Would you like to get to work, school, or appointments on time?
If you are chronically late, imagine what life would be like if your family left the house on time most days or even every day. Wouldn't that be a great start to your day? You may even have time to pick up a cup of coffee.
Since I'm guilty of trying-to-do-one-more-thing before I leave, I've developed some habits and routines to I'm ensure I'm on time, most of the time. It looks especially bad if a professional organizer is late to her client appointments:)
Here are 6 habits of an on-time person.
1. Have a home for your keys, phone, wallet/purse and sunglasses. Isn't it frustrating when you can't find those items? They need a home. An area near your door may be the perfect spot. Drop them in a container or hang them on a hook when you return home. Look for a basket or bin to use in your entry. Hang up some hooks for your purse and keys.
2. Get up earlier. Even if it's only 10 minutes earlier. If you typically run late, maybe you aren't allowing enough time to get ready. Tonight, set your alarm 10 minutes earlier than normal.
3. Prepare the night before, especially if getting up earlier doesn't appeal to you. Set out your clothing and shoes for the next day, put items in the car that can reside there safely overnight, and make your lunch. What can you do to prepare the night before?
4. Write out a checklist for your kids to follow in the morning. Instead of continually reminding them to brush their teeth and comb their hair, ask them if their checklist is complete. I hung one on my daughter's mirror. What will you put on your kid's checklists?
5. Avoid all electronic distractions until you are completely ready.You may have to confiscate your kid's phones. What are your family's biggest distractions in the morning?
6. Set a loud timer to go off 5 minutes before you have to leave. I find this tip especially helpful when I'm trying to do one more thing. It's my cue to STOP and get out the door. This timer can also be your kids signal to get in the car. What timer will you use?
Choose a couple or all of these tips and make a commitment to being on time for a week. I guarantee your mornings will be much calmer.
Would you like more free organizing tips and inspiration? Check out my shiny new blog: From Overwhemed to Organized .
