The life of a mom is a constant juggling act, balancing work, kids, house chores, and personal time—if there is any left. With so many things to manage, it’s no surprise that organization can sometimes take a backseat. However, a disorganized lifestyle can lead to stress, chaos, and missed opportunities.
To help all the super moms out there, we have compiled a list of 18 common organization fails that moms often repeat. Recognizing and addressing these mistakes can save you time, reduce stress, and make your life a lot easier.
1. Not having a daily schedule
One of the biggest organization fails moms make is not having a daily schedule. When you don’t have a plan for your day, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by tasks and lose track of time.
Create a daily schedule that includes all your tasks, from cooking meals to picking up the kids from school. Don’t forget to include some time for yourself. Having a clear plan for your day can help you stay organized and reduce stress.
2. Ignoring clutter
Ignoring clutter is another common organization fail. The longer you ignore it, the worse it becomes. Not only does clutter make your house look messy, but it also makes finding things more difficult.
Make decluttering a regular habit. Start small, maybe with a drawer or a specific room, and gradually tackle the rest of the house. Keeping your home clutter-free can save you time and make your home more enjoyable.
3. Not delegating tasks
Many moms try to do everything themselves, which is both exhausting and inefficient. Delegating tasks to your partner or kids can free up your time and teach your kids valuable skills.
Start by assigning simple tasks like setting the table or folding laundry. As your kids grow older, they can take on more responsibilities. Delegating tasks can help you stay organized and give you more time for other activities.
4. Skipping meal planning
Meal planning is a simple habit that can save you a lot of time and stress. Without a meal plan, you may end up making multiple trips to the grocery store or resort to unhealthy fast food.
Plan your meals for the week, including snacks. Make a shopping list based on your meal plan and do your grocery shopping once a week. Meal planning can help you eat healthier, save money, and reduce stress.
5. Not using reminders and alarms
In the midst of a busy day, it’s easy to forget things. Reminders and alarms are simple tools that can help you stay on track.
Use reminders for everything, from picking up the kids to paying bills. Set alarms for important tasks or deadlines. These simple tools can help you stay organized and avoid forgetting important tasks.
6. Neglecting personal time
Many moms neglect their personal time in an attempt to get everything done. However, taking time for yourself is crucial for your mental health and productivity.
Schedule some ‘me time’ every day, even if it’s just 15 minutes. Use this time to do something you enjoy, like reading a book or taking a walk. Taking time for yourself can help you relax and recharge.
7. Buying unnecessary items
Buying unnecessary items is another common organization fail. These items clutter your home and waste your money.
Before buying something, ask yourself if you really need it. If you’re not sure, wait a few days before making a decision. This simple habit can help you save money and keep your home clutter-free.
8. Not having a system for paperwork
Paperwork can easily pile up and become a source of stress. Having a system for paperwork can help you stay organized and avoid missing important documents.
Create a filing system for your paperwork, categorizing them by type, such as bills, kids’ school papers, and important documents. Regularly go through your paperwork and discard anything that’s no longer needed. This can help you keep track of important documents and reduce clutter.
9. Overbooking
Overbooking is a common mistake that can lead to stress and burnout. It’s important to have realistic expectations of what you can achieve in a day.
When planning your day, leave some buffer time between tasks. This allows for unexpected delays and gives you some breathing space. Remember, it’s okay to say no to things if your schedule is already full.
10. Not using a calendar
A calendar is a simple tool that can help you stay organized. It allows you to see your schedule at a glance and plan your time more effectively.
Use a calendar to keep track of appointments, deadlines, and important events. You can use a physical calendar or a digital one, depending on your preference.
11. Not prioritizing tasks
Not all tasks are created equal. Some are more important or urgent than others. Prioritizing tasks can help you focus on what’s most important and avoid feeling overwhelmed.
When planning your day, identify the tasks that are most important or urgent. Focus on these tasks first. This can help you manage your time more effectively and reduce stress.
12. Not having a place for everything
When everything has a place, it’s easier to keep your home organized. You know where to find things and where to put them back.
Assign a specific place for everything in your home. Use labels if necessary. This simple habit can save you time and keep your home tidy.
13. Not using tools and apps
There are many tools and apps available that can help you stay organized. From task management apps to meal planning tools, these resources can save you time and make your life easier.
Explore different tools and apps and find what works best for you. Remember, the goal is to simplify your life, not complicate it with too many tools.
14. Not asking for help
It’s okay to ask for help when you’re overwhelmed. Whether it’s asking your partner to cook dinner or hiring a cleaner, getting help can free up your time and reduce stress.
Don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it. You’re not superwoman, and you don’t have to do everything yourself.
15. Not having a morning and evening routine
Having a morning and evening routine can set the tone for your day and help you wind down at night.
Create a morning routine that includes activities like exercise, meditation, or journaling. Have an evening routine that helps you relax and prepare for the next day. These routines can help you start and end your day on a positive note.
16. Procrastinating
Procrastination can lead to stress and chaos. Instead of putting off tasks, tackle them head-on.
Break down large tasks into smaller, manageable tasks. Start with the easiest task to build momentum. Overcoming procrastination can help you stay organized and reduce stress.
17. Not having a system for laundry
Laundry can quickly pile up if you don’t have a system in place. Having a system can save you time and reduce stress.
Create a laundry schedule that works for your family. This could be doing laundry once a week or a few times a week, depending on your needs. Having a system can keep your laundry under control and make your life easier.
18. Not taking breaks
Working non-stop can lead to burnout. It’s important to take regular breaks to rest and recharge.
Schedule regular breaks throughout your day. Use this time to relax and do something you enjoy. Taking breaks can improve your productivity and reduce stress.
