There’s too much to do when you’re a working mother. Not only do you have to get the kids ready for school, but get yourself ready for work, and ensure everyone is fed and the house is tidy. Many other women have proven that it can be done. But just how can you balance your life as a working mother without going crazy? Here are a few ways to help you balance life as a working mom.

Designate Chores and Tasks: The first thing you’ll learn is that you can’t do it alone. Not only can children benefit from helping out around the home, but spouses should be putting in their fair share of the work too. But not everyone needs to know how to do everything–for instance, one spouse is usually better at cooking or doing household repairs than the other.

Create an Organisational Calendar: Buying a large family calendar can help everyone in your family stay organized. This calendar can include such information as work and school times, dates when the bills are due, and even family time. You can colour code them to make it simple for each person to see what they’re doing that day. This calendar should be prominently displayed in the house so that everyone sees it in the morning. Usually the kitchen is best. 

Family Time Is Important: When you can stay organized and do tasks effectively, you’ll have more time to spend with family. It’s important to designate as much time as possible for them, even if it means doing the washing up after everyone  has gone to bed. You want family to feel that they’re important and not an inconvenience in your life. This time needs to be marked on your organisational calendar in the kitchen, and should never be crossed off to cover some other task. 

Cook Short But Healthy Meals: There simply isn’t time to cook meals that take hours and hours. If you want meal tips, Jamie Olivers has dozens of recipes that take only 15 minutes to prepare. Not only does your family gain the benefits of eating well, but the food is delicious too! This gives you 15 minutes for cleanup, and about half an hour to spend with family. And if you double or triple the recipes, you don’t even have to cook the next few meals.

Stay Connected During the Day: If you have older kids, send them a text message or give them a call during the day. This will ease your mind that they’re fine, and also helps to remind them of their schedule so you’re not rushing around trying to find them for swimming classes. They’ll also appreciate hearing your voice and may be comforted if they’re having a tough day, or unsure how they did on an exam.

There will be a day when you no longer have your children to look after. In fact, this may become a time that you’re bored and feel like you have nothing to do. So, remember, as a mom, always appreciate your family and spend plenty of time with them!