Raise your hand if you’ve ever felt like you’re juggling a million things at once, with no time left for what truly matters. As a mom, I totally get it. I’ve been there, feeling stretched thin and overwhelmed, often left with little time to truly connect with my family.

One thing that has helped me so much from feeling overwhelmed and guilty for not spending time with my family is simplifying my life and creating routines. By implementing a routine and creating a schedule, I’ve been able to create more time with my family. This year, I want to be more intentional and fulfilling. It doesn’t mean sacrificing goals or productivity—it means prioritizing what really matters. In fact, because I do these things, I’m able to pursue my goals while being more productive.

The Overwhelm of Busy Schedules

As moms, we often try to do it all—juggling school, work, extracurriculars, household chores and personal commitments. A jam-packed schedule leads to exhaustion, stress and less time for what really matters. How often are you spending time with your family, but your mind is still focused on everything you need to get done? Too often I bet.

It’s important to reassess how we’re spending our time. Recently, I spoke to someone who mentioned her kids are involved in a few sports at a time, plus other activities. She was asking me tips on meal planning because they’re always on the go. I wanted to ask, “How do you find time to spend as a family?” We had to reassess our own schedule when it felt like we were on the go constantly with therapy and lessons. As a family, we simplified and that shift brought more peace and joy into our daily lives. Simplifying continues to be one of my intentions this year.

The Benefits of a Simplified Schedule

When we run around less, it gives us more opportunity to focus on connection. As a mom, simplifying my schedule has reduced overwhelm and helped me be more present emotionally, physically and mentally. Simplifying things can also do wonders for a child, especially one with ADHD. It reduces stress, provides clarity and gives them a greater sense of control.

Example: Most of our appointments are on Wednesdays. I had to talk to JJ about whether adding therapy on that day would be too much with his other commitments. After discussing it, we decided to move one therapy session to another day. Now, I get some one-on-one time with JJ every other week when he has therapy.

Simplifying doesn’t mean doing less—it’s about doing what matters more efficiently, allowing us to be more productive and present.

How to Simplify Your Schedule

1. Assess Your Current Schedule
   Take time to evaluate your current commitments and ask yourself if each activity aligns with your priorities. Be honest with yourself. What can be removed? What should stay? Sometimes, simplifying just means saying no to things that aren’t serving your family’s goals.
2. Set Clear Priorities
   Identify what truly matters to you—whether it’s family, faith, health or your goals. Align your schedule accordingly and set boundaries to protect your time for what’s most important.
3. Learn to Say No
   Saying no can be hard, but it’s often necessary to protect your time. Before agreeing to any new commitments, ask yourself, “Does this serve my goals or values?” By saying no to something that doesn’t fit, you open up space for something that does.
4. Batch Tasks and Delegate
   Batching tasks saves time and makes you more productive. For example, I batch write my blogs and newsletters. When it comes to maintaining the house, get the family involved. Kids can do more than we give them credit for—meal prepping or picking up around the house together creates family moments while staying productive.
5. Use Time Blocks and Flexible Routines
   Time-blocking allows you to focus on one task at a time. For instance, spend just 15 minutes a day tidying up your home. Set aside 10 minutes at night to clean the kitchen. A little structure can make a big difference.
6. Simplify Meals
   Meal planning simplifies your days and reduces stress about what to make for dinner. It also gives you time back for yourself or for connecting with your family. I honestly don’t stress about any meals anymore. 

Make Family Time a Non-Negotiable

In my last blog, I talked about the importance of making family time a priority. Set specific nights for family or couple time and stick to it. I know a lot of families that Friday night is pizza and game night. It’s a simple tradition, but it gives the family something to look forward to.

Simplifying your schedule won’t happen overnight, but it’s a journey worth taking. By taking small steps to prioritize what matters, you’ll find more time for your family and connection. Take a moment today to reflect on the changes you want to make.

By simplifying our schedules, we can enjoy the moments that truly matter with the people we love most. Who knows? You might even find time to chase those dreams you’ve been putting off.

Simplifying Your Schedule Checklist

Love,