Everything is moving super fast these days. Our culture has left no meaning to the saying, "Patience is a virtue". In the hustle and bustle of today's society, are you stopping to smell the roses?

There aren't enough hours in the day to get all the things done we've hastily jotted down on our 'to do list' and slipped underneath the magnet on the refrigerator the night before.

We wake with a start every morning, rush through our morning routine,making sure the husband and children are organized, finish getting ourselves ready and then off to work we go.

The fast pace doesn't stop there. Traffic is crazy, deadlines at work are approaching and just when you thought it couldn't get any worse, What's for dinner?!

So, before things get to out of hand, here are some tips to help slow things down just a bit:

1. Savor the quiet time.
Enjoy the quietness of the house after everyone's gone to bed or wake earlier in the mornings than the rest of the family. The peaceful yet familiar environment will allow you to think more clearly. There are no distractions.Feel honored, this is your time. Enjoy a chapter in that book you've been promising yourself you'd start reading.

2. Be Proactive
If you've been preparing clothes, lunches and other items needed to start the day in the mornings, try doing it the night before. This can save 30 to 45 minutes of valuable time in the mornings. Allow the kids to help. Placing socks, shoes and outfits in one area. No more, "I can't find my shoes!".

3. Take Your Breaks
Don't miss your morning, lunch, or afternoon breaks. Although you think you can't afford to take a break when working, you can't afford not to. Breaks are almost like power naps. You only need a few minutes and it's amazing how refreshed you'll be.

4. Pull Out The Crock Pot
Steer clear of the fast food restaurants. The crock pot was an awesome invention. Invest some time in researching crock pot recipes. This will save time and money and provide way more nutrition than those fast food burgers and fries.

5. Do Something For You
At the days end, treat yourself. Don't just hop in the shower and hop out. Light a few scented candles. Run a hot bubble bath. Slip in and let the relaxing warm water and candlelight wash away all the events of the day.

There is no exact science when it comes to developing methods or ideas that will make life easier, less stressful and more enjoyable. But sometimes, the little things make all the difference in the world.