Creating the Perfect SAHM Routine: Finding Calm and Joy in Your Busy Day
Importance of a Routine for SAHMs
Hey Mama, let's talk about routines.
Being a stay-at-home mom (SAHM) is both a blessing and a whirlwind. You’re juggling a million things, and without a routine, it can feel like you’re constantly putting out fires. Trust me, I’ve been there, and I know the struggle is real. But guess what? A structured routine can bring a sense of calm to your chaos and help you find those pockets of joy you’ve been craving.
I’m Kelly, a mom of four, with a Master's degree in Counseling and a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. I get it—feeling overwhelmed and overstimulated is part of the gig. But I’m here to help you create a routine that brings the joy back into your life.
Understanding the Challenges
What’s a SAHM's day like?
It’s a lot. From endless laundry to keeping the kids entertained, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. And let’s not even talk about the sensory overload—constant noise, mess, and demands can leave you feeling frazzled. Sound familiar?
Why do we feel overwhelmed?
Too much on your plate and not enough downtime. The first step to tackling this is recognizing these triggers so we can manage them better.
Benefits of a Structured Routine
Less Stress, More Calm
A well-planned routine reduces stress by adding predictability to your day. Knowing what comes next can be a huge relief and help you feel more in control.
Creating Calm and Order
When everyone knows what to expect, the day runs smoother. Kids thrive on routine, and having a set schedule can mean fewer tantrums and meltdowns.
Finding Joy
A structured routine lets you carve out time for things that bring you joy—whether that’s a hobby, exercise, or a few moments of peace. These little joys add up to a happier you.
Assessing Your Current Routine
What’s stressing you out?
Take a good look at your day. What parts feel most chaotic? Is it the mornings, evenings, or the endless stream of chores? Identifying these pain points is the first step to making effective changes.
What’s already working?
Celebrate your wins! If you’ve got a great bedtime routine or meal planning down pat, build on these successes as you tweak the rest of your schedule.
Setting Realistic Goals
Prioritize Tasks
Not all tasks are created equal. Focus on what’s truly important and let go of or delegate the rest. This helps you concentrate on what matters most and reduces feelings of overwhelm.
Self-Care is a Must
Self-care isn’t a luxury; it’s essential. Make time for yourself every day, even if it’s just a quiet cup of coffee in the morning or a relaxing bath at night.
Morning Routine
Start Your Day Right
A smooth morning sets the tone for the rest of the day. Simple tasks like making the bed and having a nutritious breakfast can give you a sense of achievement and start your day off on the right foot.
Quick Tips:
Prep the Night Before: Lay out clothes, pack lunches, set up breakfast items.
Wake Up Before the Kids: Even just 15 minutes of quiet time can make a difference.
Keep Breakfast Simple: Think smoothies, oatmeal, yogurt.
Managing Household Chores
Create a Cleaning Schedule
Break down chores into manageable tasks and spread them out over the week. For example, laundry on Mondays, vacuuming on Tuesdays.
Involve the Kids
Teach responsibility by getting your kids involved in age-appropriate chores. This lightens your load and fosters teamwork.
Meal Planning and Preparation
Simplify Meal Times
Plan your meals for the week, make a shopping list, and stick to it. This avoids last-minute scrambles and reduces stress.
Healthy and Easy Recipes
Focus on quick, nutritious meals. Keep staples like pasta, rice, and frozen veggies on hand. Batch cooking and using a slow cooker can save time and ensure you have healthy meals ready to go.
Scheduling Downtime
Take Breaks
Short breaks throughout the day are essential for maintaining your energy levels. This could be a quick walk, deep breathing exercises, or a short nap.
Find Quiet Moments
Enjoy a cup of tea, read a book, or simply sit in silence. These moments can help you feel more centered and refreshed.
Kids' Activities and Learning Time
Educational and Fun
Incorporate learning into playtime. Reading, puzzles, and educational games can be both fun and educational.
Balance Screen Time
Set limits on screen time and ensure it’s balanced with outdoor play and creative projects. Screens are useful but shouldn’t dominate the day.
