These days we are always on the run and out of time. On the other hand we seem to be waiting on someone or something all the time as well. Wouldn't it make sense to use those "down or waiting times" to get little things done that would otherwise subtract from your few precious moments off. The following simple ideas can safe you time, money and reduce stress.

Do them anywhere where you have to wait. Please don't try them while driving. A major traffic jam that will force you to remain in one spot for several hours is fair game.

Write your Menu Plan for the week and write your Grocery list.

This little chore is annoying and time consuming. By planning ahead you can safe money and time. It's been proven by multiple marketing research firms that you can cut your grocery bill by at upwards of $200 a Year by planning ahead. An important point is to stick to your list. Bypass those last minute impulse buys and safe time by getting in and out quickly.

Make further Appointments as needed

This may sound ironic or even a little odd, but why not make those other Appointments while you are waiting. Combine being on hold with "being on hold". Make sure not to waste several days by grouping Appointments in the same Area in the same day. This way you can get everything out of the way in one wash up.

Brainstorm and make a to do list...

Lists, lists and more lists. Thousands of People in making lists. Why you might ask if you are not into making those lists and see them as yet another waste of time. The Answer is that it helps out those of us that are scattered brained or their mind is on several different subjects and projects at the same time. This way, You can stay organized and plan ahead. It helps to know what you already have in your household (DVD's, Music, Books are collected by Family and yourself) and what is still needed or wanted. It is also amazing how often you can think of a great Christmas or Birthday Present when you don't need it right then and there only to forget about it later. Here is your chance to have the shopping for gifts already well in hand.

Stuck at home on the phone, clean out your junk drawer.

Admit it, you have one of those drawers at home to where everything under the sun goes into. If you are stuck on the phone, this is the perfect job that may never get done otherwise. Why not clean it out and you may find those keys you lost month ago.

Matching up those socks.

Another fantastic being on hold on the phone job. Still missing that yellow sock from your Daughter? Why not get the basket of socks and match them all up. Remember to use the left over socks for sock puppets or give them to your pet.

Write those needed letters to friends and family.

This one you can do anywhere you have a surface to write on. Are you overdue to write that once a month or year letter to Great Aunt Sue in Montana or the account of your last Meeting to your best friend Beth in NY. Here is your time to do so, that is if you still use the art of writing postal letters.

Meditate

No need to feel selfish. Why not use the time to meditate? Even 5 minutes daily can reduce your stress levels.

Pre-write Christmas, Birthday or other special Cards

You can safe money by purchasing the cards in the off season and safe time and stress later by writing the standard greetings ahead of time. Sign them and have them stashed way with matching Envelopes and stamped for sending or plain for giving times.

Enjoy those simple tips and try them out, next time you are forced to wait again.