Being a mom is a rewarding but challenging role. Balancing family, work, household tasks, and personal well-being can often leave you feeling overwhelmed. However, with effective planning techniques and the right mindset, you can reclaim control over your busy life.
Planning Tips For Busy Moms
In this blog post, we’ll explore ten valuable planning tips to help busy moms stay organized, focused, and find more joy in their daily routines.
I’ve coached thousands of women on how to plan better, and I personally use these tools in my life, too. With every season, there are variations, but at the core is the list of 10 planning tips that you can take with you and use for the best results.
1. Define your priorities for this season of life
Your priorities will vary depending on your family’s unique circumstances and values. Take some time to reflect and identify what truly matters to you during this particular phase of life. Is it spending quality time with your children, focusing on career advancement, or taking care of your own well-being? Knowing your priorities will guide your planning efforts and help you allocate time and energy accordingly. By aligning your actions with your priorities, you’ll create a sense of purpose and fulfillment.
In the words of Tony Robbins, “you can’t have a plan for your day until you have a plan for your life.”
2. Use a digital calendar and sync it to your phone and computer
Digital calendars are an essential part of modern motherhood. I prefer Google Calendar, but any digital calendar will work. They provide convenience and flexibility, allowing you to access and update your schedule on various devices. Syncing your calendar across multiple platforms ensures you never miss an important event or appointment. Make it a habit to input all family activities, work commitments, school functions, and personal appointments into your digital calendar promptly. Color-coding different categories can also help you visually distinguish between various activities.
3. Schedule time to plan every week
Dedicate a specific time each week to plan for the upcoming days. This planning session will serve as a valuable investment of your time and energy. Set aside uninterrupted moments to review your calendar, update tasks, and strategize for the week ahead. This can be early morning or after the kids go to bed or when they’re sleeping or in school. It is crucial, however, that you plan intentionally, which requires brain power and a bit of quiet time, so do what you can to make that happen. This practice will help you stay organized, anticipate challenges, and make the most of your time.
4. Anticipate obstacles
While planning, it’s important to anticipate potential obstacles that may disrupt your schedule. Recognize common challenges such as unexpected events, delays, or sick days. By having contingency plans in place, you’ll be better prepared to handle any disruptions that arise. For example, if your child falls ill, have a backup childcare plan or reschedule non-essential activities. Same for childcare. Being proactive and adaptable will help you navigate unexpected situations with greater ease.
5. Schedule the results you want to create (instead of the activity)
Instead of merely listing tasks and activities on your calendar, focus on scheduling the results you want to create. For instance, rather than scheduling “cleaning the house,” specify the desired outcome, such as “a clean and organized living room.” This approach helps you stay focused on the end goal and motivates you to complete tasks efficiently. Break down larger projects into smaller, actionable steps and assign them specific time slots on your calendar. By visualizing the desired results, you’ll feel a greater sense of accomplishment as you check them off your list.
6. Schedule self care
As a busy mom, taking care of yourself is essential. Many moms overlook self care, thinking it’s a luxury they can’t afford. However, prioritizing self care is crucial for maintaining physical and mental well-being, which ultimately benefits both you and your family. Schedule regular self care activities, such as exercise, reading, journaling, or engaging in hobbies, and treat them as non-negotiable appointments. Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup. Taking time for yourself replenishes your energy, reduces stress, and allows you to show up as your best self for your loved ones.
7. Take an educated guess at how long something will take
When planning your day, estimate the time needed for each task or activity. While it may not be possible to predict precisely, taking an educated guess helps you allocate time more effectively. Consider your past experiences with similar tasks and take into account any potential interruptions or challenges that may arise. Be mindful of potential distractions or unexpected circumstances that might extend the duration of certain tasks. By assigning realistic time frames, you’ll have a better sense of how to structure your day and avoid feeling overwhelmed.
8. Don’t overplan
While it’s crucial to have a plan, avoid overloading your schedule. Overplanning can lead to stress and a constant feeling of being behind. Leave some breathing room in your schedule to account for unexpected events, relaxation, and downtime. Embrace the concept of “less is more” when it comes to planning. Prioritize essential tasks and activities, and be mindful of your limitations. Remember, quality is more important than quantity, and giving yourself the space to breathe will improve your overall well-being.
9. Don’t underplan
On the other hand, underplanning can result in inefficiency and missed opportunities. While leaving room for flexibility is important, it’s equally crucial to have a structured plan in place. Aim for a balance by creating a realistic schedule that accommodates your priorities and allows for flexibility. This ensures that you have a clear direction while still having the freedom to adapt when necessary. Regularly review your plan and make adjustments as needed to stay on track with your goals.
10. Manage your mindset
Your mindset plays a significant role in your planning success. One of the biggest challenges my clients have (that my guess is you can relate to) is not wanting to do what they planned. For example, if you have scheduled to go to a workout class at 10am, you can expect that at 9:45am when it’s time to leave, you’re not going to feel like it. This is due to “resistance in the transition” (i.e.: it’s hard to shift momentum in the moment). This is where you either sink or swim when it comes to your plan. The secret to swimming is mindset (it’s not in the actual plan). When you have an empowered, confident, motivated mindset, then you will take action and do the things you planned, even when you don’t feel like it.
