I have always been a person who thrives with routine and healthy habits. At different times throughout my life and especially after I became a mom, it was challenging to find healthy habits that were effective, meaningful, simple and sustainable. I wanted to write about some general tips for habits and routines as a mom, and also some specifics about my own habits and routines.
Identifying my purpose with these habits and routines was my first step. Selecting the most meaningful and effective habits or routines to add in was essential. It was important and could be challenging to find the balance between taking on too much or too little. Choosing a specific time of day and frequency was very helpful for me.
1. Make Goals At the Start of The Week
This sets you up for success. I make goals in 4 categories. Parenting, work, spiritual and physical. I usually only do one goal for each category and try to keep it specific. This gives me something to focus on for the week, but narrows it down to make it more attainable. This is so beneficial to encourage growth in various different areas of life. It is also nice to look back on your progress week after week. Btw – it’s okay if your goal repeats from one week to the next, some things take longer than a week to achieve!
2. Make Daily To-Do Lists
Every morning I wake up, get some coffee and plan out my day a little bit. It doesn’t need to be hour by hour detailed, but just an idea to keep you on track. I usually write down 2-3 things I need to accomplish and then a few other things I would like to accomplish. It feels good to check something off the list, but it also prevents you from being too ambitious and thinking you’ll get 20 things done in one day.
3. Set Yourself Up for Success the Next Day by Prepping
They say a good morning is made the night before – or something like that. Seriously though, prepping for the next day really does help! I like to set out clothes for my daughter or I if I know we will have to get up and out early. I also will pack snacks, toys or other thighs we may need in a bag for the next day. Even if you set 5 minutes aside to get things ready for the next day, it can make a big difference.
4. Add Something in Your Daily Routine for YOU Every Day
Having something enjoyable and relaxing for YOU every day can also set you up for success. This can help ground you and give you peace for your day. It can also keep your mind clear and relieve the stress of the day. For me this looks like drinking my coffee and reading my daily devotional/bible. This is a positive habit in the morning that sets me up to have a good day and be intentional throughout it.
5. Movement
Taking care of your body will help all areas of your life. If you feel better, you will do better. Try to get some movement if not daily, every other day. Movement doesn’t have to be a long workout, it can be a 10 minute walk. And it doesn’t have to look the same every day, as long as you’re moving your body you will feel the benefit.
6. Clean Your Space
Keep your space clean and it will help keep your mind clear! I like to do this every evening. I clean up my area and make sure everything is neat. This sets me up for success the next day. I also like to make sure my phone/electronics are cleaned and organized. This means getting to missed notifications and things like that too. Make sure you’re taking care of yourself physically and keeping up on hygiene that makes you feel good.
I hope this simple list gives people like me some motivation and tools to integrate healthy, meaningful habits into their day!