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Feeling overwhelmed by the never-ending to-do list that surrounds your life as a working mom? You’re not alone. One of the toughest lessons I learned after having my son and returning to work was that the things I used to effortlessly accomplish had become time-consuming challenges. As someone who thrives on organization and consistency, I’ve faced the chaos of toddlerhood head-on. If you’re looking for a place to start, keep reading!
This post aims to:
- Provide 10 simple ways to regain control of your organization.
- Recommend products that have helped me focus and spend more quality time with my family.
- Establish easy habits to consistently stay organized without consuming your entire day.
1. Plan Your Week on Sundays.
Create a weekly plan focusing on one area, such as meal planning, workouts, cleaning, or organizing. Tackle one section at a time to build a consistent routine.
2. Maintain a Calendar/Planner.
Opt for a physical calendar or planner to visually track family activities and set weekly goals. Consider a few popular options for 2024 linked below:
3. Wake Up Before the Kids.
Find just 20-30 minutes in the morning to collect yourself, work out, shower, or enjoy a quiet moment. It sets a positive tone for the day.
4. Implement the 2-Minute Rule.
Handle tasks that take 2 minutes or less immediately. This mindset reduces the burden of small tasks and makes larger jobs seem less daunting.
5. Utilize Storage Solutions for Toys.
Organize with storage containers or systems, especially for a busy toddler’s toys. Target’s Brightroom line and Amazon offer budget-friendly options. Here are a few of my go-to storage systems specifically for toy storage:
For storage containers, I tend to prefer rope weave baskets for toy storage as they’re a bit more flexible and structured bins for areas like the kitchen and closets. Here are a few of my recommendations from Amazon:
6. Declutter Closets.
Regularly clean out closets to avoid accumulating unnecessary clutter, leading to a less overwhelming environment.
7. Delegate Tasks.
Discuss and split household tasks between spouses based on preferences and strengths, helping both partners stay organized while working full-time.
8. Evening Closing Shift.
Implement a brief “closing shift” after the kids go to bed to tidy up the kitchen, start the dishwasher, and pick up toys. It takes only about 20 minutes but makes a significant difference.
9. Grocery Pickup Convenience.
Take advantage of grocery pickup services like Target to save time and money. Plan your shopping ahead to minimize in-store browsing.
10. Give Yourself Grace.
Remember, parenting and working full-time are challenging. Give yourself grace and focus on the well-being of your kids. Treat yourself to some well-deserved relaxation.
In conclusion, navigating the daily challenges of parenting and work is tough, but by incorporating these practical tips, you can make each day a bit more manageable. Remember, you’re doing your best, and that’s something to be proud of. Cheers to another day successfully conquered!
