We only get 24 hours in a day, and while that might seem like a lot, chances are, you’re all too aware of how little room that leaves to get everything done.
Of course, that doesn’t take into account the fact that we also waste a lot of time, whether intentionally — scrolling through social media, watching TV on the sofa, etc. — or because we don’t know more efficient ways of completing tasks or fulfilling certain responsibilities. The good thing is that there are little so-called “hacks” that can help you maximise what time you do have, which will inevitably lead to more productivity and hopefully less stress for you. Try doing these things and see how much more open and less overbooked your days become.
1. Plan your day the night before.
Taking five minutes before bed to jot down a to-do list can make your mornings smoother. It eliminates the need to make decisions first thing and gives you a clear direction to start the day. Doing this reduces the likelihood of procrastination and helps you stay focused on your priorities. Start with just three key tasks for the next day. Overloading your list can feel overwhelming, so keep it realistic and achievable. Waking up knowing what needs to be done gives you a sense of purpose and control, setting the tone for a productive and satisfying day ahead.
2. Batch similar tasks together.
Switching between unrelated tasks eats up time and drains mental energy. Batching, or grouping similar tasks, helps you stay in the zone and work more efficiently. For example, respond to all emails at once rather than checking them throughout the day, which can create unnecessary distractions. Doing this also works for household chores, errands, or even work projects. Designate specific blocks of time for these activities to stay organised. By focusing on one category at a time, you’ll not only complete tasks faster but also experience less mental fatigue and greater clarity.
3. Use a timer for tasks.
Setting a timer creates a sense of urgency, helping you focus and work faster. Known as the Pomodoro Technique, this method involves working for 25-minute intervals, followed by short breaks. It keeps your brain engaged without leading to burnout, especially during long work sessions. Try it with tasks that usually drag on or feel monotonous. You’ll be surprised at how much you can accomplish in just a short, concentrated burst of effort. Plus, knowing a break is coming makes even the most tedious tasks feel manageable and less intimidating.
4. Prepare meals in advance.
Cooking every day can eat up a lot of time, especially if you’re starting from scratch each time. Meal prepping saves hours throughout the week and ensures you always have something ready to eat, even on the busiest days. It’s a great way to reduce decision-making and cut down on stress. Set aside a couple of hours once a week to prepare ingredients or full meals in advance. Store them in portioned containers so they’re ready to grab and go. It not only saves time but also encourages healthier eating habits, as you’ll be less tempted by convenience foods.
5. Declutter your workspace.
A messy desk or crowded area can slow you down, making it harder to concentrate and find what you need. Taking just 10 minutes to tidy up can instantly boost your productivity and make work feel less overwhelming. You’d be amazed at how much clearer your mind feels in a clean space. Keep only the essentials within arm’s reach, and use organisers or storage bins to keep clutter at bay. A clean, organised space creates a more focused environment, helping you tackle your tasks with ease and leaving you feeling less scattered throughout the day.
6. Automate recurring tasks.
Technology can handle many of the repetitive tasks that eat up your time. From scheduling bill payments to setting reminders for routine appointments, automating these things frees up your mental energy for more important matters. Even minor automations can make a huge difference. Look into apps or tools that can streamline your day. For example, smart home devices can manage your household routines, while online subscription services can handle groceries or household supplies. These small adjustments can simplify your life and give you back valuable hours every week.
7. Lay out your clothes the night before.
Source: Unsplash Deciding what to wear can be surprisingly time-consuming, especially when you’re rushing in the morning. Laying out your outfit the night before eliminates this decision entirely and helps you start your day with less stress and more confidence. For even more convenience, plan outfits for the entire week on Sundays. Knowing exactly what to wear each day saves time and reduces decision fatigue, giving you one less thing to worry about as you head out the door feeling put-together.
8. Keep a running shopping list.
Source: Unsplash Instead of trying to remember what you need every time you shop, maintain a list that you update as items run out. This habit saves you from making multiple trips and ensures you don’t forget essentials. It’s one of the simplest ways to streamline your routine. Use a note-taking app or a magnetic list on your fridge for easy access. By keeping everything in one place, you can avoid the frustration of forgotten items and make your shopping trips quicker and more efficient, leaving more time for things you enjoy.
9. Set time limits for social media.
Scrolling through social media can quickly eat up hours without you even noticing. Setting daily limits helps you reclaim that time and use it for things that truly matter. There are loads of productivity apps that make it easy to track and manage. Replace idle scrolling with more meaningful activities, like reading, journaling, or catching up with a friend. For such a tiny change, it can dramatically increase your sense of accomplishment while still allowing time to unwind in a healthy, balanced way.
10. Keep essential items in one place.
How much time do you spend looking for your keys, wallet, or phone? Having a designated spot for everyday essentials saves time and prevents those last-minute panics before heading out. It’s deceptively basic, but can make your mornings so much easier. Create a “drop zone” near the entrance of your home where you can keep all your important items. By making it a daily habit, you’ll always know where to find what you need, reducing stress and helping you stay more organised without much effort.
11. Use waiting time wisely.
Waiting in queues or sitting in traffic doesn’t have to feel like wasted time. Use these moments for small, productive tasks like replying to emails, listening to an audiobook, or brainstorming ideas for upcoming projects. Even five minutes can make a difference. Having a list of quick, portable activities ready can help make the most of these moments. Whether it’s jotting down a grocery list or reading a short article, these little tasks add up and give you a sense of progress, even during otherwise idle moments.
12. Learn keyboard shortcuts.
If you spend a lot of time on your computer, keyboard shortcuts can massively speed up your workflow. Simple commands for copying, pasting, or switching windows can save seconds that quickly add up over the course of a day. Print out a list of shortcuts for the programs you use most and keep it handy until they become second nature. Once you’ve mastered them, you’ll find yourself breezing through tasks that used to take twice as long, freeing up more time for other priorities.
13. Create a morning routine.
Starting your day with a consistent routine sets the tone for everything that follows. Whether it’s a quick workout, journaling, or enjoying a quiet cup of tea, having a predictable flow eliminates decision fatigue and creates momentum for the rest of your day. Find a routine that works for you and stick to it. Even small rituals, like a five-minute stretch or writing down a daily intention, can make a big difference. These habits help ground you and leave you feeling more prepared to tackle anything.
14. Delegate tasks when possible.
Trying to do everything yourself can be overwhelming and inefficient. Delegating tasks, whether at work or home, allows you to focus on what’s most important and prevents burnout. It’s a skill that can save you time and mental energy in the long run. Start small by asking for help with errands or sharing responsibilities with family or coworkers. Delegating isn’t about avoiding work; it’s about prioritising your time and energy where they matter most, leaving you feeling more in control and less overburdened.
15. Review your day before bed.
Source: Unsplash Taking a few moments each evening to reflect on what you’ve accomplished helps you identify what’s working and what could be improved. It’s simple enough, but it keeps you organised and ensures you’re always moving forward, even on tough days. Focus on what went well rather than dwelling on what didn’t. Recognising your progress, no matter how small, can boost your confidence and motivation to tackle the next day with a clear mindset. It’s a small habit that creates a big sense of accomplishment over time.
