How to Organize Your Day for Maximum Productivity When You Have Kids

As a female entrepreneur and mother, juggling the demands of running a business and raising children can feel like an impossible task.

But fear not!

With the right strategies and mindset, you can achieve both professional success and quality family time.

Did you know that many working moms cite the cost of child care as a reason they keep their kids at home? Most women are spending their time looking after their kids AND juggling their business and professional responsibilities.

That's why it's crucial to master the art of organizing your day for maximum productivity.

In this mini guide, we'll explore practical tips and tools to help you strike the perfect balance between being a rockstar mom and a successful business owner.

Start Your Day with Purpose by Creating a Morning Routine

Okay, let's talk about mornings.

They used to be my nemesis, I swear. I'd hit snooze a million times, then rush around like a headless chicken trying to get everyone ready.

Not exactly the best way to kick off a productive day, right?

Wake Up Before the Kiddos

I know, I know. The thought of waking up even earlier might make you want to cry.

But trust me, it's a game-changer. I started setting my alarm for 5:00 am, and holy moly, the difference it made (I’m actually writing this blog before the school bus comes)!

Those quiet moments before the chaos begins are pure gold.

Mindfulness and Meditation

Now, I'm not gonna lie – at first, I thought meditation was some woo-woo nonsense.

But after giving it a shot, I'm a total convert.

Even just five minutes of deep breathing or using a meditation app can center you for the day ahead. It's like hitting the reset button on your brain.

Review Your Goals and Priorities

Before diving into emails or social media, take a few minutes to jot down your top priorities for the day.

I use Sunsama, but there are tons of fancy planners out there if that's your jam. This little habit has saved my bacon more times than I can count.

Healthy Breakfast for the Win

I used to skip breakfast or grab something unhealthy on the go. Big mistake.

Now, I make sure to fuel up with something nutritious – and I do the same for my kiddos. It sets the tone for a healthier, more energized day. Plus, it's a chance to sit down with the family before we all head our separate ways.

Time-Blocking Techniques for Entrepreneur Moms

Alright, let's chat about time-blocking.

This technique has been my secret weapon for getting stuff done without losing my mind. It's all about dividing your day into focused chunks of time for different tasks.

Sounds simple, right? Well, it kinda is – but it takes some practice to get it right.

Work Blocks and Family Time

I used to try to work whenever I could squeeze in a minute, but that just led to frustration and feeling like I was always "on."

Now, I set specific work blocks during the day and stick to them as much as possible.

Same goes for family time – when I'm with my kids, I try to be fully present (easier said than done, I know!).

Buffer Time… Because Life Happens

Here's a lesson I learned the hard way: always, ALWAYS schedule buffer time between tasks.

Kids spill juice on their clothes right before school?

Dog decides to eat your important paperwork?

Yeah, that kind of stuff happens. Building in some wiggle room has saved my sanity more times than I can count.

Taming the Email and Social Media Beast

Raise your hand if you've ever fallen down the rabbit hole of checking emails or scrolling through Instagram when you should be working.

*raises both hands*

Been there, done that.

Now, I set specific times for checking emails and social media. It's not perfect – I still slip up sometimes – but it's made a huge difference in my productivity.

The Best Productivity Apps for Working Moms

Okay, can we talk about how amazing technology is for us busy moms?

I mean, sure, sometimes I want to throw my phone out the window when it won't stop pinging, but overall, these apps have been lifesavers.

Let me share some of my faves with you.

Task Management Apps Are Your Digital Brain

I used to be a die-hard paper to-do list gal, but I've finally embraced the digital world. Sunsama for efficient workday planning and Motion are my go-to time management apps for keeping track of work tasks.

Time-Tracking Tools Give You a Reality Check

Want a real eye-opener?

Try using a time-tracking app like RescueTime or Toggl for a week.

I did this and was shocked at how much time I was wasting on certain tasks. Holding a mirror up to your productivity habits is scary, but helpful.

Family Organizer Apps: Sanity Savers

Cozi and FamilyWall have been absolute game-changers for so many families.

No more forgetting soccer practice or double-booking dentist appointments.

These apps keep everyone on the same page, literally.

Virtual Assistant Services. Hello Delegation Station!

I'll admit it – I'm a control freak. Delegating used to make me break out in hives. But hiring a virtual assistant for a few hours a week has been amazing.

They handle tasks like scheduling appointments and managing my inbox, freeing me up to focus on the big-picture stuff.

Worth every penny, I swear.

Prioritizing Tasks: The Eisenhower Matrix for Mompreneurs

Let's get real for a sec – as moms and business owners, we've got about a million things on our plates at any given time. It's easy to feel overwhelmed and end up spinning our wheels.

That's where the Eisenhower Matrix comes in handy. Trust me, this little tool has saved my bacon more times than I can count.

Urgent vs. Important: The Great Divide

Okay, so here's the deal – not everything that feels urgent is actually important, and vice versa. I used to run around like a chicken with its head cut off, tackling every little thing that popped up.

Big mistake.

Now, I take a step back and ask myself:

"Is this truly important for my business or family?"

It's amazing how many things can wait when you look at them through this lens.

Delegation: Your New Best Friend

I'll be honest, I used to think I had to do everything myself. Turns out, that's a one-way ticket to Burnout City.

Learning to delegate has been a game-changer. Whether it's hiring a virtual assistant for work tasks or getting the kids to help with chores, spreading the load makes a huge difference.

And bonus: it teaches the kiddos some responsibility!

