On doing too much
Time is your most valuable resource—here’s how to make it count.
COOKING Slow Cooker Mustard Chicken and Creamy Orzo for those busy nights when you still need a home cooked meal
LISTENING The Art of Context Switching Bobbie’s Chief Brand Officer shares her time management tips- shameless Podcast plug!
WATCHING Nobody Wants This Don’t let the title fool you, I can’t get enough!
BUYING Dolce Vita Glamor Boots these are super comfortable and great for Fall
SHARING How to Get Out of the Roommate Phase tips on reconnecting with your spouse after baby
Currently
Time slips away so fast, right? Between work, kids, errands—there's always something pulling at us. Time is our most valuable resource, yet it often feels like we have the least control over it. I’ve realized that reclaiming time and peace of mind starts with setting clear priorities and boundaries. It’s easier said than done, though.
Like last weekend, I barely saw my kids because of work, and I felt guilty. Guilty because weekends I always set as family time, but also guilty because I was loving what I was doing - two conflicting feelings can be valid. I talk a lot about boundaries, yet there I was, struggling to set them myself. But instead of spiraling into mom guilt, I decided to reframe how I spent my time.
One thing that's helped is thinking about life in "seasons." Sometimes, work takes priority, like when I have tight deadlines. Other times, I focus on family or things that refill my energy (like on our trip to Portugal where I paused some work goals…like this newsletter). Realizing that it’s okay for priorities to shift has made me kinder to myself. I adjust my boundaries depending on what my family or I need in that moment.
Another tip? The mantra, "If everything is important, nothing is important." Focusing on the few things that truly matter each day keeps me from drowning in the noise. Instead of letting my to-do list stress me out, I pick one or two non-negotiables each day. Some days, it’s a work task; others, it’s simply having a distraction-free family dinner.
And speaking of “distraction-free,” I started doing something *novel* in the mornings - I do not use my phone from the time I wake up until after I drop off the kids. No Instagram, no responding to text messages, no scrolling email. And it's been wondrous in giving me back time and making mornings more peaceful.
Another small habit that helps? My "Sunday Seven." Each Sunday evening, I spend a little time prepping for the week. I meal plan, set priorities, review childcare needs, look at our social calendar, and generally get myself set (more about my process here). This isn’t about perfect planning—it’s just about creating a little buffer for the week ahead, so I don’t start Monday feeling frantic.
Now, here’s what’s worked for me, and maybe it’ll help you too. Ask yourself: What’s truly important today? Then, create boundaries that make sense for your current season. Be flexible enough to adjust when things change but firm about honoring what matters most. Time is your most valuable resource. Small shifts like these can help you spend your time where it counts—on the people and moments that really fill you up.
All The Things
As a working mom, keeping up with a never-ending to-do list can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry—I’ve got you covered! Here are some of my go-to essentials that help me stay organized, energized, and ready to tackle the week ahead.
Full Focus Planner multiple powerhouse guests from my podcast swear by this planner
Lululemon yoga mat, Bala wrist + ankle weights these help me fit in a quick workout during my busy mornings
The Sculpt Society App I love how quick and effective these workouts are. Use this link to get 1 month free
Beats Pro Headphones great for when I need to block out the noise (literally) and focus
Perelel Synbiotic Greens Powder a clean green powder that is pregnancy and breastfeeding safe!
Some clothes I love to wear when working from home
Leset Stretch Pants comfy but still elevated
La Ligne Crop Solid Marin Sweater in cream
La Ligne Solid Marin Sweater in brown
Everlane Box-Cut Tee the perfect staple t-shirt that comes in tons of colors
Quince Organic Cotton Denim Chore Jacket great transition piece for Fall
Sezane Max Shirt a classic, crisp button down that works with everything
The Greta Ballet Flat a great price point for a classic and reliable flat
Adidas Samba OG there’s a reason you’re seeing everyone with a pair…they’re comfortable and so versatile!
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Thanks as always for following along on this journey,
Barbara