Being a working mum often feels like a never-ending quest to find the right balance between career and family life. With so much time dedicated to juggling work, childcare, household chores, and personal well-being, it’s no surprise that many mums, myself included, find themselves stretched thin and struggling to keep up with everything on their plates. Finding the right balance becomes an important thing for working mothers who are committed to excelling in both their full-time job or part-time positions and their roles as parents. In this blog post, we’ll explore the unique challenges faced by working mums and share some practical working mum tips to help you stay happy, healthy, and organised. By implementing these strategies, you can make the most of your precious time and create a fulfilling life that truly has it all.

The challenges of being a working mum

As a working mum, it can often feel like there aren’t enough hours in the day to juggle your career, family life, and personal wellbeing. Being a working mum presents a unique set of challenges that can often feel overwhelming. Balancing the demands of a career while raising children and managing a household requires an immense amount of energy, resilience, and organisation. One of the primary struggles for a working mother is finding a balance between her professional and personal life, as you strive to excel in both areas without compromising the quality of your work or your family’s well-being.

Additionally, working mums often face societal pressures and expectations, which can lead to feelings of mum guilt, inadequacy, or even burnout. Time management becomes a critical skill, as every moment counts when trying to fulfil multiple roles and responsibilities. Despite these challenges, many working mothers persevere and find ways to overcome the obstacles, drawing strength from their love for their family and a determination to succeed in all aspects of their lives.

39 Working Mum Tips

Whether you work full time, have a part-time job or have your own side hustle, being a busy working mum is hard work! To help you navigate the challenges of being a busy mum, we’ve compiled a list of 39 practical working mum tips that will help you stay organised and make the best of your time. 

1. Prioritise Your To-Do List

Not all tasks are created equally. Identify the most important things on your to-do list and tackle them first. This will ensure that even if you don’t complete everything, you’ll still have accomplished the essential tasks. Because for busy working mums, time is a precious commodity that often seems to be in short supply. With countless tasks to accomplish in both professional and personal spheres, it’s essential to find ways to make the most of the limited hours available. 

By identifying the most important tasks and tackling them first thing in the morning or at the beginning of your workday, you ensure that critical responsibilities are met even if you run out of time for other items on your list. This method also allows you to allocate your energy and focus to the tasks that truly matter, rather than spreading yourself too thin across less crucial activities. At the end of each day, review your to-do list and determine which items should be prioritised for the next day. This proactive approach not only helps you stay organised and efficient but also minimises stress and gives you a sense of accomplishment, knowing that you’ve dedicated your time to the most important aspects of your busy life.

2. Utilise Technology

Use apps and tools to help you stay organised and manage your time more efficiently. From shared shopping lists to time management apps, there’s something for every working mum. In today’s fast-paced world, technology has become an indispensable tool for managing our busy lives. By leveraging the power of various apps and devices, you can streamline your daily routine and make time-consuming tasks more efficient. 

There are calendar apps that sync across devices to keep your family’s schedules in check, and grocery delivery services that save you valuable time on shopping trips. In fact, there are a multitude of ways technology can simplify your life. For working parents, utilising productivity apps can help you stay organised both at work and home, while communication tools like video calls can maintain strong connections with loved ones even when you’re apart. Additionally, consider using meal planning apps to create and store weekly menus, or fitness trackers to monitor your physical activity and encourage self-care amidst your hectic schedule. By incorporating technology into your daily routine, you’ll find that it becomes easier to manage the many demands on your time, allowing you to focus on what truly matters and enjoy a more balanced, fulfilling life.

3. Create a Family Calendar 

A family calendar is a great way to keep track of everyone’s schedules and important events. Creating a Family Calendar is an essential tool for keeping busy households organised and ensuring that everyone stays on the same page. With the constant flurry of activities, appointments, and events in daily life, it’s easy for important dates to slip through the cracks. By involving older children and every family member in the process of maintaining a shared calendar, you not only foster a sense of responsibility but also teach valuable time management skills. 