Focus on High-Impact Activities

This one was a real eye-opener for me. I realized I was spending way too much time on busy work that wasn't really moving the needle in my business.

Now, I try to focus on activities that will have the biggest impact. It's quality over quantity, folks.

Sometimes that means saying no to things that don't align with my goals – and that's okay!

Family Tasks in the Mix

Here's where it gets tricky – balancing work priorities with family needs. I've learned to incorporate family-related tasks into my priority list.

Soccer practice and client meetings get equal billing in my schedule. It helps me feel less guilty about work time when I know I've got dedicated family time blocked out too.

Creating a Kid-Friendly Home Office Environment

Working from home with kids around can feel like trying to herd cats while juggling flaming torches.

Been there, done that, got the t-shirt (probably with a juice stain on it). But over the years, I've figured out some ways to make it work.

Let me share my hard-earned wisdom with you!

Carve Out Your Space

First things first – you need a dedicated workspace to get deep work done. I know, easier said than done when you're tripping over Legos and stuffed animals.

But trust me, having a specific area that's "yours" makes a world of difference.

Mine's just a corner of the guest room, but it's MY corner, dang it!

The Kid Zone

Here's a genius idea I wish I'd thought of sooner – set up a play area near your office. Set up a little table with coloring books and quiet toys right next to your desk. It might not be perfect, but it will help keep the littles entertained when you need to focus.

Just be prepared for the occasional crayon masterpiece on your important documents!

Boundaries, Boundaries, Boundaries

Setting clear rules about work time was a game-changer for us. We have a system – when Mom's wearing her "work hat" (literally, I have a silly hat I put on), it means I'm not to be disturbed unless it's an emergency.

And no, running out of goldfish crackers doesn't count as an emergency.

Visual Cues for the Win

Kids are visual creatures, so I've found that using visual cues really helps. Try a little traffic light system on your door – green means come on in, yellow means knock first, and red means only if the house is on fire.

It's not foolproof (what is, with kids?), but it definitely helps.

Balancing Work and Family: Strategies for Guilt-Free Productivity

Ah, the eternal struggle – how to be a kickass businesswoman AND a present, loving mom.

If you've ever felt guilty for working late or missed a school event because of a deadline, raise your hand.

*raises both hands and a foot*

Yeah, it's tough. But I've learned a few tricks to help ease the guilt and find some balance.

Mini-Mompreneurs in Training

One of my favorite strategies is involving my kids in age-appropriate business tasks.

My 10-year-old is a whiz at organizing my supply closet, and my 6-year-old loves to "help" stuff envelopes for mailings.

It's not always efficient, but it's a great way to spend time together and teach them about entrepreneurship.

Quality Over Quantity

I used to beat myself up for not spending every free minute with my kids.

But you know what? It's not about the amount of time, it's about the quality.

Now, I schedule regular, dedicated family time – movie nights, game days, whatever.

And when we're together, the phone goes away and work stays in the office.

Mindful Moments

Being present is harder than it sounds, especially when your mind is buzzing with to-do lists and project ideas. I've had to really work on this one.

Mindfulness exercises help – even something as simple as taking three deep breaths before engaging with the kids can make a difference.

Open Communication is Key

Talk to your family about your work commitments. Even young kids can understand if you explain it to them.

I've found that when my family knows what I'm working on and why it's important, they're more supportive and understanding. Plus, it sets a great example for work ethic!

Self-Care and Stress Management for Working Moms

Alright, let's talk about the elephant in the room – self-care.

I know, I know, you're probably rolling your eyes and thinking, "Yeah, right, like I have time for that!"

Trust me, I've been there. But here's the thing – if you don't take care of yourself, you can't take care of anyone else.

It's like they say on airplanes – put your own oxygen mask on first!

Sleep Is Not for the Weak

I used to wear my lack of sleep like a badge of honor. "Oh, I only got 4 hours last night, but I got so much done!"

Newsflash: I was a zombie and my work suffered. Now, I prioritize sleep like it's my job (because it kind of is).

Aim for 7-8 hours, folks. Your body and your business will thank you.

Fuel Your Body Right

Confession time: I used to survive on coffee and whatever I could grab on the go. Not exactly a recipe for success.

These days, I make an effort to eat regular, healthy meals. Meal prep on Sundays has been a game-changer.

And yes, I still indulge in the occasional pizza night – balance, right?

Move It or Lose It

Exercise used to be at the bottom of my to-do list.

Now, it's non-negotiable. I never skip my weekly gym session.

As for daily, even if it's just a 15-minute yoga session or a quick walk around the block, moving my body every day helps keep me sane.

Pro tip: involve the kids if you can!

Dance parties in the living room totally count as cardio.

The Power of No

This one's been tough for me, but learning to say "no" to non-essential commitments has been liberating.

We can't do it all, and that's okay. Prioritize what's truly important and let the rest go. Your future self will thank you for not overcommitting.

Me Time is a Must

Carving out time for yourself might feel impossible, but it's crucial.

Whether it's reading a book, taking a bath, or just sitting in silence for 10 minutes, make time for activities that recharge you. I schedule my "me time" like I would any other important appointment.

Because guess what? It IS important!

You Are Ready to be a Super Productive Mompreneur!

Organizing your day for maximum productivity as a mompreneur is an ongoing process of trial and error.

Remember, there's no one-size-fits-all solution, so be patient with yourself as you find what works best for you and your family.

By implementing these strategies and utilizing productivity tools, you'll be well on your way to achieving your business goals while nurturing your children and maintaining your sanity.

You've got this, mama!