is wine while you're doing the laundry. (Kidding--though it helps!)
The secret behind a schedule that actually works is this:
create it by imagining your worst day possible.
What often happens when moms attempt to make a rhythm or routine for our days is that we cram as much into the schedule as possible--because there's so much we feel needs to "get done."
Ironically though, doing so means that we fall further behind than ever.
Here's what I mean:
If I allow 30 minutes for breakfast on my routine each day, then what happens when Trishna spills her water, Jonathan is determined to rush outside to "check on the plants," and Elijah starts whining about the fact that we're all out of Cheerios? (All of these examples have happened in the past week by the way!)
This causes mama's frustration levels to rise significantly--I start seeing the children as interruptions to "my" day--my plans, my important work.
If, on the other hand, I've allowed an hour on my schedule for breakfast--then I know that I have margin. I never have that panicky behind feeling. I have built in time to deal with life in a calmer way.
And on those days when everything goes swimmingly and breakfast is over in 30 minutes? That's the best part! Now there's built-in free time: play time, time to tickle little ones, laugh a little longer, snuggle on the couch, or read a quick library book.
If you've been struggling to find success with a routine, imagine how long the regular parts of life actually take on the most challenging days around your home. Use that as your framework and you'll discover an unfolding blend of both peace and productivity.
"I love a broad margin to my life. Sometimes, in a summer morning, having taken my accustomed bath, I sat in my sunny doorway from sunrise til noon, rapt in a revery."
~ Henry David Thoreau
