Being a mom of three, a full-time teacher, and a small business owner means life is constantly busy and full of surprises. However, staying organized helps me manage everything smoothly and ensures I can be present for my family and my business. Here’s a glimpse into my routines and strategies that keep our household running like a well-oiled machine.
1. Selecting Everyone’s Clothes the Night Before
One of the simplest yet most effective routines I’ve implemented is selecting everyone’s clothes the night before. This small step eliminates the morning rush and the inevitable “I can’t find my shirt!” chaos. Each night, after dinner, we lay out outfits for the next day, making mornings smoother and more predictable.
2. Assigning Nighttime Routine Tasks as a Family
Evening routines are a crucial part of our day. We assign nighttime routine tasks as a family to ensure everything gets done and no one feels overwhelmed. This includes tasks like tidying up, preparing lunches for the next day, and ensuring homework is completed. By sharing these responsibilities, we teach our kids the value of teamwork and responsibility.
3. Weekly Planning and Mapping Out the Week
Before the start of each week, I spend 10-15 minutes planning and mapping out the week in my planner. My go-to planner is the Happy Planner, which provides ample space for notes, to-do lists, and reminders. This planning session helps me visualize the week ahead, prioritize tasks, and ensure I don’t overlook important appointments or deadlines.
4. Using a Shared Family Online Calendar
To keep track of extracurricular activities, doctor appointments, and upcoming events, we use a shared family online calendar. This tool is indispensable for ensuring everyone is on the same page. Each family member can access the calendar on their devices, allowing us to coordinate schedules and avoid conflicts. It’s a lifesaver for busy families juggling multiple activities.
5. Planning Business Tasks
As a small business owner, staying organized is crucial for success. I dedicate specific times to work on my website, inventory, and market planning. By scheduling these tasks, I ensure that my business continues to thrive without interfering with family time. Planning helps me maintain a healthy work-life balance and keeps my business on track.
My Favorite Tools and Strategies
- Happy Planner: My favorite tool for planning and organizing. Its flexibility and customization options make it perfect for managing both personal and professional tasks.
- Shared Family Calendar: A must-have for coordinating schedules and staying informed about everyone’s activities.
- Evening Routine Assignments: Sharing tasks with the family to teach responsibility and lighten the load.
- Night Before Prep: Reducing morning stress by preparing the night before.
Staying organized as a mom of three, a full-time teacher, and a small business owner is no small feat. However, with the right routines and tools, it’s entirely possible. By planning ahead, sharing responsibilities, and using effective tools like the Happy Planner and a shared family calendar, I can keep our household running smoothly and ensure that both my family and business thrive. Remember, the key to staying organized is consistency and finding what works best for your unique situation. Happy organizing!
