As busy moms, we often find ourselves overwhelmed by the endless tasks and responsibilities that fill our days. Carving out time for ourselves can seem like a distant dream. But by adopting some self-care rhythms into your routine, you can create a sustainable and nurturing lifestyle. Here are five practical time management hacks to help you establish daily, weekly, and monthly rhythms for better managing your time and including personal activities like reading.
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1. Establish Daily Rhythms
In the last couple of months I have been more intentional about adding daily self-care rituals into my routine, which is why I can attest to the benefits of these time management hacks. I set aside specific times in the day for activities that rejuvenate me. Looking back over the course of a week, it feels good to realize that I am consistently taking care of myself.
Morning Rhythm: Start your day with a few minutes of quiet time for yourself. This could be a quick meditation, a short walk, or reading a few pages of a book with your morning coffee. I love to rise when the house is still quiet, about 45 minutes before my son gets up, turn on my little reading lamp, and curl up in my cozy chair with my Bible study. It helps me set intentions for the day and begin with a positive mindset.
Evening Rhythm: Wind down with one of your favorite self-care activities each night. Whether it’s painting your nails, taking a relaxing bath, practicing yoga, or doing a facial, these moments help you decompress and prepare for restful sleep. I choose a different activity each night and rotate through my list of favorite things that I find enjoyable. Therefore, I take time to do a face mask two times a week!
2. Incorporate Weekly Rhythms
Once each week, my husband watches the kids after work and I escape to the coffee shop to either meet a friend or read on my own for a little bit. Sometimes I switch it up and go for a walk around a nearby lake or out to the beach.
Designate specific times each week for activities that require a bit more time or planning. Weekly rhythms help you maintain a balanced routine without feeling overwhelmed.
Pro Tip: Schedule a longer reading session once a week, perhaps on a quiet Sunday afternoon or a cozy Friday evening. This uninterrupted time allows you to spend more time reading your favorite books and enjoy a mini escape from daily stresses.
3. Plan Monthly Rhythms
Set aside time each month for more significant self-care activities. Monthly rhythms help you focus on larger goals and ensure you’re addressing your long-term well-being.
Some people, including myself, use cycle syncing to plan these activities based on where they are in their menstrual cycle. For example, during the follicular phase, you might feel more energetic and social, making it a great time for an active outing like a hike or a dance class. During the luteal phase, you might prefer more restorative activities like a gentle yoga session or a spa day. I schedule a massage every other month during this phase.
If you are interested in learning more about cycle syncing, I started by reading WomanCode by Alisa Vitti.
4. Utilize Micro-Moments
Look for small pockets of idle time throughout your day and turn them into micro-moments of self-care. Waiting in the car for school pick-up, during kids’ sports practice, or while dinner is cooking—these moments can add up.
In especially stressful situations I like to practice deep breathing or take a mindful moment and walk through the five senses to become more aware of your surroundings. (What do you see?, What do you hear?, What do you smell?, etc.)
Pro Tip: Keep a book or e-reader handy to make the most of these snippets of free time. Even a few pages here and there can add up to a whole book over time.
5. Set Boundaries and Learn to Say No
One of the hardest things for moms is saying no. But it’s essential to set boundaries to protect your time. Politely decline activities or requests that don’t align with your priorities or that overwhelm your schedule. Also, talk to your family about your need for me time. Their support will help you make the most of that time!
Pro Tip: Saying no frees up your time and energy for things that matter most to you, including self-care and reading. Remember, it’s okay to prioritize your well-being. In turn, you will be a more present wife, mom, and friend.
Bonus Time Management Hacks Tip: Combine Self-Care with Family Time
Share your love of reading and self-care with your kids. It’s important to model the things that are a priority to you, so set aside family reading time where everyone reads their own book together. It’s a wonderful way to bond, encourage a love of reading in your children, and ensure you get your reading time, too.
By embracing these time management hacks and incorporating rhythms into your routine, you can create a balanced and fulfilling daily life. Remember, taking time for yourself isn’t selfish; it’s necessary.
What self-care rhythms work best for you? Share your thoughts and ideas in the comments below!