Place the calendar in a central location, like the kitchen or living room, where everyone can easily access it and add their activities. Encourage older children and family members to update the calendar regularly with their schedules, ensuring that everyone is aware of upcoming commitments. This collaborative approach not only helps keep track of important events but also promotes open communication and teamwork within the family. Ultimately, a well-organised Family Calendar can serve as the backbone of your household, helping to reduce stress, avoid scheduling conflicts, and create a more harmonious environment for everyone involved.

4. Delegate Tasks and Lighten Your Load

Don’t be afraid to ask family members for help with household chores or childcare duties. Sharing responsibilities will free up more time for you and teach your children valuable life skills. Delegating tasks is an essential skill for busy working mums who strive to maintain a balanced and efficient lifestyle. By entrusting certain responsibilities to others, you can free up valuable time that can be better spent on more important aspects of your work and family life. Embracing delegation not only allows you to create a more flexible schedule but also teaches your children the importance of teamwork and self-reliance.

Start by identifying tasks that can be easily delegated, such as household chores, grocery shopping, or even meal preparation. Encourage older children to take on age-appropriate responsibilities, and consider enlisting the help of your partner, extended family members, or even paid services to lighten your load. If you work full time why shouldn’t you have a cleaner to come once a week to deep clean? Or if you have the budget for it and it frees up your time, use a laundry service. Lightening your load will make a big difference.

Remember that it’s okay to ask for help – doing so is a sign of strength and wisdom, not weakness. In the long run, effective delegation will lead to a more harmonious home environment and greater overall productivity, as you learn to focus on what truly matters and make the most of your limited time as a busy working mum.

5. Set Boundaries

Establish clear boundaries between your work and personal life to avoid burnout. This might mean setting specific work hours or having a designated space for work in your home. Finding the perfect balance between work and family life can be challenging, especially for busy parents who want to excel in both areas. Setting boundaries is crucial for maintaining this delicate equilibrium, as it allows you to focus on what truly matters while still fulfilling your various responsibilities.

To establish effective boundaries, start by implementing practical tips that cater to your unique needs and circumstances. For instance, designate specific times of the day for work-related tasks and family activities, and try to avoid letting one area encroach on the other. Communicate your boundaries clearly to both your colleagues and family members so they understand when you need to focus on work or when you should be present for your loved ones. Additionally, don’t be afraid to say “no” to requests that may overextend your time or energy. By setting and enforcing these boundaries, you’ll be able to create a more balanced lifestyle, ultimately benefiting both your professional success and personal well-being. Remember, achieving harmony between work and family life is an ongoing process, but with persistence and dedication, it’s a goal worth striving for.

6. Say No When Necessary

As mentioned above, it’s good to say no on occasion! In fact, the best way to stay organised is to know when to say no. Protect your time and energy by declining invitations or requests that don’t align with your priorities. Learning to say no when needed is an essential skill for busy individuals, as it helps maintain a healthy balance between personal and professional life. By setting boundaries and prioritising your time and energy, you can avoid becoming overwhelmed by excessive commitments or unrealistic expectations.

Recognise that saying no is not a sign of weakness, but rather an indication of self-awareness and the ability to focus on what truly matters. When faced with a request that may overextend your resources, take a moment to assess its impact on your existing obligations and well-being. If declining the request is in your best interest, communicate your decision politely and confidently, offering an alternative solution if possible. By mastering the art of saying no when needed, you’ll be better equipped to manage your busy life while preserving your mental and emotional health.

7. Establish a Morning Routine

The morning routine is a game-changer for busy mums, especially new mothers who are still navigating the challenges of balancing work and home life. A well-structured morning routine can set the tone for a productive day, ensuring that you make the most of your limited time. Start by waking up early, allowing yourself some quiet moments to mentally prepare for the day ahead before diving into your daily tasks. Incorporate activities that energise and motivate you, such as enjoying a cup of coffee, doing a quick workout, or spending a few minutes in meditation.

