The single most valuable resource in the world is time. No one can make more of it and each of us has a limited amount. So we need to use what we have well and save it where we can.

One of my best tricks for saving time is using the little bits of time that are all too easily wasted. You know what I mean. The 15 minutes when you are waiting for karate class or soccer practice to end. The 10 minutes while water is boiling for pasta. The 20 minutes while you wait for your perpetually late friend to show up. The 5 minutes before you have to rush out the door for work. Not huge blocs of time, but time that you can use well nonetheless.

I keep a handy list of quick little tasks that I can complete in these blocs of time. Everyone's list will differ, but here are some things that might fit on your list:

• loading/unloading the dishwasher (or doing the dishes in the sink by hand).
• shredding sensitive documents.
• sorting or folding or putting away laundry.
• paying a few bills online.
• filing.
• making the beds (or changing the sheets).
• cleaning the bathroom or kitchen sink.
• doing a quick pick up of a single room.
• making menus or lists for next week.
• writing a letter.
• making an appointment.
• planning menus and the resulting grocery lists.

The options are nearly endless. If you keep these tasks in mind (even make a list and post it somewhere), you can use your little blocs of time to eliminate these little tasks — leaving the bigger blocs free for your real priorities,