It doesn't make much sense, does it? We live in a generation who has every time saving device known to man. We have vehicles that take us where we need to go in a fraction of the amount of time it would take to walk. We have instant everything, automatic washers, and fast food. Yet we are so rushed that we often don't have any time left for ourselves. Why are we so rushed and what can we do to free up some time to spend doing things we enjoy?

Work is a necessity, and will always take up the bulk of a person's day, unless they happen to be independently wealthy. There may not be anything you can do to reduce the amount of hours you have to work. But then again, maybe there is. For instance, are you driven to do more, achieve more, earn more, and reach the top? If so, you might be putting in more hours than you really need to pay the bills and live a comfortable life. You may need to lighten up a bit.

If you're working an average 40 or so hour week and still don't have any time left for yourself, it's time to take a look at your life. Is housework or childcare the thing that is eating up your extra time? Working mothers are some of the hardest working people in all of history. If you have to work all day and then come home to cooking dinner, nurturing children, and keeping the laundry done (not to mention basic cleaning!) then you are going to be running yourself ragged! Is there any chance you can get your spouse to help with some of the work?

There are ways to streamline your at home chores. For instance, get in the habit of putting something in the crockpot before going to work. A chicken or roast with some potatoes and veggies can be cooking into a delectable dinner while you are at work. If you must resort to using fast foods some, do think about nutrition and choose the healthier options. Also, eliminating clutter from your home can streamline your cleaning routine. For instance, having fewer clothes means having less laundry.

Attitudes can make a big difference, too, when it comes to freeing up time. Are you motivated to keep up with the neighbors, or are you pursuing what is truly important to yourself? Trying to impress other people can be a big drain on your schedule. For instance, is your beautifully groomed yard something you enjoy or is it really for them? Eliminate the extras if you don't enjoy them.

Another way in which we lose time is when we volunteer for activities or service we really don't have any desire to do. Either we feel obligated or we want someone to think well of us. To have more time for the things in life that really matter, we should think carefully before volunteering to make three dozen cookies for the school bake sale or taking on that cub scout troop. Service is wonderful, if our motives are right. Sometimes the right answer is "No."