By dedicating this time to yourself, you create a solid foundation for tackling the day’s responsibilities with greater focus and efficiency. Additionally, a consistent morning routine can bring a sense of stability and order to your home life, which is particularly important for new mothers adjusting to their evolving roles. As you establish and refine your morning routine, you’ll likely find that it becomes an invaluable tool for maintaining balance and staying organised in the midst of your busy mum life. If your kids also understand their own morning routine, it can really help to get everyone ready for the day! 

8. Meal Planning and Batch Cooking

Meal planning is a lifesaver for working mums who want to ensure that their family enjoys healthy, home-cooked meals without adding extra stress to their already busy lives. Between juggling work schedules and managing the household, finding time to prepare family dinners can be a daunting task. However, by creating a weekly menu plan, you can streamline the process and make mealtime more enjoyable for everyone. Start by setting aside some time each week, perhaps on the weekend, to plan your family dinner based on dietary preferences, nutritional needs, and any special occasions. Next, compile a shopping list of ingredients required for each dish, and try to consolidate your shopping trips to save even more time. Having a clear plan in place not only reduces the mental load of deciding what to cook each day but also helps you avoid last-minute takeout or unhealthy convenience foods.

By embracing meal planning, you’ll find that you can successfully balance your work schedule with the demands of home life, all while providing your family with delicious and nutritious dinners they’ll love. If you are really stuck for ideas and inspiration, companies like Hello Fresh and Gousto are great ideas. Or why not order online for a delivery from Cook who will make all your family meals for you? 

Also, batch cooking can be a game-changer! By making one dish that will serve as two or three family meals with one to two portions being frozen for a later date, you safe yourself both time and money! 

9. Prepare Lunches in Advance

Make lunches the night before or batch cook on weekends to save time during busy mornings. Preparing lunches in advance is a fantastic way to save both time and money during your busy work week. By dedicating a portion of your weekend or an evening to meal prepping, you can ensure that you and your family have access to nutritious, homemade lunches throughout the workday, without the added stress of last-minute preparations.

This approach not only frees up valuable time during hectic mornings but also allows you to spend more time focusing on your daily tasks and enjoying precious moments with your loved ones. To get started, simply plan out your lunch menu for the week, taking into consideration individual preferences and dietary needs. Then, gather all the necessary ingredients and set aside some dedicated time for meal preparation. Be sure to invest in quality, reusable containers that can keep your meals fresh and make transportation easy. By embracing the habit of preparing lunches in advance, you’ll find that the benefits extend far beyond the workday, ultimately contributing to a more balanced and enjoyable lifestyle for you and your family.

10. Stay Connected with Other Working Mums

Build a support network of other busy working mums who understand the challenges you face. Share advice, tips, and encouragement to help each other succeed. Staying connected with other working mums is incredibly important, as it provides a support network of like-minded individuals who understand the unique challenges and triumphs that come with balancing work and family life. By fostering these connections, you can share experiences, exchange practical advice, and offer encouragement to one another, ultimately making your journey as a working mum more enjoyable and fulfilling. To build and maintain these connections, consider joining local parenting groups, participating in online forums, or engaging with fellow working mums through social media platforms. Apps like Peanut are perfect to find new mum friends and help you feel less alone. Additionally, make an effort to attend events and gatherings where you can meet new people and expand your support network. 

Prioritise building meaningful relationships with those who share similar values and aspirations, as they will be your strongest allies in navigating the complexities of being a working mum. Remember, staying connected with others who are on the same path not only enriches your own experience but also allows you to contribute positively to the lives of your fellow working mums, creating a strong, supportive community that benefits everyone involved.

