Do you still spend a good chunk of your time running errands? The phrase sometimes feels pretty old-fashioned, like something a 1950s housewife would do. But nearly everyone has things they need to do regularly or occasionally, from visiting the post office to picking up your dry cleaning. These tasks can be time-consuming and, if you drive or take public transport, expensive too. If you want to take back your time, you can cut down on these errands by modernizing them or getting rid of them all together. Have a look at these tips to stop running errands and start running your life.
Take Some of Your Tasks Online
We have the internet now. That means that you should be able to do at least some things online, instead of having to go out and do them. Lots of people shop online, so why not do some other tasks online too? If you have a PO box that you have to go and collect your mail from, switch it to a virtual PO box with a street address. The company will scan all your mail for you and put it online, so you never have to collect it again. See if your bank offers online banking so that you can do some of your banking tasks online instead of going to your nearest branch. They might also offer telephone banking.
Get Someone Else to Do Your Errands for You
What if someone else could run your errands for you? There’s no need to do everything yourself when there are handy services that will help you out. Some of these will come from individual companies. For example, your dry cleaning company might pick up and drop off your laundry for you. You can also find services that will do lots of different tasks for you, from picking up your prescriptions to returning items to the store for you. It will mean you’re paying for the service, but many people are willing to sacrifice some money if it means they get some of their time back.
Do Essential Errands in Batches
If you do have to run any errands, because they’re hard to avoid completely, don’t scatter them all over the place. If you plan ahead and do them all at the same time, you can save time and money. Make a list of the things you need to do and plan the most efficient route so that you can get them done as soon as possible. Then you won’t have to worry about them for the rest of the week, and you won’t have to make several trips.
Literally Run Your Errands
Another way to get the most from any errands you do have to run is to literally run them. Combine your workout and your errands by going for a run or perhaps a bike ride and doing essential tasks at the same time. It will keep you fit, and you’ll be productive. If you need to take anything with you or pick anything up, try taking a backpack with you.
You don’t have to waste all your time running errands. Cut them down or do them more efficiently to get your life back.