You're organized, generous and involved in your community. Whether a local cause, your kids' school and extracurricular activities or a favorite charity, you believin in giving back. Volunteering is important and we tip our hats to you, but when volunteer commitments pile up, it's easy to get submerged—especially when you're juggling family and career on top of them. It's time to stop treading water, take a deep breath and ask yourself, Am I volunteering too much? 

Check your Volunteer Progress Report 

• Did I complete all assignments? Check your calendar and take inventory of all your volunteer commitments over the past three months. Did you fulfill all your commitments on time with little stress? TIPS: Consider paring down your number of commitments or the number of organizations you support. Maybe commit to editing the school newsletter, but pass on the invitation to chair the school carnival committee this year.

• Did I use my time wisely? Working moms are always short on time—but are you spreading yourself too thin? Late nights sending emails, early mornings making phone calls and busy afternoons shuttling from activity to activity can leave you drained. TIPS: Look for volunteer jobs you can do on your lunch hour or with your family. For example, volunteer to update the class website or Pinterest page or bring your kids to weed the community garden on a Saturday. Coordinating parents and volunteers is quick and super easy using free online signup sheets with reminders by VolunteerSpot.  
  
  
• Did I understand the material? Do you love where you help out and how you're asked to contribute? Are you finding meaning in the time and resources you dedicate to your volunteer work? TIPS: Choose volunteer jobs that intersect with your passions and preferences. If you find baking fun and relaxing, make snacks for the teacher’s lounge and class party. If you’re sporty, help coach the soccer team. Do you love to read with your kids? Hold a book drive with your friends and co-workers and donate the books to a family shelter.

• Did I contribute to discussions and activities? Did you find time to be involved where your kids can learn from your generosity? TIPS: Introduce your kids to the important values of giving back and helping others by talking about where and why you’re spending your volunteer time. When practical, bring them with you and involve them, too.

• Did I respect others and behave appropriately? Are you on-time and mentally present for your volunteer job? TIPS: Clarify the location and start-time of your shift and turn off your cell phone while volunteering. It’s so hard to say no sometimes, but if your volunteer commitments can’t receive your full attention, it’s time to take a break.