11. Take Advantage of Childcare Options

Taking advantage of childcare options is a smart move for busy working parents, as it ensures that your children receive quality care and attention while you focus on your professional responsibilities. By exploring various childcare solutions such as daycare centres, in-home care providers, nannies, after-school programs, holiday camps or even enlisting the help of extended family members, you can find an arrangement that works best for your family’s needs and schedule. Selecting the right childcare option not only provides a safe and nurturing environment for your children to grow and learn but also offers you peace of mind, knowing that they are well taken care of during your work hours. As a result, you can concentrate on your career without compromising your child’s well-being, ultimately contributing to a more balanced and fulfilling lifestyle for the entire family.

There may also be support available from UK Gov for childcare so have a look to explore your options. 

12. Batch Tasks

Batch tasking is a highly effective time management technique that can significantly boost productivity and streamline your daily routine. By grouping similar tasks together and tackling them in dedicated blocks of time, you can minimise distractions, reduce mental fatigue, and optimise your workflow. To get started with batch tasking, begin by identifying tasks that can be logically grouped together, such as answering emails, scheduling appointments, or meal prepping for the week. Next, allocate specific time slots in your calendar for each batch of tasks, ensuring that you allot enough time to complete them without feeling rushed. During these designated periods, focus solely on the tasks at hand, minimising interruptions and resisting the urge to multitask.

As you become more adept at batch tasking, you’ll notice improvements in your efficiency and overall time management, ultimately leading to a more balanced and organised lifestyle. Embrace this powerful technique, and watch your productivity soar while freeing up valuable time for the things that matter most.

13. Keep Your Workspace Organised

 A well-organised workspace is crucial for maintaining productivity and focus, as it helps create a clutter-free environment that promotes efficiency. By keeping your workspace organised, you can easily locate essential items, minimise distractions, and reduce stress, ultimately fostering a more conducive atmosphere for creativity and concentration.

14. Focus on One Task at a Time

Multitasking may seem like an effective way to get more done, but it can often lead to decreased productivity. Focus on one task at a time for better results. Focusing on one task at a time is vital for optimising your work day and spending time efficiently. When it comes to intricate tasks such as managing your business or work finances and navigating the latest income tax changes, it’s important to focus so that you can understand everything you need to know and do. By dedicating your full attention to a single task, you can complete it faster and with greater accuracy, ultimately enhancing your overall productivity and making the most of your valuable time.

15. Schedule Regular Breaks

Taking short breaks throughout the day can help prevent burnout and maintain your mental health. It is one of the best practices for maintaining productivity and mental well-being. By stepping away from your tasks periodically, you can recharge your energy, reduce stress, and enhance focus, ultimately making your time spent working more efficient and effective.

16. Exercise Regularly

I know it’s easier said than done but it’s vital to incorporate regular exercise into your routine. It will not only boost your energy levels but it will improve your overall wellbeing. I fit in 45-minute pilates classes or a swim at the leisure centre on my lunch breaks when I’m in the office. Or a half an hour walk in my lunchbreak when I’m at home. If you are really strapped for time, there are some brilliant free 7-minute workouts on YouTube. I love Lucy Wyndhma-Reed’s challenges. 

17. Make Time for Self-Care

Prioritise self-care activities, like reading, meditating, or taking a bath, to recharge your batteries and maintain your mental health. As a working parent, it’s essential to make time for self-care amidst your busy schedule. By dedicating even a small portion of your day to activities that nourish your mind and body, you can combat stress, increase your resilience, and maintain a healthy work-life balance, ensuring you’re at your best for both your family and career. Remember, investing in yourself is never a waste of time. It’s a vital element of being a successful and happy mum.

18. Establish a Bedtime Routine

A consistent bedtime routine can help ensure you get a good night’s sleep, which is essential for busy mums. Establishing a bedtime routine is almost as crucial for mums as it is for kids. It helps you to wind down at the end of the day and ensures good sleep. By following a set routine, you can create a consistent and calming environment that signals to your body and mind that it’s time to relax and recharge, ultimately promoting better rest and overall well-being.