Evening Routine
Wind Down
An evening routine helps transition from the busy day to a more relaxed state. Tidying up, setting out clothes for the next day, and reading bedtime stories can help everyone wind down.
Prep for Tomorrow
Spend a few minutes each evening preparing for the next day. This reduces morning stress and sets a positive tone for the day ahead.
The Importance of Flexibility
Be Adaptable
Life with kids is unpredictable. Be flexible and willing to adapt your routine as needed. Sometimes things won’t go as planned, and that’s okay.
Handle Unexpected Events
Build buffer time into your routine for handling unexpected events without derailing your day. Leave extra time between activities and have a backup plan.
Self-Care Strategies
Find Time for Yourself
Even if it’s just 10 minutes a day, find time to do something that nurtures your well-being. Whether it’s a quiet cup of coffee, a relaxing bath, or a walk around the block, make time for you.
Simple Self-Care Ideas:
Take a Walk: Fresh air and a change of scenery can boost your mood.
Deep Breathing: Reduces stress and improves focus.
Enjoy a Hobby: Knitting, painting, gardening—find something you love.
Connect with a Friend: Even a quick chat can make you feel supported.
Rediscovering Your Joy
Pursue Hobbies and Interests
Reconnect with hobbies and interests you’ve set aside. You’re more than just a mom; you have your own passions that deserve attention.
Connect with Other Moms
Build a support network. Sharing experiences and advice with other moms can be incredibly comforting and helpful. Join a local mom’s group, an online community, or just get together with friends.
How Life Coaching Can Help
Feeling overwhelmed? As a life coach specializing in helping overwhelmed moms, I can help you create a balanced routine and rediscover your joy. Together, we can identify your pain points, set realistic goals, and create a plan that works for you and your family.
Contact Information and Services Offered
Ready to make a change? Contact me today to learn more about my life coaching services. [Your Contact Information]. Let’s work together to create a routine that brings calm and joy back into your life.
Key Takeaway Points
Structured Routine = Less Stress: Implementing a daily routine helps manage chaos and makes your day more manageable.
Self-Care is Essential: Make sure to include time for yourself in your daily schedule. Even small moments of self-care can significantly improve your well-being.
Be Flexible: Life with kids is unpredictable. Be prepared to adjust your routine as needed and handle unexpected events with grace.
Involve the Kids: Teaching responsibility through chores lightens your load and fosters teamwork.
Meal Planning Saves Time: Simplify meal times with easy, healthy recipes and plan your meals for the week.
Encouragement and Support
You’re doing an amazing job! Remember, it's okay to seek help and make changes. A well-structured routine can make all the difference. Take it one step at a time, and don’t be too hard on yourself.
Final Thoughts on Creating a Balanced SAHM Routine
Creating a balanced routine takes time and effort, but the rewards are worth it. Take it one step at a time and be kind to yourself along the way. With a little planning and flexibility, you can create a routine that works for you and your family.
Brain Dump Workbook for Busy Moms
Feeling overwhelmed with all the tasks and thoughts swirling in your head? Check out my Brain Dump Workbook for Busy Moms. It's designed to help you clear your mind, organize your thoughts, and prioritize your tasks. Click here to download your copy today!
FAQs
What are some quick self-care activities I can do during the day?
Deep breathing exercises, a short walk, enjoying a cup of tea, or reading a few pages of a book.
How can I get my kids to help with chores?
Start with simple, age-appropriate tasks and make it fun. Use chore charts, reward systems, and involve them in the process to create a sense of teamwork.
What should I do if my routine gets disrupted?
Be flexible and adapt as needed. Build buffer time into your schedule and have a backup plan for unexpected events.
How can I balance screen time for my kids?
Set clear limits on screen time and ensure it’s balanced with other activities like outdoor play, reading, and creative projects.
What’s the best way to start a new routine?
Start small and gradually build on your routine. Identify your priorities, set realistic goals, and be consistent. It takes time to establish a new routine, so be patient with yourself and your family.
Ready to dive in? Let’s do this together, mama! You’ve got this!
With Love and a Whole Lot of Imperfection,
