You pack the lunchboxes, set out the outfits, and juggle the morning chaos like a pro. Your little one has a routine—a predictable rhythm that keeps their world spinning smoothly. But what about you, mama? Where’s a flow that supports you—one that nurtures your well-being, energy, and personal growth, not just the needs of everyone else?If your day feels like a never-ending to-do list with little room for yourself, it’s time for a shift. This post actually stems from a reel I saw recently that had me nodding way too hard—it went something like: “Surely I’m not the only one who gets completely ready for bed before dinner, because you know the chaos of bedtime starts after dinner.” And honestly? Game. Changer. I tried it once, and now it’s a non-negotiable part of my flow. Skincare? Always done. No more crashing into bed too tired to wash my face. And let’s be real, by the time dinner is over, the bedtime madness has already begun—there’s no energy left for self-care once the little one is finally asleep. So, now? I pre-game bedtime. And that’s the thing—sometimes, the tiniest shifts in our day make the biggest difference. So, let’s talk about how to create a flow that nurtures not just your kids but also YOU—because your needs matter too.
Why Mama Needs a Flow (Not Just a Routine)
As an early childhood educator, I’ve seen firsthand how a predictable flow helps children thrive. A solid rhythm reduces stress, boosts independence, and makes transitions smoother. But here’s the kicker—this applies to you too. Unlike a rigid routine, a flow is flexible. It’s about creating a rhythm that aligns with your energy levels, needs, and responsibilities—so you feel supported, not stretched thin. Let’s break it down:
1. Start With You: Morning Anchors That Set the Tone
We often start the day reacting—to our kids’ needs, morning messes, or the endless rush out the door. But what if we flipped the script? Now, I’m a morning person—but let’s be clear, that does not mean I’m waking up before the household does. Not a chance. Sleep is already a rare commodity with a little one who’s an early riser. So, while I may dream of a peaceful, candlelit morning routine before the chaos begins, reality looks more like me sipping my green tea while playing shops with a toddler.
Try This: Find a morning moment that’s just for you—even if it happens with your little one beside you.
- For me, skincare is non-negotiable. It’s the one thing I do every single morning, no matter how wild the start of the day is.
- Maybe for you, it’s deep breathing before getting out of bed or a two-minute journal prompt (check out my mindful habits guide for ideas).
Even five minutes of intentional time for yourself can shift the energy of your day. And if your space feels cluttered before you even begin, it might be time to be mindful of your mess and how it affects your focus and energy.
2. Reclaim Pockets of Time—Without the Guilt
I know, I know—”just take a break” sounds easy in theory. But let’s be real. Any free moment I get, I use for chores because mess makes me uneasy. Outer order = inner calm. The downside? It means I never actually take a moment to pause. Recently, I’ve started making a small shift: Divide and conquer. I still tackle those small household tasks (because that helps me feel grounded), but now, I also take five minutes for myself.
Try This:
- Pair a quick tidy with a mini reset. (Fold laundry → sit for 5 minutes with tea. Wipe benches → step outside for fresh air.)
- Make tidying part of the flow. I now do things as they come instead of letting them pile up—kindy bag packed as soon as we get home, dishes done straight away, and a new rule: if I see it, I do it. Dust on the TV cabinet? A quick wipe, and it’s done. No waiting for the big clean, and no stress build-up.
A smoother home and a calmer mind? Win-win.
3. Design Transitions That Work for You
Children thrive on transitions that feel safe and predictable—and so do we. Instead of chaotic shifts between work, parenting, and personal time, create intentional transition rituals.
Try This:
- After work → 5 minutes to decompress before jumping into dinner mode.
- After putting the kids to bed → A simple stretch or lighting a candle to signal “me-time” has begun.
- Before bed → Swapping mindless scrolling for something else (okay, let’s be honest, I still scroll, but I’m trying to be more intentional about it!).
Transitions don’t have to be big—just a little moment to signal what’s next.
4. Align Your Flow With Your Energy (Not Just Your To-Do List)
Some hours of the day, you’re on fire—full of energy and focus. Other times, you’re running on fumes. Instead of forcing yourself into rigid routines, build a flow that respects your natural rhythm. For me? Once my little one is in bed, I’m done. Out. Checked out. Completely unable to do anything productive. So I don’t plan important tasks for the evening. That time is reserved for mindless TV or scrolling because honestly? That’s all I have energy for.
Try This:
- Morning energy? Tackle mentally demanding tasks.
- Afternoon slump? Schedule lower-energy activities (or a quick recharge).
- Evening? Let yourself be done—without guilt.
This isn’t about squeezing more in—it’s about feeling more in control. If your current routine isn’t working, maybe it’s time to press the reset button and find a rhythm that actually supports you.
5. Make Room for Growth (Because You Deserve It)
Here’s the thing: since my little one was born, I haven’t read a single book. Not because I don’t want to, but because at the end of the day, I just don’t have the mental energy. And that’s okay. Personal growth doesn’t have to mean reading a stack of books or taking on big projects. It can be small moments of expansion, in ways that fit your life.
Try This:
- Listen to one podcast episode while driving.
- Set tiny micro-goals (like 10 minutes of movement daily).
- Join a supportive space (like my Truthful Tea Talks Newsletter for weekly inspiration).
Your growth still matters, even if it looks different now.
Ready to Build a Flow That Supports You?
Mama, you deserve a flow that supports you—one that doesn’t just serve your kids but also nurtures your energy, joy, and well-being. It’s time to shift from just surviving the day to creating a rhythm that actually works for you.
✨ Which small shift will you try first? Drop a comment below or join my newsletter for more real, relatable well-being tips. Let’s make this flow work for YOU.
A well-supported mama creates a well-supported family. Build a flow that supports you, so you can thrive—not just survive.
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