Getting the kids out of bed early in the morning can sometimes end up in a series of meltdowns and delays – especially if you’re a working mum. Whether it is last-minute packing, or the kids had a late night the night before, here are some ways to maximise your prep time so that morning routines can be executed in a calm and timely manner.
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It really pays to take half an hour the night before, after the kids have gone to bed, to prepare everything you need for the next day. I always think that preparation is key and results in a more relaxed morning because you know you have already prepared everything to go the night before. No whip-cracking is needed.
1. Have Next Day Clothes Ready
Plan what you want to wear to work today and have them ironed, hung and ready for you to jump into first thing in the morning. The same goes for the kids’ uniforms if you haven’t ironed them earlier in the week.
Stick to what you’ve decided to wear because you will be wasting time choosing another set unless you have one already ironed or if there was a disaster like spilling your coffee on your top.
If your kids have a mind of their own and prefer to pick their own clothes, have them pick out an outfit before they head to bed.
Having a go-to outfit combo works really well too, so organise your clothes in sets on laundry days and you will thank yourself later. Streamlining the colour of the clothes you wear for work also makes it so much easier to mix and match.
2. Have a Standard Breakfast
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No need to practice your culinary arts first thing in the morning and end up a monster, rushing the kids to eat your hard work.
Keep it simple and nutritious, because if your kids are not morning people, chances are their tummy hasn’t woken up either. Cereal, buns, smoothies or even sandwiches that you can take on the go could work better.
Save your creativity for their snack boxes for break time which you can also prepare with love the night before.
3. Set a Time Limit for Checking Your Phone in the Morning
I admit I have a habit of checking all my phone first thing in the morning and in bed. I think we all have that tendency.
Try to limit this to just catching up on what is important only and not checking out what’s happening across the social media platform. Prioritise. All the other petty things can wait for later.
4. Delegate the load
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Don’t do everything yourself and delegate where you can. If your kids are old enough, let them do things on their own like packing their own bags for school the night before.
It saves you time leaving only the need to do a quick check. It also teaches them to be responsible for their own homework and books.
Or maybe the older ones can help dress the younger ones?
5. Line Up Everything For Easy Grab-and-Go
I always like everything we need to bring the very next day and put them by the door. No yelling for where’s this and that whatsoever. Everyone can pick up their own bags and head straight to the car.
Keeping yourself together as a working mum
Create a self-care routine.
Taking care of yourself is essential, especially for working mothers who often put the needs of their families and careers before their own. Establishing a regular self-care routine can help to reduce stress, improve overall well-being, and maintain a healthy work-life balance.
Start by identifying activities that bring you joy and relaxation, whether it’s reading a book, practising yoga, taking a bubble bath, or going for a walk in nature.
Additionally, prioritise self-care by setting aside dedicated time in your schedule for these activities. Remember, self-care is not a luxury, but a necessity for maintaining your physical, mental, and emotional health.
By prioritising your well-being, you can better support your family and thrive in both your personal and professional life.
Practice mindfulness throughout the day.
In order to cultivate a sense of calm and reduce stress throughout your busy day, consider incorporating mindfulness practices into your routine.
Mindfulness involves paying full attention to the present moment without judgment or distraction. Begin by taking a few moments each morning to set your intentions for the day and engage in a brief meditation or breathing exercise.
Throughout the day, practice mindful awareness by fully immersing yourself in each task or interaction, allowing yourself to fully experience and appreciate each moment.
Take breaks when needed to pause, breathe, and refocus your attention. By practising mindfulness throughout the day, you can enhance your overall well-being and find greater peace amidst the demands of work and family life.
Delegate tasks and ask for help.
One effective strategy for reducing stress and finding balance as a working mom is to delegate tasks and ask for help when needed. Recognise that you cannot do everything on your own and that it is perfectly acceptable to seek assistance.
Delegate household chores to family members or consider hiring a cleaning service to lighten your load.
Additionally, reach out to your support network, such as friends, relatives, or fellow parents, and ask for help with childcare or carpooling.
By sharing responsibilities and relying on others, you can alleviate some of the pressure and create more time for self-care and relaxation.
Remember, asking for help is not a sign of weakness but rather a wise and necessary step towards managing your stress and overall well-being.
Also read:
Maternity Leave in Singapore: A Guide for Working Expecting Mums
Pregnant and Working? Here’s What You Need to Know to Keep Your Baby Safe and Your Career Thriving