19. Prepare for the Week Ahead

Use your weekends to plan and prepare for the upcoming week. This might include meal planning, laundry, or scheduling appointments. Preparing for the week ahead is one of the easy ways to be a good mum, especially when you have young kids. By planning ahead, you can reduce stress, manage your time more effectively, and create a structured environment that supports your children’s growth and development. This proactive approach allows you to stay on top of your responsibilities while still enjoying quality time with your family.

20. Keep a Running To-Do List

Having a running to-do list ensures that you don’t forget important tasks and can help you stay on top of your responsibilities.

21. Set Realistic Goals

Be realistic about what you can achieve in a day and avoid setting yourself up for failure by setting overly ambitious goals.

22. Learn to Prioritise Your Own Needs

As a working mum, it’s easy to put everyone else’s needs first. However, prioritising your own needs is crucial for maintaining your mental health and overall wellbeing.

23. Communicate with Your Partner

Keep the lines of communication open with your partner to ensure both of your needs are met and responsibilities are shared. This includes discussing your family’s future, especially if you have a critical illness. Finances are a big part of the future, so make sure you’re on the same page. A smart step is to apply for life insurance, which can provide financial security for your loved ones and help you feel more at ease knowing your family will be protected, should it be needed.

24. Be Flexible

Accept that some days will be more challenging than others and be willing to adjust your plans as needed. Also if you’re really struggling speak to your employer and see if there are any flexible working options available. Employers want their staff to be happy because happy healthy staff means more productive staff. It may not be possible due to the job that you do but if there are options available they are worth exploring. 

25. Create a Support Network

Build a network of friends, family, and colleagues who can offer support, advice, and encouragement when you need it. If you get caught up ina  meeting, it’s great to have a mum network to reply on to grab your kids for you. You can return the favour when they need support. 

26. Celebrate Your Accomplishments

Take time to acknowledge and celebrate your achievements, both big and small. Forgive yourself your mistakes, we all make them, but when you do good, celebrate! 

27. Keep a Journal

Journaling can help you process your thoughts and feelings, track your progress, and gain insights into your daily life.

28. Make Time for Hobbies and Interests

Pursue hobbies and interests that bring you joy and help you relax during your free time. If you can combine these with your kid’s hobbies and interests, like Geocaching for example, even better! 

29. Ask for Help When Needed

If you’re feeling overwhelmed. don’t be afraid to ask for help from friends, family members, or professionals when you need it.  

30. Stay Organised with Checklists

Use checklists to keep track of tasks and ensure nothing falls through the cracks.

31. Create a Family Command Centre

Designate a space in your home to serve as a central hub for family information, schedules, and reminders.

32. Simplify Your Wardrobe

A streamlined wardrobe can save you time and energy when getting dressed each day.

33. Establish Routines for Children

Create routines for your children to help them develop good habits and make your daily life more manageable.

34. Learn to Delegate at Work

Trust your colleagues and delegate tasks when appropriate to prevent burnout and maintain a healthy work-life balance.

35. Stay Positive

Maintain a positive outlook, even when faced with challenges, to help you stay motivated and focused on your goals.

36. Be Patient with Yourself

Remember that you’re only human and that it’s okay to make mistakes or not accomplish everything on your to-do list.

37. Schedule Regular Family Time

Make spending quality time with your family a priority by scheduling regular family activities and outings.

38. Take Time to Reflect and Evaluate

Regularly evaluate your routines, priorities, and goals to ensure you’re making the most of your time and living a fulfilling working mum life.

39. Use your commute time

I love to listen to podcasts on my way to work! Or if you have a train commute why not listen to some meditation or read a book. Use your commute time in whatever way suits you best. 

Final Thoughts on Working Mum Tips

In conclusion, being a working mum is no easy feat, but with these 39 practical working mum tips, you can stay organised and make the best of your time. Remember to prioritise self-care and maintain open communication with your partner and support network. By implementing these strategies, you’ll be well on your way to achieving a healthy work-life balance and thriving in your busy working mum life.