By Janet M. Taylor
Sometimes is it hard, even difficult to get out of the house on time.
When you have children it may seem like an impossible task.
Below are a few tips that will help you and your family plan a smooth morning routine.
1) Have a set bedtime
Not only should you have a set bedtime but avoid watching television before you fall asleep. Get in the habit of reading a book or use the last 30 minutes as your quiet time.
2) Prepare the night before
Preparing for your day the night before can save you valuable time in the morning.
Before going to bed and before your quiet time decide what you are going to wear. Next, pack the bag you will carrying and make sure your keys are where you can find them.
3)Have a set wake up time
Establish a set wake-up time. I get up at 5am every day so I will have time to read, pray and exercise. Start your morning stress-free by not getting out of bed, getting dressed and rushing out the door.
4) Get dressed before going downstairs 
The experts say to get dressed before going downstairs and those that live in apartments would get dressed before
entering the kitchen. If this works for you great, especially if it helps you save needed time in the morning. Also if you have very young children sometimes it is better to dress them after they have eaten their meal.
5) Simple breakfast
If you have to leave the house very early, eat something that is easy to prepare. There are many varieties of healthy foods available that you can eat and enjoy and save time preparing them.
6) Build in extra time
Build in an extra 15 to 30 minutes to give yourself time to do everything you need done (check voicemail, email) before you head out the door.
7) Leave the house on time
Decide what time you need to leave the house in order to arrive at your destination on time. Then work backwards. If you have be at work or your appointment by 9am and it takes your 45 minutes to commute then make a goal to leave the house by 8am to allow for minor traffic delays.
Having a smooth routine will take time, so each day do one thing that will bring you closer to this goal. Think how happy you will be when you finally reach it.
