Juggling Work and Kids During School Holidays

Top Time Management Tips for Busy Entrepreneur Parents

Ah, the school holidays.

That magical time of year when your kids are home all day, every day, and you’re trying to run a business. Sound familiar?

If you're an entrepreneur and a parent, you know the struggle. Fear not!

Here are some top time management tips to help you survive

Time Blocking: The Ultimate Jigsaw

Remember those blocks we played with as kids? Well, now you get to play again! Time blocking is all about assigning specific time slots to different tasks. Want to answer emails? Block it. Need to have a meeting? Block it. Kid needs a snack every 10 minutes? Block it. Your calendar will look like a Tetris game, but hey, at least you’ll know where your time goes. Use colour codes for different tasks to make your calendar look even more organised (and cheerful!).

Deadlines: The Procrastinator's Friend

Set deadlines for everything. And I mean everything. Realistic deadlines create a sense of urgency and help you prioritise tasks. Just remember, "ASAP" is not a deadline – unless you enjoy the thrill of last-minute panic. Break larger projects into smaller, manageable tasks with their own deadlines. This way, you're consistently making progress and avoiding the stress of tackling a huge project all at once. Plus, the satisfaction of crossing off tasks from your list is unbeatable. ?

Routine: Your New Best Friend

Kids thrive on routine, and so do you (even if you don’t know it yet). A consistent routine helps in setting expectations and reduces the chaos of daily life. This also helps in creating a balance between work and family time, ensuring you don't miss out on either. If everyone knows what to expect, there will be fewer interruptions – theoretically, at least.

Buffer Time: Because Life Happens

Allow some buffer time between tasks. Think of it as a cushion for when things go sideways – because they will. Meeting ran late? Kids decided to start a small riot? No problem, you’ve got buffer time. It’s like a safety net for your schedule. Even 10-15 minutes of buffer can make a huge difference, allowing you to handle unforeseen events without stress.

Group Tasks: The Art of Multitasking

Group similar tasks together. Answer all emails at once, make all phone calls in one go, and so on. It’s called batching, and it’s like hitting two (or ten) birds with one stone. Bonus: you only have to get into the “work zone” once for each type of task. Batching tasks minimises the cognitive load of constantly switching between different types of work. It increases your productivity and ensures that you're giving focused attention to each category of tasks. Efficiency at its finest.

Take Notes: Your Brain’s Backup Plan

Let’s face it, you’re not going to remember everything. Keep a notebook or a digital note app handy to jot down important things. Having a reliable note-taking system prevents important details from slipping through the cracks. It also frees up mental space, allowing you to focus on the tasks at hand rather than trying to remember everything. Review your notes regularly to stay on top of your commitments.

Automation: Because You’re Not a Robot

Automate whatever you can. Use scheduling tools for social media, set up automatic bill payments, and use email filters. The more you can put on autopilot, the less you have to worry about. And less worry means more time for actual work (or napping, no judgement here). Automation tools can save you a significant amount of time and reduce repetitive tasks.

Explore apps and software that can streamline your workflows, such as project management tools, customer relationship management (CRM) systems, and virtual assistants. This way, you can focus on high-value tasks that require your attention.

Distraction Management: Keep the Squirrels at Bay

Kids, pets, the post man, social media – distractions are everywhere. Set boundaries and stick to them. Create a designated work space, use noise-cancelling headphones, and limit social media time. And remember, a closed door means “do not disturb” – unless someone is bleeding! Educate your family about your work hours and the importance of uninterrupted time. Use apps that block distracting websites and notifications during work periods. A clear, clutter-free workspace also helps in keeping your focus.

Say No: The Power of the Negative

You can’t do everything, and that’s okay. Learn to say no to things that don’t align with your priorities. Politely decline extra work, unnecessary meetings, and even that third PTA fundraiser. Your time is precious – protect it like it’s the last piece of chocolate. Saying no helps you manage your workload and avoid burnout. It's okay to delegate tasks or postpone non-urgent matters. Remember, every "yes" is a "no" to something else – make sure your choices reflect your goals.

Self-Care: The Non-Negotiable

Last but not least, take care of yourself. You can’t pour from an empty cup. Schedule in some “me time” – whether it’s a workout, a walk, or just a quiet coffee break. Your business and your kids will thank you for it.

So there you have it, some tips to help manage your time and keep your sanity during the school holidays. Now go forth and conquer your schedule – and maybe sneak in a nap or two.