on any one app that could distract you from doing something more meaningful.

Manage screen time on an iPhone by following these instructions:

Settings > Screen Time
App Limits > Add Limit
Select Apps by Category (or go into a category to select the app)

Here's how to set your screen limits on an Android:

Settings > Digital Wellbeing & Parental Controls
Tap the Chart
Click "Set Timer" for Apps

These time limits will help you build better habits around using your phone. You may eventually see yourself spending less time endlessly scrolling on social media.

7. Plan and Prep Your Meals

Planning and prepping your meals is one of the easiest ways to cook in bulk and save time. Every Sunday night, you can prepare a huge batch of carbohydrates, like rice or potatoes, to provide energy and fill you up. Choose a protein for the week. For example, if you choose chicken, you can cook it in two different ways, such as lemon and teriyaki. That way, you can pair different flavors of protein with the batch of carbs you've created.

When you don't have to worry about putting together meals in the morning, you don't have to feel like you're in such a rush. The best part is that you can be sure you're getting all the nutrition you need and won't feel tempted to reach for snacks that are bad for you. Plus, you won’t have your usual food waste because you’re planning just the right amount. You might also save money by buying things in bulk.

Take Advantage of Your Time

Time is your most important resource. Once it's gone, you don't get it back. You must be smart about how you spend it, especially when your schedule feels so tightly packed. Prioritizing the important things will help you reclaim your time and experience a more satisfying life.