We are moms. We have one million and one things to do, and we are always on the lookout for ways to be more productive—to get more done in the limited amount of time we have.
Some productivity hacks are a little complicated like time blocking, batching, or outsourcing tasks. But this tip is easy enough that even your little kids can do it.
What is this magical productivity tip?
Using a timer.
Yes, a timer. Like the one on your phone or smartwatch, in your kitchen drawers, or on your microwave.
You can use timers to help you focus on only one task for a short amount of time. Whether you set a timer for 5, 15, or 30 minutes, you will be amazed at how much you can accomplish in just a few minutes.
I’ve put together a list of just a few of the tasks you can use a timer for to be more productive.
9 Ways You Can Use a Timer to Be More Productive & Happier
1. Decluttering
Decluttering can seem really overwhelming if you are facing your walk-in closet or entire kitchen. But it can be much easier if you choose a small project to tackle and see how far you can get in 15-30 minutes. It can be as simple as picking up the playroom in 15 minutes, or tackling the cabinets under your bathroom sink in 30 minutes.
2. Email
I am one of those people who hates a full inbox. Even if I have 10 messages there, it drives me crazy. But most people regularly have a full inbox of emails that need to be addressed. Set a timer for 30 minutes and see how many you can get through by replying to them, moving them to a folder, or archiving them.
3. Exercise
Exercise is one of those areas where anything is better than nothing. You may not have time for a 30 to 60 minute workout, you probably can find time for a 10-minute workout. Set a timer for 10 minutes and get your body moving, whether it’s walking, yoga, a video, or a workout you pinned on Pinterest. When the timer goes off, you can call it quits or keep going if you are feeling good.
4. Cleaning
It is so easy to procrastinate when it comes to cleaning, because none of us really want to do it. To get myself going, I often set a timer for 15 minutes, pick a small task like cleaning the bathrooms or dusting and see how far I can get. I can usually get one item completed, and if not, I’m close enough that I keep going for a few minutes longer. This trick is a real game changer. Put on some music to make chores more fun, and see what you can accomplish.
5. Reading
Many people would like to read more but aren’t sure how to fit it into their already packed schedule. One way to read more is to take advantage of small cracks of time. If you have 15 minutes before you need to leave home, or 10 minutes waiting in the car line at school, set a timer and read. You could also set a timer to read for 15 minutes before going to sleep each night.
6. Hobbies
After having kids, my extra time to spend on hobbies flew out the window. I enjoy crafting with mod podge, decorating my planner, putting together puzzles, and painting with acrylics. It never feels like I have enough to work on something like that. But I can set a timer and work on a project for 15 minutes. And little by little, I can make real progress.
7. Social media
Social media is definitely one of my biggest time wasters. It is so easy for me to open Instagram or Pinterest, and 30 minutes later, find that I have gone down a rabbit trail. And what does it really do for me? Entertainment? When I know I need to be more disciplined with my social media usage, I set a timer for 15 minutes and let myself go wild. But when the timer goes off, it’s time to put away the phone and get back to real life.
8. Kids
I mentioned before that using timers with your kids is easy and helpful. Set a timer to limit their screen time. Or turn toy clean-up into a fast-as-you-can game by setting a 5-minute timer. Settle those “5 more minutes” pleas at bedtime by literally setting a 5-minute timer. I even got my oldest a sand timer to make sure she was brushing her teeth long enough. Timers are magic with kids, my friends.
9. Prayer
I am ashamed to admit it, but my Bible reading and prayer time probably lasts no more than 15 minutes each morning. I read the passage, write a quick prayer (because writing it keeps me from getting distracted), and then I jump into my day. The Holy Spirit doesn’t get much of a chance to speak to me. We can only hear Him when we give Him time and stillness. One way I’m trying to deepen my prayer life is by setting a timer for 5 minutes just to listen. That is not very long, but we all have to start somewhere.
You can use timers both to limit the amount of time you spend on some things, and to encourage you spend more time doing other things.
The beauty is its simplicity.
If you are looking for other ways to be more productive and reclaim your time, sign up to get my free guide called 25 Ways to Save More Time.
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