There are only twenty-four hours in a day, and all too often we have to juggle our professional, family, social, cultural and domestic lives. It's only at the end of the day, which passes at lightning speed, that we realise how little time we have for ourselves. Often this is due to poor time management, which is out of our control because we are overwhelmed. We then watch desolately as our own show of tasks - often domestic - piles up. Here are some tips on how to better manage time at home and therefore gain time for ourselves

Using home help, a safe solution

One solution that we tend to overlook is the use of professional cleaning services

. Companies working with professional people who take care of childcare, ironing, gardening and cleaning are there to help us. We often deprive ourselves of them for financial reasons. But it may be worth a try, because there are good rates. In this way, we forge new human relationships with competent people, for a quick and better result. This can be especially beneficial if you live in a large home that takes a long time to clean. Also,

if you're sharing a house and don't know how to divide the chores between you, hiring an outsider can be a sure way to get things done.

Easy tips for better organisation at home

Whether it's administrative or domestic chores, we often leave them until the last moment out of phobia or boredom. This is normal: the reward for these tasks does not seem immediate, or their importance is invisible to us. But the systematic postponement of these tasks can ultimately have a negative effect on morale and it ends up turning into a vicious circle.

A known but sure trick is to write a list of all the tasks to be done during the day

. It gives you a general overview, not just of the day but of the week, and you can list them in order of importance and cross them off once the tasks are done. So, by making a schedule with a time allocated to each task, you regain a sense of control. Keep in mind that it is better to overestimate the duration of a task than the opposite. Start with the unpleasant tasks that tend to be put off. The feeling of accomplishment and self-satisfaction is then guaranteed, and you will be motivated to continue! You will feel less like you are racing against the clock and less overwhelmed.

Regularity

is also a key word. The more regularly you complete a task, the more natural the rhythm will come and, eventually, the task will become easy to accomplish.

A little self-discipline is required when it comes to the time spent on a task. Above all, you must not let yourself be interrupted by all the distractions around you (screens come to mind)! It is often tempting to switch between several activities. But it's crucial to concentrate fully on one task before moving on to the next. It's a sure way to stay efficient and productive.

Don't forget to rest and don't overexert yourself in your work. It's true that once you get started, you feel like you're growing wings and could go on for hours, but that will only delay your tasks as exhaustion comes on suddenly. Instead, take a break and start again with just as much motivation.

If you're going on a trip, bookings can be particularly time-consuming, so make sure you get them taken care of as soon as possible. Last minute bookings are often made under stress and are prone to mistakes. Plus, you'll be sure to get the best rates. Finally, don't forget to consult travel guides to be aware of the destination's must-sees!

So, all it takes is a little organization and you're in business!