Let’s be real—being a mum is like juggling flaming swords while riding a unicycle. There’s always too much to do and never enough time to do it. Whether it’s chasing after the kids, meal planning, or trying to remember the last time you drank your coffee hot, life can feel like chaos on a good day.
But here’s the thing: being productive doesn’t mean cramming more into your day. It means working smarter, not harder. And with a few simple hacks, you can reclaim your time and actually feel like you’re winning at this mum gig.
Here are five productivity hacks that have saved my sanity—and I hope they save yours too!
Hack #1: Use Time Blocking to Stay Sane
Time blocking is the secret weapon of mums everywhere. It’s like giving your day a roadmap so you know exactly where you’re going—and when to take a pit stop.
Here’s how it works:
- Break your day into blocks of time dedicated to specific tasks.
- Example: 8–9AM = breakfast chaos, 9–11AM = work/blogging, 11–12PM = errands, etc.
Why it works: When you know what you’re focusing on and when, you’re less likely to feel overwhelmed by the never-ending to-do list. Bonus: it helps you carve out time for yourself (more on that later).
Pro Tip: Use a planner or a digital calendar to set up your blocks. Colour-coding makes it even more satisfying!
Hack #2: Batch Tasks Like a Pro
You know those mums who look like they have it all together? They’re probably batching their tasks (and/or faking their good life for the internet…). The idea is simple: instead of hopping between a million little things, group similar tasks together and knock them out in one go.
Here’s how you can batch like a pro:
- Laundry Day: Do all the washing, folding, and putting away in one swoop.
- Meal Prep: Chop veggies, cook proteins, and portion meals for the week in a single session.
- Kid Chaos: Schedule a time block to tackle homework, school forms, or even playtime.
Why it works: Switching between tasks takes up precious mental energy. Batching helps you stay focused and get more done in less time.
Hack #3: Set Realistic Daily Priorities
We’ve all done it—written a to-do list longer than a CVS receipt and felt defeated when only two things got crossed off. The solution? Set realistic priorities.
Here’s how to do it:
- Each morning, write down your top three priorities for the day. These are the things that absolutely need to get done.
- If you finish those, you can tackle the rest of your list—or just enjoy the extra breathing room.
Why it works: When you focus on what’s most important, you directly tackle overwhelm and avoid the guilt of an unfinished to-do list. Plus, crossing off even one priority feels amazing.
Hack #4: Build a Sunday Reset Routine
Sunday is the perfect day to reset and prep for the week ahead. This one habit can transform your productivity all week long.
Here’s what a Sunday reset could look like:
- Plan Your Meals: Write out your dinners and prep snacks.
- Tidy Up: Do a quick sweep of the house to start the week with a clean slate.
- Set Up Your Schedule: Review appointments, kids’ activities, and errands for the week.
- Self-Care: Take 30 minutes for YOU (a bath, a book, or whatever recharges you).
Why it works: Starting the week with a plan gives you clarity and reduces that “I’m already behind” feeling before Monday even begins.
Want to read more about the Sunday Reset? Check out my post all about it here!
Hack #5: Take Micro Breaks to Re-Energise
Being “productive” doesn’t mean running yourself into the ground. In fact, taking short, intentional breaks can actually make you more effective.
Here’s how to take micro breaks:
- Every hour or two, step away from whatever you’re doing for 5–10 minutes.
- Stretch, grab a drink, or just sit quietly for a moment.
Why it works: Micro breaks help you reset your brain and avoid burnout. They’re also a great way to sneak in a little self-care during a busy day, and you deserve that!
Listen…
I know being a mum is hard work, but these productivity hacks can help make your days feel a little less chaotic and a lot more manageable. Start with just one hack—maybe time blocking or a Sunday reset—and see how it transforms your week.
🔥 Which of these hacks are you most excited to try? Let me know in the comments below!
📌 Want even more tips and inspiration? Follow me on Pinterest, where I share productivity hacks, self-care ideas, and budget-friendly solutions for busy mums.
Click here to follow me on Pinterest!
You’ve got this, mama. Even on the craziest days, remember: progress, not perfection.
Until next time,
Jordan 💛
