Stop Having To Wait Too Long
Usually when we run errands, we think they will get done over our lunch hour. We parents are often rushing throughout the day, so we always errands to get over with as soon as possible.
The truth is often those small things that we have to do end up eating up at least half of the day, we end up not having done anything else. Going to the doctor, sending mail through the post office or having your driver's license renewed have now become tasks we need to put aside at least for 3 hours.
Well, maybe not anymore. Think about the following suggestions to shorten those waiting times and be able to accomplish so much more:
Doctor's Office
Always try to ask for the first appointment of the day. There's no line at all and being the first always makes you avoid a point when the doctor has fallen really far behind. There's still always some chance the doctor will start the day a little bit later than usual so you may have to plan for those few extra minutes you will have to wait. That's when you tend to some unfinished business like writing thank-you cards or reading up an article you found but haven't quite finished yet in your favorite magazine.
DMV
Do some checking beforehand. Can you renew your driver's license online? If you really have to be there in person, can you download and fill up some forms before you get there? Check out different locations – maybe some of them complete renewals faster than others. And always avoid going during your lunch break, that's always a peak time.
Movie Theater
Do you really have to be among the first people to see a movie? Maybe it would be better if you didn't go on opening weekend. On opening day, you'll most likely spend more time in line and still get a crummy seat. You can try buying tickets a few hours in advance and look around the mall for a while. Or try purchasing and printing your tickets online. And finally, think about bringing your own snacks which will save you both time and money.
Grocery Store
Choose a non-peak time to go. That's usually a Monday or a Tuesday before 4 pm and a little after 6 pm. Days you really have to avoid are the weekends and Fridays through Sundays. Leave the kids at home, whenever possible. Prepare a list of items you need to buy and stock up on non-perishables.
Bank
Take advantage of online banking. It will take about 30 minutes to set up your accounts, but way much less to get your transactions done. With online banking, you can pay all your bills in one sitting at the very comfort of your home or office. If some of your monthly payments don't fluctuate, maybe it's time you set up an automatic payment plan.
Post Office
Try using the Automated Postal Machines. Almost no one uses them while lots of people wait in line. You can take care of most of the jobs you'd go to the counter for. Sending letters and packages, even certified mail can be done with these machines. If you're shipping packages and you know how much they weigh, print postage on your home printer and arrange for home pickup through USPS.
Hairdresser
Try to go first thing in the morning, but be prepared to stay long in the parlor. This is one chore you really should not be rushing anyway.
Outlet Stores
Go on a weekday afternoon. That's when these stores are least crowded. Once you're in, pick up as many clothes to try on as the store allows you to bring into the fitting room. Never go on long holiday weekends unless you're really hoping to catch a sale item. Bring a friend who is willing to fetch things for you in different sizes and return the favor next time.