I’ve been a work at home Mom for a little less than 5 years and we’ve had our ups and downs along the way but I’ve learned a lot about time management. So whither you’re working at home, at the office or just trying to manage your kids schedules I hope these tips can help you balance it all and make life more enjoyable and easier.

Choose a good planner

So I’ve gone through a few different planners and for the last 3 years I’ve found the perfect one for me! First off I tried the apps and calendars on my phone and well, I’m a paper girl. So having this planner to write down my grocery list, kids schedules, husband’s and my own work schedule and everything in between has been amazing. I like that I can see everything for the month as well as plan out my weeks one at a time.

Routine

I live for routines and so do my kids. They know what’s expected of them in the morning before school and I can get my little toddler ready while they’re getting ready. They also know when I work and what they can do during those times. So we have a good routine going where everyone knows what’s happening each day and what’s expected of them. Yes our routine gets out of wack when someone is sick, we’re going on vacation, etc but for most days, we’ve got it down. I recommend getting something set that works for you. If that’s getting up earlier than the kids so you can get a few things done, set it.

15 Minute Speed Cleaning

I’ve sure you’ve heard of this but now it’s time to implement it. it’s truly amazing what my kids can get done when they’re racing the timer. I’ve found it best to do this while I’m getting dishes done after dinner. That way I’m cleaning too and they’re helping out as well. I’ll set the timer and say “ready, set, go” and off we’ll go until the timer goes off. This is usually enough time to get the dishes in the dishwasher and the clean ones put away while the kids clean up the toys that were pulled out in the family room and the socks they took off when they got home.

Balance

This one takes practice and something I’m still working on but my best advise, know your limits and learn to say no. Don’t feel like you need to say no all the time but remember your family needs you first and being a working mom takes up a lot of your time. So finding a balance between work, taking care of the home and spending time with your kids is a necessity. Once you know your limits it will be a lot easier to know what tasks you can take on and what you need to say no to.

Don’t get overwhelmed or discouraged by being a working mom. It’s possible and hopefully you can find help when you need it. There are times when it’s important to ask for help and that’s ok. You’ve got this, and you’re doing a great job!