With a new season approaching, there is no question that there seems to be a never-ending list of decisions we need to make.

How can I get my kids ready for school?  How do I help support my kids through their virtual classes? Do I have a clean mask for when I go out? What can we cook for dinner tonight without having to run to the grocery store? Decision fatigue is real, and it’s no mystery that this pandemic is making it even harder on us.

Here are a few practices that can help minimize decision fatigue and make life right now a little bit easier:

• Set up daily routines to eliminate some of the burdens of decision making. Layout outfits for your kids the night before. Here is a great blog that shares storage solutions that make it easier for the whole family.
• Keep a running grocery list. Having a list has many benefits, like keeping you on track and preventing additional trips to the store. Check out these Fall Appetizers that help kick off the Holiday Season and add them to your next grocery list.
• Get groceries delivered or do curbside pickup. It is so nice having one less thing to worry about. Spend the extra time at home with the family hearing about what the kids learned in school that day!
• Plan meals in advance. At the beginning of each week, take a few minutes to write your menu on a chalkboard. This will allow the whole family to be involved, and everyone can get excited about Taco Tuesday. Dream Dinners has a delicious menu that will make this step even easier!
• Stock the pantry and fridge with grab and go snacks. When the kids get a break from learning, they will know exactly what their options are.
• Build-in small buffers of time throughout the day to catch your breath. If it takes longer than you expected to accomplish an errand or get the kids started on their virtual classes, you can absorb that buffer into your day. Otherwise, it’s a great opportunity to drink some water, take some deep breaths, and regroup mentally.

Do you have tips and tricks for decision fatigue that we didn’t mention? We’d love to hear them! Let us know your strategies for reducing stress during this challenging time, by commenting on a post or sending us a direct message via Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter. We are all in this together, and we hope you and your family are staying safe!