As we step into a brand new year, it’s natural to feel the desire to refresh and reset. For busy moms, this often means juggling the chaos of family life, work/running a business and everything in between. But what if you could make this year simpler, less stressful and more peaceful? By adopting a few or all these key habits, you can create the foundation for a calmer, more organized home life, all while having more time for what truly matters. These are five habits that I’ve done for years in our home and they definitely work and make life easier. 

Here are 5 habits to kickstart the new year and simplify your daily life:

1. Start with a Morning Routine

How you begin your day sets the tone for everything that follows, I truly believe this. A peaceful, intentional morning routine gives you space to breathe and center yourself before the world pulls you in different directions. Whether it’s a few quiet moments for prayer, devotions, a short walk, working out or a cup of coffee while you reflect on your goals, a morning routine helps you start the day on your terms. Take this time to set your intentions for the day. 

Tip: Even if time is tight, start small. Try incorporating just 10-15 minutes for yourself each morning. You’ll notice a difference in how you feel and how the rest of your day flows. I know some of you are like me and are like I know I can do more than 15 minutes and do an hour. Do what you think will work best for you.

2. Establish a Nightly Routine

Just as a strong morning routine sets the stage for your day, a nightly routine allows you to wind down, prepare for the next day and clear your mind. It’s about creating a sense of closure, making it easier to transition from the demands of the day into a restful night.

Part of a nightly routine would be closing down the kitchen – wiping counters and stove, loading dishes and starting the dishwasher, cleaning the sink out, wipe down table and vacuum/sweep the floor. 

Here are some other things that I do nightly. I pick up my living room, fold any blankets and put pillows back on the couch. I put screens away at least 30 minutes before I head to bed. I shower and do my skin care routine. I lay out my workout clothes and clothes I will be wearing the next day. Put any screens away at least 30 minutes before I go to bed.

Tip: Start by setting a consistent bedtime and incorporating small habits like setting out clothes for the next day, tidying up the kitchen or praying before bed. Start with 1-2 habits and build on them. These actions signal to your body that it’s time to rest and reset for the following day. 

3. Plan Your Day the Night Before

I know as a mom I don’t have the luxury of waking up and figuring out what needs to be done. I’m usually getting kids ready for homeschool and trying to get my day started. By planning my day the night before, I take out the guesswork and reduce stress first thing in the morning, which is a great way to start the day. This simple habit helps me focus on what truly matters and gives me a lot more mental space to enjoy the day ahead.

Tip: Spend just 5 minutes each night writing down your top three priorities for the next day, along with any appointments or to-dos. It’s a quick way to ease into the next day with intention.

4. Meal Planning and Meal Prep

One of the most effective ways I’ve found to simplify my day and cut down on stress is through meal planning and meal prep. Having a plan for the week’s meals saves me time, energy and decision fatigue. Whether it’s planning out your dinners or prepping ingredients in advance, meal planning is key to ensuring that you have nutritious meals on the table without the last-minute scramble.

Tip: Pick a day each week to plan your meals and prep ingredients.I meal plan about a month out and a few days before the week starts I go over the meal plan and make any adjustments I need to make. I found that by prepping 1-2 breakfasts, 1 protein and cutting vegetables and fruits can make the week easier and more enjoyable.

5. Maintaining the Home

A cluttered home can lead to a cluttered mind. While deep cleaning isn’t always necessary, maintaining a tidy and organized space can do wonders for your mental health and overall well-being. Small, consistent habits like a quick 10-minute tidy-up each morning or evening can make a big difference in keeping your home from feeling chaotic. I believe in having a daily checklist and incorporating weekly cleaning into the day, makes maintaining our home so much easier. 

Tip: Get the family involved by assigning simple tasks, like making the bed or putting away dishes. A few minutes of teamwork each day can keep things manageable and create a sense of order in your home.

Start Small, Stay Consistent

These five habits can help you create a simpler, more peaceful life this year. But remember: it’s not about perfection. Start small, stay consistent and make adjustments as needed. With each step, you’ll find yourself embracing a more organized and intentional lifestyle—one that brings more joy, less stress and more time for what matters most.

As we move into the new year, take a moment to reflect on what you truly want. By making small shifts in your daily routines, you’ll create a sense of calm and peace that will last well beyond the first few months of the year.

Closing Thoughts

Incorporating these five habits into your life this year doesn’t require major changes, just small intentional shifts. With the right routines in place, you’ll be able to simplify your day, reduce stress, and find more time for family, faith, and self-care.

Here’s to a simpler, more peaceful year ahead!