Finish a step with one hand while starting the next step with the other hand. Go ahead and splurge on attractive cleaning tools. You'll be more likely to use them. Put supplies in a bucket to carry from room to room. If something is not dirty, don't clean it.
Vertical surfaces collect dirt much slower than horizontal surfaces.
Give children responsibility for putting away their belongings. Provide a large box or basket to make it easier. Have a challenge to see who in the family can do their job the quickest and with the best quality. The winner doesn't have to clean the next week and gets to be the judge. Keep up with cleaning all year rather than exhausting yourself right before a major holiday or family event.