New Rural Sub here... Any tips to help improve my time?

Okay so I know it's going to come with time but I need to know any extra little things you do for yourself in the office which makes the route easier and more efficient!! Early this week I ran the first half, the next day I ran the second half. But jeezzzz when I ran the whole route I friggin flopped. They came to help me, I didn't leave the office until almost 12!!!! And THEN still wouldn't have made it back by 6:00... My regular did let me know I was actually doing awesome on time, it just doesn't feel that way because I left the office late (I was 30 mins behind where my regular wouldve been if they left the office at 12). So I know I'm not the worst but I'm FAR from the best.. far from even decent in my opinion. Any tips??

(Also I didn't miss any packages yayy!! or mail which I feel is really good especially since it's political season!)