As moms, every day can feel overwhelming. How can we get everything done while still having time for ourselves? Is that even possible? Well, you can stop worrying! It is entirely possible, and here are ten strategies and tools to keep you organized and have time for yourself.
Time Management Strategies For Moms
If you need help optimizing your time, these strategies were created for you. It doesn’t matter if you work full-time, have your own business, digitally or physically, or are a stay-at-home mom. Anyone can benefit from these strategies!
The Time-Blocking Method
If you work from home or need dedicated time for tasks, try the time-blocking method. With time-blocking, you will divide your day into blocks of time. To get the most out of this method, it’s helpful if you have a calendar, whether physical or digital.
Block out times of your day with a task that needs to be done. Doing this will help you see everything that needs to be done, limit distractions, and optimize your time by ensuring everything is done.
ABC To-Do List
If you need more flexibility than the time-blocking method, consider creating an ABC priority to-do list. Create three columns. In the first column, list tasks that need to be done that day and order them in priority. In the second column, list everything that needs to be done that week. In the third column, list everything that needs to be done that month.
This method can be helpful for those who have ADHD, as this allows you to see all the tasks that need to be done in a month at a glance.
Limit Multitasking
Did you know that multitasking can be more harmful than productive? You are divided between different projects, so you’re not able to give your 100% to either. Instead, you’re giving each 50%.
However, it can be challenging to get things done as a mom without multitasking. So, limit it whenever possible. But when you need to multitask, make sure you’re okay with the task not being perfect.
If it’s a random daily task, multitasking may be okay. If it’s an important task where you can’t afford to make a mistake, don’t multitask!
Set Reminders
Sometimes, we can get carried away with tasks, or some may slip our minds entirely. So, set reminders on your phone for essential duties. Setting reminders will not only ensure that you remember the task but also free up some brain room so you don’t have to worry about remembering the task.
Establish a Routine
Routine is so important as a mom! Creating a routine is the best way to ensure that the daily tasks that need to be done every day are done! But this doesn’t need to be just for you. It can be for your family too.
Waking up at the same time every day, setting out an outfit the night before, and even doing homework right after school can give your children a headstart with time management.
However, sometimes if you get stuck in the routine, your day-to-day can get boring. To fix this, try and do something different during your dedicated task. Don’t make the same thing for lunch every day, or don’t do the same workout every day. Mixing up your routine in small ways will add some spice to your daily routine and limit burnout.
Plan Your Week Ahead
Planning your week is a great way to hold yourself accountable for your tasks. Seeing all the tasks you need to do may be overwhelming, but just take it one day at a time! Don’t focus on the upcoming days, just do what needs to be done today, and you’ll get through it.
Time Management Tools For Moms
If you need some tools to help you organize and manage your time, consider these four tools. You can access them on a desktop or download the apps on your phone. These tools have been highly recommended by moms who are virtual assistants – people who digitally organize businesses!
Google Calendar
Google Calendar is an excellent time management tool that you can use for you and your family. If you try the time-blocking method, try it with Google Calendar! You can also share the calendar with your husband and kids so they can see the schedule and add events to it as well.
This calendar is a great tool to use even if you’re not very tech-savvy! It’s easy and very simple to learn. It will help you stay on track with all your events, appointments, and tasks.
Trello
If the ABC priority list sounds like the time management strategy you want to implement, consider getting Trello. It’s a fantastic project management tool that many business owners use daily. It’s very user-friendly and straightforward to use. Create lists and place all of your tasks within the lists!
Toggl
Toggl is an excellent tool to use if you want to see which tasks are taking the longest amounts of time. Start the timer, organize it by task, and see how long it takes! It’s straightforward and user-friendly but more intuitive than your phone timer.
Excel Or Google Sheets
If you love to see everything at a glance, consider using Excel or Google Sheets, You can create your ABC priority list in this software, or you can use it to help you manage finances or contact information. Anything that takes up too much brain space, you can leave it in these organization sheets.
Conclusion
If you’re feeling overwhelmed with keeping track of not only your life but your family’s life, it’s possible to find a way to organize your calendar! Try time-blocking or the ABC method. Don’t multitask and set reminders!
Consider downloading Google Calendar, Trello, or Google Sheets to help you stay organized and on top of your to-do list.
