All moms are working moms, the saying goes. Whether or not your “work life” takes you to an office or other paying workplace, motherhood is already the very definition of a full-time job.
Like with any occupation, then, routines and habits are key to success. And given the inevitable stresses of motherhood—and the often-competing demands on your time and energy—cultivating positive habits can be crucial to sustaining a peaceful and healthy outlook.
To build a work-life balance that works for you, try these habits to bring easy positivity to your morning, noon, and night.
Positive Mornings
Practice Gratitude
Start your morning with a moment of gratitude—written down, spoken aloud, or shared over the breakfast table with your kids. Let your thankfulness set the tone for a positive day. You might even connect it with your morning tasks, like gratitude for the groceries that make lunch-making quick and easy, or gratitude that your child completed their homework on time this week.
Eat a Healthy Breakfast
Even if it’s just a granola bar and cup of tea or coffee made just how you like it, get something into your system to fuel your positive morning. As you munch something simple and tasty, take a moment to savor the act of nourishing yourself for the day ahead.
Positive Afternoons
Take a Break
Whether you’re at the office or on the go, schedule at least one planned break in the afternoon to re-set your energy and ready yourself for the next phase of your day. Step outside for some breaths of fresh air, walk around the block—or even the building—or do some simple stretches. Don’t think of these few minutes as “productive” time—allow them to freshen your mindset and finish your day on a positive note.
Power with Protein
By 3 pm, I’m usually craving something sweet, salty, or crunchy…but what I really want is an energy boost. Get into the habit of snacking on a handful of nuts, a hard-boiled egg, or protein-packed veggie like edamame or hummus dip. Protein gives your body a sustainable energy lift, powering your muscles and brain to face what’s left of the day. So important for working moms!
Positive Evenings
Let the Day Go
Your day probably had its ups and downs, its frantically busy moments and some periods of boredom to go alongside the enjoyable times. Whatever happened today, take some time in the evening to let it all go. Gentle movements like a slow treadmill walk or easy stretches, a warm bath or shower, or a favorite TV show are all ways to relax, re-center, and leave the day behind you. After all, tomorrow will dawn soon enough.
Tuck Yourself In
Sleep hygiene is a hallmark of a healthy lifestyle. It starts with heading to bed at a consistent time each night. Tuck yourself in just as you do your kids. Take a moment to get calm, read something relaxing, brush your teeth and wash your face, and snuggle into some cozy pajamas. Treat yourself with the love and gentleness you offer your kids at bedtime. You worked hard today, and you deserve it.
What are the positive habits that help you most as a working mom?
