Life as a busy mum can feel overwhelming, but over time, I’ve found little hacks that make everything run more smoothly. They take a lot of pressure off and help make everyday life feel easier.
Here’s what's working for me right now:
1. A Load of Washing a Day
If I'm really busy, I put the washing on overnight while I sleep, then hang it out the next day (undercover or inside if it’s raining). I bring in the previous day’s dry load and put it away immediately. And if it's something that needs to be hung, not folded, I hang it on the hanger when wet so when it's dry I can put it straight in the wardrobe.
2. Ditch the Meal Planning
I don’t meal plan anymore - too much mental effort. Instead, I use my cyclical meal plan with 31 dinner ideas (and links to recipes) on repeat. It’s like autopilot for dinners, and it works really well during busy times.
3. Don’t Put Things Down, Put Them Away
This one is such a cliche, I know, but that's because it works so well. Whenever I pick something up or bring something home, I put it back where it belongs instead of setting it down randomly. It saves time & effort later, keeps the house tidy, and means I’m never hunting for lost items.
4. Sync Calendars
I log every school activity, appointment, and family event straight into my phone calendar the moment I hear about it. I always have my phone on me and it means I'm not collecting (then losing) appointment cards. My phone calendar syncs with my work calendar (I use Book Like A Boss), so I’m never at risk of double-booking myself. It’s a lifesaver for staying organised.
5. Prep Clothes Weekly
On Sunday nights, I prep my clothes for the week. Anything that needs ironing gets done then, and I hang the outfits on a separate rack. No morning decision fatigue - just grab and go.
6. Shower at Night
I switched to showering or taking a bath in the evenings, and it’s one of the most relaxing parts of my day. It feels like a self-care ritual instead of another To Do. And it makes mornings much less rushed, with no fighting for the bathroom.
7. A Simple Hair Routine
I wash my hair twice a week - on Wednesday and Sunday nights - let it dry overnight, and straighten it in the morning. It stays neat for a few days, so I don’t have to think about it again.
8. Streamlined Make-Up
My make-up routine takes about six minutes because I use the same products every time. Everything lives in one bag, so it’s quick to grab and easy to apply.
9. Delegate, Delegate, Delegate
My husband handles breakfasts, lunchboxes, grocery shopping, and most of the cooking. In return, I take on school communications, health appointments, and birthday & Christmas organising. We play to our strengths, and it all balances out.
10. Work Cosy When Needed
Some days, when I’m extra tired but still have things to do, I work from bed. I pile up the pillows, grab a blanket, and make it cosy with a drink and snack. It’s a little indulgence that makes work feel less like work.
These hacks are helpful for me at the moment but they change over time based on what's happening in my life. As a general rule, when I feel overwhelmed, I try to take a minute and think, "how can I make this easier or feel better?"
If you’re looking for simple ways to make your own life easier, my program, check out my online program The Busy Mum’s Guide to Making Life Easier. it's on pre-sale right now, with the next round going live in December - just in time for the busy season!
Click here to sign up now and get access to the full program plus my Simple Christmas Planner on December 1.
