I used to think I could have it all—career, family, home. Technically, I do. But having it all doesn’t always mean it’s easy. If you’re a mom who feels like the dishes are multiplying and the laundry’s plotting against you, this one’s for you. I see you, and I’m right there with you.
Let’s talk about what balance really looks like when you’re doing it solo.
1. 📅 Planning to Stay Sane
My day is sliced into tiny slivers of time—from sunrise to bedtime—but one thing that grounds me is planning. I’m that person who loves mapping out weekend trips or organizing my planner until it sparkles. Without it, I’d be late to everything and constantly flustered.
Here’s a peek into my weekday schedule:
| Time | Activity |
| 5:30 AM | Wake up |
| 5:30 AM – 6:30 AM | Make coffee, get dressed, pack up car |
| 6:30 AM – 7:00 AM | Daycare drop off and work |
| 7:00 AM – 3:30 PM | Work |
| 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM | Workout |
| 4:30 PM – 5:30 PM | Errands/daycare pick up |
| 5:30 PM – 7:15 PM | Dinner, play, bath time |
| 7:15 PM – 7:45 PM | Tidy up, dishes, laundry |
| 7:45 PM – 10:30 PM | Me time |
| 10:30 PM | Sleep |
I use a mix of Microsoft Notes and a trusty paper planner to keep track of work tasks, errands, and daily intentions. My favorite part? Starting each day with the following intention:
- Count my blessings
- Let go of what I can’t control
- Be a problem solver and leader
- Practice kindness
- Breathe
- Be productive—but don’t get overwhelmed
- Find magic in the small things
This keeps me grounded—and remind me that rocking my child to sleep at night is a moment worth savoring.
2. 💪 Working Out Isn’t Just Physical
Fitness isn’t just about staying active—it’s my mental reset. I hit the gym 2–3 times a week where there’s childcare (lifesaver!), pop in my earbuds, and catch up on my favorite podcast while moving on the elliptical.
My workplace also offers wellness time: up to 3 hours a week during work hours to stay active. I use those last few hours of my day strategically—hitting the gym, then picking up a latte, or just savoring alone time before the evening rush.
Bonus hack: I bought a walking pad under my desk. It lets me move while working and has sparked some great watercooler conversations—turns out walking miles while reviewing documents is more fun than it sounds!
3. 🛑 Leave Guilt at the Door
I used to hesitate to take PTO unless it was for illness or vacation. Now? I book hair appointments, take slow afternoons, and just breathe—guilt-free.
Rest days with my toddler are sacred. We sleep in, avoid screens, and just snuggle. And sometimes I take a solo mental health day to recharge. Showing up for my child starts with showing up for myself.
4. 💬 Mental Health Is Preventative Care
When I was pregnant, I proactively found a counselor in case postpartum depression hit. Thankfully it didn’t—but when my child’s father left during that postpartum period, I had someone in my corner.
Therapy helps me navigate stress, reflect on what’s going well, and map out a hopeful path forward. Even with daily anxiety, I take it one breath, one moment at a time.
5. 💅 Self Care Isn’t Selfish
Self care, for me, is all about intentional rest.
🕒 Morning: Quiet shower, skin care, coffee
🌙 Night: Tea, favorite show or book, facial massage, or just a moment with my heated back massager
Twice a month I hire a sitter—sometimes to go on a date, sometimes just to sip coffee solo. I prioritize moments of peace because I know I’m naturally anxious and parenting solo is tough. Planning joy keeps me steady.
Final Thoughts 💖
Work-life balance as a single mom isn’t about perfection—it’s about rhythm. It’s learning to slow down in the chaos, to celebrate the wins (even if it’s folded laundry), and to remember that your well-being matters too.
If you’re doing all this and still wondering if you’re enough, I promise—you are more than enough.
The Determined Mama 