Simple ways to save time

DETROIT – With only 24 hours in a day, how do you get everything done? These simple solutions are not only saving you time, but also helping you make the most out of the time you have. It takes more time to have a conversation on the phone, so just don't answer it.

"I almost never answer my cell phone," said Local 4's Rhonda Walker.

Most people will follow up with the reason for their call with a text message or leave a voicemail about what they're calling for. You can reply at your convenience.

"I try to communicate as much as possible with a text because you can do it anywhere," Walker said. "If you're in a waiting room, waiting for somebody who you're meeting for a lunch meeting or if you're getting your hair done."

And speaking of cell phones, try programming shortcuts in yours. You can save even just a few seconds rather than typing out e-mail addresses and phrases that you text all the time.

When it comes to social media, set a timer for browsing. You won't believe how fast 15 minutes goes by while you're looking at your friends' pictures and links.

"It can get out of hand," said Local 4 Associate Producer Sheree Calhoun. "So I have a kindle, also my personal cell phone, and every time there's an indicator that I have messages, I'm always looking. I'm always checking. There's always interesting things to look at so I just continue to click on pictures, look at status updates all day long."

If your microwave is dirty, don't waste time spraying harmful chemicals and scrubbing away food. Instead, just stick some lemons in water and steam away.

It's easy for your e-mail inbox to get cluttered, so take a moment and clean it out, for good. Never stress out when you open your inbox again.

"I had 2,700 e-mails in here a week ago that I just got rid of," said Local 4's Brandon Roux. "It's overwhelming. I rarely check them because there's too much!"

And lastly, make a to-do list, one that's easy to finish. Not only will it help you save time and get things done, but it'll help you feel accomplished.

"I like seeing everything written out and then I like crossing it off," explained Local 4's Sandra Ali. "It gives me that little sense of accomplishment."

Click here to find more time-savers for busy parents.