Running a family isn’t easy, don’t let anyone tell you that it is. If they tell you that, they are flat out lying. Or they are super rich, possibly a movie star, and have tons of money, and nannys to raise their children help out. But there are ways to help keep things moving smoothly, keep everyone organized, and even allow time you to squeeze in an episode of Lost your fave TV show. TwitterMoms and IconApps are wondering, how exactly do you keep a family organized? This is how I do it.

1. Have a schedule and stick to it. Most of our weeks follow the same pattern, playgroups, grocery shopping, working, more playgroups, cleaning. You get the picture. Keeping things consistent is easier on the kiddo, and easier on me. There are very few days that I have to scramble to find something to do.
2. Delegate household duties. I do the laundry, cleaning, grocery shopping, and the cooking. Dad-oo brings home the  bacon, takes out the garbage and helps out in the other areas when he can.
3. Plan ahead. Meal planning has really saved me time, stress and unexpected grocery bills.
4. Make lists. My brain is so full of mommy holes that I would be lost without my lists. Especially grocery lists.
5. iCal with reminders. I add everything to my calendar the second it is scheduled. I use pop-up reminders, often days, and hours before the event.
6. Ask for help. I like to do it all, but when I can’t, I politely suggest that Dad-oo take on some responsibilities. Saves my sanity, and saves a fight from breaking out later when I’m exhausted.
7. Expect that things won’t always go as planned. I’m almost always late to playgroups, no matter how far I plan ahead. You know what, that’s just the way it is, and I’m not going to stress about it.
8. Me time. I plan my me time around everyone’s schedule, for the most part. Even if that means getting up before the sun rises to exercise. It’s worth it. But there are some weeks where I need some extra time to clear my head. And I take it. I can’t run a house with a cloudy brain.
9. Let it go. Sometimes I just have to accept that the house won’t be spotless. There are far more important things that I could be doing, like coloring with the kiddo, reading him a story, or peering out the window for buses and trucks that drive by
10. Have a glass of wine and big old piece of chocolate. Life is just a little sweeter when you indulge in your fave things.

Photo Credit: David G-H

What are your tips for keeping your family on track?

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Tagged as: family, iconapps, managing, momy blog, organizing, twittermoms