Time Management for the Introverted Mom ~ Written by Jamie C. Martin
Motherhood and calm don’t always go together, yet the latter is so important for introverted moms! Finding the right balance of spontaneity and rhythm allows us to create a home that is little less stressful.
But before we consider time management for the introverted mom, it’s important to keep two things in mind:
First, remember that there is no magic pill or formula that will enable children to not be children.
I feel moms have a tendency (speaking from my own experience) to look for an easy tip or trick that will “solve” an issue, when the reality is that what is right in one home may not work at all in another.
And what is right in one season may not work at all in another!
Second, it may be helpful for you to know that my house was loud for many years, no matter how much rhythm and routine I put into place.
My children bickered regularly (some days constantly), and I found it trying and overwhelming–just like you do. Sometimes it helps to know we’re not alone, don’t you agree?!
With those two ideas in mind, here are two time management tips that helped me navigate the years with young children:
1. Allow plenty of time for tasks.
We moms try to pack so much into so little time. If we give ourselves plenty of flex time in between activities, it helps alleviate the drill sergeant mentality because we’re not always rushing.
Seasons with young children at home are not seasons of massive productivity. Setting expectations accordingly is truly a lifesaver.
2. A strong rhythm helps.
Our days at home typically flowed in the same pattern, according to what worked for our family. Your routine can and should look different!
But having a general rhythm to your days helps to prevent the chaos that can result from a complete lack of order. (I discuss this in greater length in my book Steady Days.)
Is there a certain amount of time that you notice your kids can play before fighting or arguments begin?
When my three would play together as littles, it would last for 20-30 minutes before a problem emerged. Knowing this, I would plan accordingly and call them in for a snack or to transition to something else.
We found a visual schedule to be so helpful during this season – find more details in this post I wrote back in the day on Simple Homeschool if that interests you!
You’re not alone and the work you’re doing in your home matters more than you could ever imagine, even when much of it feels unseen by the world. I’m cheering you on from the sidelines!
“So stay true to your own nature. If you like to do things in a slow and steady way, don’t let others make you feel as if you have to race.
If you enjoy depth, don’t force yourself to seek breadth.
If you prefer single-tasking to multi-tasking, stick to your guns.”
Susan Cain, Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World that Can’t Stop Talking
Ready for more calm, less guilt, and quiet joy as a mother? I’d love for you to join my Introverted Moms’ community – open now!
One of the best things I did when my kids were little