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In a Timely Manner - IDSR |
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by tracey  (February 2007) (rank 4th) |
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This advice is a follow up to my “I Did Something Right” or IDSR blog post HERE.
Being on time is one thing I am pretty good at. As a parent, getting my children to school and social functions on time is very important to
me. And being prompt at pick up time is equally so. It’s not always easy, and we have our days of running behind, but being prompt has become a part of family life that is almost second nature. I never thought too much about it, but since my IDSR post, I got to thinking about the ways in which I manage to get my children to cooperate in getting out the door in plenty of time for where we need to go and when.
The first step in being on time is having a routine. This is especially true when it comes to mornings. Getting the day started on the right foot is essential for a good day. And since every individual knows what they need to be responsible for (because it’s been clearly and consistently established) everyone can take charge of their responsibilities. When my kids aren’t being nagged by me, and they know what they need to do, they are much more likely to do it. They don’t like being told what to do a million times (who does?). Something else that’s a key element in our mornings is that no one sleeps in. Every minute counts in the mornings, and no one likes to feel rushed or scattered. By getting up at the same time everyday, we all know we have enough time to have a relaxing and efficient morning. Getting up and getting out at the same time everyday has helped to set our internal clocks and it makes it easier to maintain the routine.
The next step would be planning ahead. If there is a birthday party to be at on the weekend, I try to pick up the gift and wrap it before the day of the party. It’s not always easy to find that time earlier in the week but I find it’s worth the extra effort. Buying the present on the way to the party will almost always make me late. I have a “gift cupboard” too that works for last minute gift needs. I buy children’s gifts early (when they are on sale, etc) as to have them stock piled when I need them. It’s a big time saver. The same goes for snack for my child’s class. I always try to bake or buy them the day (or 2) before. It keeps me from running behind and feeling flustered.
The last step would have be the one key element that’s a little less tangible. It’s about a familial understanding. Everyone in our house knows that it is important and considerate to be on time so no one questions it. It is what is expected and appreciated at our house. My youngest daughter will attempt to test the issue sometimes by asking if she can be late for school and watch one more TV show. Of course, I never agree to it. And the only reason she asks is to see how consistent I’ll be. The understanding that being prompt is just a part of our lives, makes it rarely a struggle with our getting out the door to get somewhere on time. My family isn’t perfect and I am not a stickler (although I might sound like I am from this post) but when it comes to being timely, we’re pretty successful. And in this crazy world, it’s nice to have something about yourself you’re proud of. That’s what a “I Did Something Right” post is all about!
