I often joke with my best girlfriend that I need a few extra hours in the day. Like, a 25-hour day would be a real dream come true. Seven extra hours a week would do me a real solid in checking off my to-do list and keeping up with my crew.
But since I only get that one day a year – hey there, fall time adjustment – I have resorted to a few mom hacks that daily gift me those extra moments I so desire.
You’re mega curious, right?
These aren’t the run-of-the-mill “just tidy up when you’re done in the kitchen to save time later” type of hacks. Those make sense in theory, but when the baby is covered in carrot puree and the preschooler needs a bandage and the laundry just beeped, well, kitchen clean-up falls in priority.
I’ve got REAL mom hacks that, at least for me, have helped create a more peaceful day. So, my friend, in my constant quest to simplify my life, I’m gifting you a handful of ideas to simplify yours too.
Recycle your outfits
If you happen to see me two days in a row, you will most likely see me in the same clothes. That’s right, I wear the same outfit two days in a row, pending major spills and spit-up. For all you clean freaks, don’t worry, I do put on fresh undies daily. I’m talkin’ shirt, pants, shoes, and the like.
Create a "Power Three" to-do list
Before I go to bed each night, I jot down my “Power Three.” This is my essential to-do list for the following day. It consists of the must-dos. Nothing else. For example, today was renew AAA, text a friend about getting our kids to the same summer camp, and fold the basket of laundry I’ve been tripping over for a few days. If I get other things done, it’s icing on the cake. A Power Three keeps me focused and less overwhelmed. I’m a big fan!
Serve breakfast for dinner
Twice a week, breakfast is on the menu for dinner. Breakfast is easy, everyone loves it, and it’s on the cheaper side when it comes to groceries. Plus, there are so many choices – waffles, quiche, scrambled eggs, pancakes, eggs Bennie, egg casseroles, breakfast bagel sandwiches, breakfast quesadillas, smoothie bowls, oatmeal, Greek yogurt parfaits, eggs-in-the-hole, protein shakes, hashes, French toast… we rarely run out of ideas!
Pay an older sibling to babysit
As I type, my 9-year-old is “babysitting” his little brother. I offered him $3 for an hour of his time and he jumped at the chance. This is a win all-around:
- He earns money – and he is always saving for something
- My little one learns to be loved and comforted by someone other than Mama and thus their bond grows
- My oldest learns responsibility in a safe environment – I’m just one room away.
To ensure a smooth hour, prior to my “departure” we outline what activities they will do together and what warrants a check-in with me. This has gone so well recently I’m convinced I’ve got the next “manny” on my hands!
Assign laundry days
Everyone in my family has their own laundry basket and their own laundry day. At the beginning of that day, they pop their pile of dirty clothes in the washer, switch it to the dryer by lunchtime, and fold and put it all away before bed. It’s all done in one day! Now the only laundry I get behind on is my own. And yes, it’s even this way with my toddler. Granted, I help, but he’s learning the routine, and in a few years will be able to manage this chore without much assistance.
More peaceful days are better for us all
Lower that heart rate, simplify your day, and become a proponent of NOT getting it all done. That’s a pie in the sky ideal. Do enough. Do your best. Call it a day, and sit down with a good book and a cup of tea. Put your feet up and write that Power Three list. Today is done and you’ve done well.
