From Chaos to Consistency: A Mom’s Guide to Sticking to a Routine
Hi MumLeader!
Sticking to a Routine for Moms: Finding Balance in the Chaos
Are you always wondering where the time constantly runs off to? Many times, I start the week—Sundays, to be exact—with a detailed action plan of how I want each of the coming days to go. Of course, I know that life happens, and unaccounted-for things come into play. But I generally love creating an action plan. I spend hours doing this, then Monday comes, and by noon, I have completely forgotten that I had a routine I wanted to follow. Sound familiar?
If you’re a mom, you know that routines are necessary for our sanity and to keep our children in order. But sometimes, sticking to each task faithfully seems absolutely impossible. It reminds me of Paul’s words in Romans 7:15, "For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do."
The struggle is real! But does it have to be?
Why Do Moms Struggle to Stick to a Routine?
If this sounds like your life too, you’re not alone! Many moms struggle to maintain a routine, and there are several reasons why:
Unrealistic Expectations – Planning every hour down to the minute leaves no room for flexibility.
Lack of Accountability – Without someone or something to keep us on track, it’s easy to forget our plans.
Mental Overload – Moms juggle so many responsibilities that remembering a set schedule can feel overwhelming.
Fatigue and Burnout – Being constantly exhausted makes it difficult to stick to even simple plans.
Distractions – Social media, unplanned tasks, and even our own kids can easily derail us.
Statistics on Routines and Productivity
Research shows that routines significantly impact productivity and mental health:
A study from Duke University found that 45% of our daily behaviors are based on habit, not decision-making.
Moms who follow a daily routine report lower stress levels and better time management.
Children thrive on structure. Studies show that kids with predictable routines develop better self-discipline and emotional stability.
Practical Steps to Stick to a Routine
If you struggle with keeping a routine, here are step-by-step solutions to help you stay on track:
1. Highlight Your Goals
Every routine starts with a purpose. Ask yourself:
Why do I need this routine?
What do I hope to achieve?
Write down your "why" and keep it visible. This will help you stay motivated.
2. Create a To-Do List
Having a daily checklist keeps you focused. Keep it simple and manageable. Instead of writing, "Clean the house," break it down: "Wash dishes, vacuum, fold laundry."
3. Know Your Priorities
Everything cannot be urgent. Ask:
What tasks must be done today?
What can wait until tomorrow?
What can be delegated?
4. Understand Your Energy Levels
Are you a morning person or a night person?
Do you work best after coffee or after a nap?
Schedule important tasks when you are most alert.
5. Start Small
Instead of trying to overhaul your entire day at once, begin with one habit at a time. Once you master it, add another.
6. Use a Timer
Setting a timer for tasks can boost focus. Try the Pomodoro Technique: Work for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break.
7. Limit Distractions
Turn off notifications and set specific times for checking emails or social media. Keep a "brain dump" notebook nearby to jot down random thoughts so they don’t distract you.
8. Give Yourself Grace
Some days won’t go as planned, and that’s okay! God’s mercies are new every morning (Lamentations 3:22-23). Tomorrow is another chance to try again.
Final Encouragement: Progress Over Perfection
I learned that small, consistent efforts made a huge difference. Instead of rigidly following MY planner, I focused on one goal per day. Slowly, my routine became second nature.
Moms, routines are tools, not chains. They help us bring order to our homes, but they should never become burdens. Start small, be flexible, and trust that God will establish your steps.
Which step will you take today to build a routine that works for you?
🎁 Freebie: Transform Your Thoughts, Transform Your Life!
Every mom knows the struggle of trying to stick to a routine—juggling kids, housework, errands, and personal time can feel overwhelming. That’s why I’ve created the Mom’s Daily Planner—a simple, reusable printable designed to bring order to your day.
Download your free copy and start creating a routine that actually works for you!
If this post has helped you, don’t keep it to yourself, share it with another mum who could use a mindset shift!
Post it on social media, send it to a friend, or tag someone in the MumLeader Community who needs encouragement today.
Let’s create a ripple effect of empowered, thriving mums!
