7 Simple Strategies to Become a More Productive Parent

Some people cringe at the idea of productivity. It sounds like a fancy term for finding a way to cram even more activity into our already busy schedules. What parent needs that?

But being more productive comes with an unexpected gift. It helps us get those must-do things accomplished efficiently so we have more of the one thing every parent craves—free time. That's time to relax, time to play with our kids, time to go on an adventure, and maybe even time to be alone with a good book instead of spending a few extra stolen minutes hiding in the bathroom. Productivity has its perks!

7 tips to help you be a more productive parent

Put one or more of these tactics to work for you and watch your productivity soar.

1. Have a wakeup ritual that's just for you

Despite the promise you made to yourself to start getting up earlier so you can get a handle on the day, you’ve hit the snooze button three times now. (It’s so warm and peaceful snuggled under your covers!) Now, you and the kids are running dangerously late.

You can make the morning rush less hectic by starting every day with a wakeup ritual.

If this scenario hits home, know that you’re not alone. But there's good news. You can make the morning rush less hectic by starting every day with a wakeup ritual. If you're not much of an early bird, having a plan in place for how you'll spend your time, attention, and energy can smooth the rough edges on crazy mornings.

Although I’m a night owl by nature, there’s something inviting about the quiet of the morning that gets my juices flowing. I have a wakeup ritual that I’ve been following for many years now:

• Upon waking, I lie in bed and listen to a positive meditation via an app on my phone for about five minutes so I can engage in happy thoughts before I greet the rest of my family.
• Making my bed is always next. One of my favorite motivational books is Make Your Bed: Little Things That Can Change Your Life ... And Maybe the World by Admiral William H. McRaven. It’s an easy read and definitely inspired me to look at my mornings and my life differently.
• Hydrating throughout the entire day always makes me feel fresh and more energized. My first glass of H2O is right after I’ve made my bed.
• Connecting with my kids before they leave for school is a must. Though they’re groggy, I can offer them something for breakfast and check in about the upcoming day’s happenings so we’re all on the same page. The hug and “I love you” is a big bonus.
• Finally, I head out for my morning power walk. Not only is it important to help me manage my...

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