The secret behind a schedule that actually works

The Secret Behind a Schedule That Actually Works ~
Written by Jamie C. Martin

The secret behind a rhythm that actually works, especially when you have littles in the house, is this:

Create it by imagining your worst day possible.

What often happens when moms attempt to plan a 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 an example:

If, back in the day, I’d allowed 30 minutes for breakfast on my routine, then what would happen if Trishna spilled her water, Jonathan was determined to rush outside to “check on the plants,” and Elijah started whining about the fact that we’re all out of Cheerios? (All real-life examples by the way!)

This would have caused my frustration levels to rise significantly – I would start seeing the children as interruptions to “my” day–my plans, my important work.

If, on the other hand, I had allowed an hour on my schedule for breakfast – then I had margin. Built in time to deal with real life in a calmer way.

And on those days when everything went swimmingly and breakfast was over in 30 minutes? That’s the best part! Now there’d be built-in free time: play, 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 gentle plan for your days, 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 rhythm that balances 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

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