10 Time Management Hacks for Sandwich Generation Moms

It can be hard to look at an endless list of errands and tasks and feel like you can actually tackle them all. Instead of thinking you have to do them all at the same time, rate each task in terms of urgency. Break down tasks into manageable steps and focus on completing the most important ones first.

Even if you only do a couple of things on the list, the crucial ones are still addressed first. Yes, that means it's totally fine to let putting away the laundry fall to the bottom of the list.

Do you notice that when you're scheduling your son's dental check-up you have to look at your calendar? 

Instead of making just one call to the dentist, make all your calls during this time. From the bank, internet provider, and plumber to your father's pharmacy, group these calls together and do them in one go. This will help save time because you don't have to open the calendar again and again.

From school, work, and medication routine to soccer practices and dance recitals, it's hard to keep track of where everyone is and what they need. Appointments get rescheduled. Lessons get canceled. 

Create a schedule to keep the family up to date. Display a large physical calendar in the kitchen or living room that everyone can see and update. Or, if you prefer, create an online schedule that everyone can access on their phones.

Although a Sandwich mom is the ultimate project manager, you don't have to do everything yourself. Everyone needs to pitch in to keep the ship sailing smoothly.

Every family member can adopt helpful habits to keep the household organized. Some examples include loading their dirty dishes into the dishwasher, putting dirty clothes in the hamper, adding to the grocery list when something is almost empty, rinsing the sink after brushing their teeth, and throwing empty cartons and jars in the recycling. Encourage the message of "Many hands make light work."

More from CafeMom: 7 Ways To Make Your Home More Accessible

Sharing the load is essential. When you delegate tasks to other household members, it allows you to focus on the things that only you can do. Make a list of daily tasks and let family members choose what they want to do. If two people want to do the same thing, have them rotate on a weekly or monthly basis.

No is a complete sentence. As Sandwich moms, we already do so much that we often justify doing "one more little thing." But often, that "one little thing" is what breaks the camel's back.

Establish clear boundaries between work and personal life. Communicate with colleagues and family about your availability. Be realistic. If you think you don't have time to do it, then you don't. Be firm and stick to those boundaries.

Being a Sandwich mom means you are at the heart of balancing the emotional needs of everyone in the family. Providing emotional support to children and parents and navigating family dynamics and conflicts can take a toll on your mental health.

You have 10 minutes to yourself. Do you get ahead on meal planning? Fold the laundry or check some e-mails? All of those are wrong answers.

Whether it's a short walk, meditation, or a few moments of quiet, you need to take breaks to recharge and take care of your well-being. Allocate time for self-care. When your mind and body are functioning optimally, you will be able to focus and manage tasks better. It saves time and improves your health in the long run.

Simplify meal preparation by planning and preparing meals in advance. Why cook two nights in a row when you can cook once and have enough leftovers for lunch and dinner the next day?

Another tip is to batch-cook stews, soups, and casseroles, and freeze them for later. Just reheat and serve for those super busy days that will invariably happen. 

Consider shopping for groceries online and having them delivered. It saves a trip to the store and prevents impulse buys.

Not all families can afford to outsource. If it is feasible for you, however, consider paying someone to clean, provide home care for your parents, prepare meals, grocery shop, and/or pick up and drop off kids. This can free up valuable time that can be better spent on other priorities.

Unexpected challenges are bound to come up. Kids get sick. Aging parents have difficult days. Babysitters cancel. Don't be too hard on yourself if things don't go according to plan. Being a Sandwich mom is physically draining and emotionally taxing. Rolling with the punches and staying adaptable will help you thrive, not just survive.