Scheduling Chaos

Most people will say they their lives are a state of constant chaos. Trying to figure out how to fit everything in and wishing there were more hours in the day. I recently felt this way and decided to take control, I was tired of feeling like I was a hamster spinning on a wheel and never getting anywhere. I created a schedule that I call my Scheduled Chaos and it has been an absolute GODSEND! I hope it can help you schedule your own chaotic life and maybe even leave a little extra time to enjoy some of  life's simple pleasures - whatever that may be...

Start by creating a list with two columns, one for tasks and chores and the other for activities. In the tasks and chores list add all chores, whether they be walking the dog, cleaning bathrooms or taking out the trash. In the activities column add all activities you would like to accomplish, these should be things you want to do for your health or for fun. This could include a date night, skiing or a simple workout. Once you complete your columns label each  task with a (D) for daily, (E) for every other day, (W) for weekly and (A/R) for as required. Label your activities by adding the persons name to which the activity relates.

Step two is to create your calendar. Print off or bring up a calendar on your computer. Start by filling out your work schedules, if possible use different colors to highlight each entry on your calendar to make it more legible.  The next step is to add things such as appointments, childcare and preschool/school hours. Enter re-occurring dates such as garbage/recycling days as a reminder.

Step three is the fun part! Sheduling the chaos. Go back to your list of tasks and activities. Depending on work schedules, you will have to make a decision on how to divide the tasks. For us it's easy, we both work the same type of schedule and the same amount of hours so we split them equally. Have a discussion with your partner and decide how you want to divide the tasks. Once you determine this you can start entering them on the schedule - along with the person responsible. For daily tasks and as required, simply enter them somewhere around the calendar as a reminder.

Step four. Once you have added all your tasks you can find places to fit in your activities. For example we decided we would like to ski twice a week. We coordinated times with our sitter and found spots when we could fit it in on our time off. Add all your desired activities the same way.

Once your schedule is complete make sure there are no conflicts and give it a roll! It's important that everyone is committed to make it work. Revisit the schedule every month and make the necessary changes here and there in order to make it work. It has been very successful for my family. We now have time to do the things we love and we are clear on each others expectations. I hope it works for you!