As a busy mum, I know how overwhelming life can feel sometimes. Between managing the kids, keeping the house in order, and trying to carve out even a sliver of time for yourself, productivity can seem like an impossible dream. But what if I told you that a few simple tweaks to your day could help you feel more in control?
In this post, I’ll share three productivity hacks that have transformed my routine. These are practical, mum-tested tips that can help you reclaim your time and reduce stress—no fancy apps or expensive tools required.
1. Use Time Blocking for Structure
If you’ve ever felt like your day gets swallowed by chaos, time blocking could be the solution you need. It’s all about dividing your day into dedicated chunks for specific tasks, ensuring everything gets its moment without overwhelming you.
Here’s how it works:
• I set aside 30 minutes in the morning for tidying up, an hour after lunch for playtime with the kids, and 15 minutes in the evening to plan the next day.
• By giving each activity its own time slot, I avoid multitasking, stay focused, and know exactly what needs to happen next.
Quick tip: Start small by time-blocking just one part of your day, like mornings or evenings, and gradually build up as it becomes a habit. A simple planner or even sticky notes can help you stay organised.
2. Prep the Night Before
Mornings are hectic for most mums, but a little preparation the night before can make a world of difference. Spending just 15 minutes on evening prep can save you from scrambling when the day begins.
Here’s what I do:
• Lay out clothes for myself and the kids.
• Pack lunchboxes and snacks for the next day.
• Jot down a short to-do list of my top three priorities for tomorrow.
By tackling these tasks ahead of time, I wake up feeling more prepared and less frazzled. Plus, it sets a calm tone for the day, which my kids definitely pick up on!
Quick tip: Identify the three things that cause the most morning stress (e.g., breakfasts, school bags, or outfits) and focus on prepping those first.
3. Embrace the 2-Minute Rule
This hack is a lifesaver for mums juggling endless small tasks. The 2-minute rule is simple: If something will take less than two minutes to complete, do it immediately rather than putting it off.
Here are some examples:
• Replying to a quick text or email.
• Throwing laundry into the washer.
• Tidying up a toy that’s out of place.
These tiny actions may seem insignificant, but over time, they add up to a more organised and manageable day. Plus, you’ll spend less mental energy thinking about those “small” things you keep putting off.
Quick tip: Keep a mental list of 2-minute tasks you can tackle throughout the day. You’ll be amazed at how much you can get done in little pockets of time.
Final Thoughts
Being a mum is one of the most rewarding yet demanding roles, and staying productive can feel like an uphill battle. But with these three hacks—time blocking, prepping the night before, and the 2-minute rule—you’ll find it easier to stay on top of your day without burning out.
Remember, it’s all about progress, not perfection. Start by trying one of these tips this week and see how it works for you. Small changes can lead to big results.
Do you have a go-to productivity tip that helps you stay organised? Share it in the comments below—I’d love to hear from you!
