1. Multi-Task
   Do two or more things at once. Exercise in front of the TV, while you're catching up on the news, or watching a favorite program. Sew a missing button on a blouse, while you're waiting for a pot to boil.
2. Say no
   You don't have to say yes to every single request for your help. Schedule a set amount of time each week for random requests. Once that time slot is filled, don't take any more requests for your time that week.
3. Stop running up and down the stairs
   Tired of running up and down the stairs while you're cleaning? Stock a set of cleaning supplies on each level of your home.
4. Set up a bill paying area
   Keep a set of bill paying supplies--your bill paying organizer, a calculator, pens, pencils, your checkbook, stamps, envelopes and address labels--in one defined place. Next time you want to pay bills, you'll be done in a jiffy.
5. Use kitchen scissors.
   Stop fumbling with knives. You'll be amazed at the time you an save by simply using kitchen scissors to open bags, chop herbs or cut up fish or poultry.
6. Book while you're there.
   Whenever you visit your doctor, dentist or hairdresser, bring your date book and book the next appointment before you leave the office.
7. Call before you go.
   Hate driving all the way to the video store or library and discovering that the video or book you wanted is already checked out? Next time, call before you leave home and ask if that video or book is available. If it is, great! If not, you've saved yourself an unnecessary trip.
8. Stop waiting in line.
   Make your purchases from the Internet. For the small amount you'll pay in shipping and handling, you will have saved time driving to the store, time waiting in line, and money in fuel costs.
9. Open mail over the recycling bin.
   Don't carry your mail over to your desk or table where it's bound to pile up and take hours to go through later. Open it right over the recycling bin, and get rid of all unnecessary mail immediately.
10. Stop checking email every 5 minutes.
    Email is great, but if you're checking for new mail every five minutes, you can easily get distracted and time is going to quickly slip away. Check for email only or twice per day.
11. Make lists.
    Stop trying to remember everything you have to do. You're bound to forget something, and it may result in lost time or a missed appointment. Write it down and let your list remember for you.
12. Set goals and deadlines.
    Know what you have to do, and attach deadlines to those tasks. Don't waste time constantly having to think about' what's next.
13. Screen your calls.
    Don't answer the phone every time it rings. If you do, you'll find yourself talking to telemarketers or people who would be more convenient to talk to at another time. Screen your calls. Only return those you wish to return. And call back your friends and relatives during a set telephone hour later.
14. Get ready the night before.
    Stop wasting morning time frantically running around like a mad person trying to get done to get to work on time. Do whatever you can to prepare yourself the night before. Set the breakfast table. Lay out your clothes, and your kids' clothes. Have the coffeepot start automatically by using the timer.
15. Restrict TV viewing to your favorites.
    Use your VCR to tape your favorite programs. Then, watch them during a designated time each night, or each week-- and zap through the commercials!

by Maria Gracia - Get Organized Now! http://www.getorganizednow.com FREE Get Organized Now! Idea-Pak and E-zine, filled with tips and ideas to help you organize your home, your office and your life, at the Get Organized Now! Web site