Not having to dig in a dirty sink for a pan you need, then having to clean it makes the day that much better.
By making sure all the dishes are either cleaned or in the dishwasher every morning, you don't have to spend an hour cleaning up a stockpile of dishes.
Chipping away at something a little at a time prevents you from getting completely overwhelmed. Having the dishwasher ready to load throughout the day will help you keep the sink empty because there is a spot to put all the dirty dishes away.
Have the kids load their own plates and utensils into the dishwasher! My kids love helping out with their own dishes.