Good habits for moms: 4 habits that keep me sane

I’m a big fan of good habits, especially for busy moms. A few of the habits I’ve created for myself through the years as a mom of seven are crucial to the running of my household. They also serve to give me peace amidst (what could be the potential) chaos that is a large family. If you’re looking for good habits for moms, maybe these will work for you.

Plan Your Week

On Friday afternoon, I plan my week. I love Laura Vanderkam’s suggestion to do your weekly planning at this time. She shares her reasons why here and in her wonderful book, Tranquility by Tuesday.

I look at any upcoming appointments, and make a list of things I want to accomplish that week. Since I’m a stay at home mom with no regular childcare arrangements, I have to stay flexible. I use a Bullet Journal to organize my life and my brain.

Weekly Menu Planning

I started doing careful meal planning after my third child was born and the habit stuck. Knowing what’s for dinner makes my whole day feel smoother! It also helps me save money on groceries and avoid food waste.

My routine is simple: the day before I grocery shop, I take a look at the ingredients I already have. I also check the deals at my favorite grocery store. I build a menu, and create a grocery list.

Daily Movement

Exercise, especially outside, has such a powerful effect on my mood. A couple of days this week I felt unusually stressed, and it hit me that I had skipped my daily walk for two days in a row. After taking my walk I felt better immediately.

Getting Up Before Kids

This habit allows me time to pursue personal goals, and have a bit of breathing space at the start of the day before I’m “on” as a homeschooling parent. (Update: As of 2021 my kids are in public school after my divorce. I prioritize sleep more now that I have kid-free time during the day. But when I was homeschooling, that early morning alone time was essential to my sanity!)

Each of these good mom habits creates massive spillover in my life.

For example, making a to-do list means that when I sit down to the computer, I’m much more efficient. I don’t waste time on social media, I get right to work writing or doing other activities that impact my income.

Meal planning saves lots of money and makes us healthier. Being outside and exercising reduces my stress and makes me a better person. And getting things done early in the morning removes that niggling feeling in the back of my brain and allows me to be more present with my children all day.

What habits contribute most to your sanity and well-being? What would you add to my list of good habits for moms?

If habits are your thing, check out my ebook!