I’ve started giving myself 10 minute challenges. I set my timer for 10 minutes and tackle a household chore while my children are having a snack or lunch. It’s amazing how much you can accomplish in only 10 minutes when you focus on the task. The 10 minute challenge is a weekly feature on Mommies with Cents. Each week, I will show you one of the things I was able to accomplish in 10 minutes. I encourage you to join me- it really easy amazing what you are able to achieve, even if it’s incremental, if you set your mind (and timer!) to it!
I took the last two weeks off while I prepared for and gave birth to my 3rd baby. Since she’s almost 2 weeks old now, I figured I better get back it! Things have been hectic around here to say the least. My daily routine has changed while my husband has been on paternity leave (and since adding a child!) The Hubs goes back to work next Wednesday (pray for me!) so hopefully the kids and I will get back into a better schedule.
This week, I eased myself back into the 10 minute challenge. In fact, I’ll admit, I didn’t even set my timer. What I did do though was get a few quick things marked off my to-do list while my older two had a snack and the baby napped. Here’s what I did in approximately 10 minutes:
Filled out, stamped and addressed some mail and wrote a check. (ordered a copy of the baby’s birth certificate, submitted the birth announcement to the paper and ordered my free issues of Parenting magazine)
Fixed my son’s step stool. The lid had come off and I had just set it aside because I was too lazy to go find a screw driver.
Started a load of laundry (How does one little baby seem to TRIPLE the amount of laundry?!
Not a huge accomplishment but at least a got a couple of things marked off of my to-do list and felt better that I actually did SOMETHING.
I’d love to hear ways you manage your time at home with kids. Please share your tips with me and our other readers by leaving a comment, then come back next week for another 10 minute challenge!
Be sure to check out all of our other 10 minute challenge posts!
karen M says
You accomplished a lot in those 10 minutes! I get more done with the oldest are in school, during the day, it’s off and on with my newborn grandson, have to stop and cuddle with him while his mommy has a little free time.
The only tip I can offer that works for me is a having a schedule and chore charts. with 6 living in this home ( 2 families) I set aside each day for different chores and everyone pitches in. Everyone know what they need to do to help out. I see the kids helping each on their chores if one has scout or sport night activities.
Hubby pitches in loads the dishwasher and the kids help put away anything on the cabinets.