Want to Minimize Chaos & Stress in the Mornings? Try This Clever Idea! by Ann Marie Patitucci

Tired of mornings being chaotic and rushed? I know I was! So I decided I needed a different approach. I created a checklist of morning chores for each of my boys and hung them on the wall. They’re four years apart, so my older son has more responsibilities – his checklist is longer. They have some items in common, though, such as brush your teeth and put your lunch box in your backpack. I even added “hug your brother,” inspired by a tip by contributor Joani Plenty (read her tip here).

Now when they wake up, they get right to work on their checklists. This change to our morning routine has had several positive outcomes:

• The boys are proud of themselves (especially my younger son!)
• We’re out the door on time
• Mornings are far less stressful – for all of us

How do you simplify your mornings?