Look, I know what you’re thinking. “Sarah, are you actually telling me to add another job to my already overflowing to-do list?” Yes. Yes, I am. But before you roll your eyes and click away, hear me out – because this tiny change has literally transformed my week.
I had a mini meltdown (okay, maybe not so mini you can read about it HERE) after spending yet another morning running around like a headless chicken, counting to ten before even feeding the dog his breakfast. Why? Because I was always chasing my tail.
So, this week, I tried something radical. I blocked out my entire week – every task, every responsibility, and every chaotic moment. And guess what I discovered? I do nothing for myself. No “me” time. Some days, I wasn’t even eating or drinking properly until it was too late. Yikes.
It was like looking in the mirror and seeing a frazzled, caffeine-fueled, slightly unhinged version of myself. I knew I had to change something. So, I committed to planning for tomorrow, today. And let me tell you, my future self is currently dancing around, living her best life, all because past Sarah finally showed her some sympathy.
And now, because I love you and want you to thrive too, I’m sharing the top tips that changed my life this week:
1. Get up before the rest of the family.
Even if it’s just 10 minutes. Trust me, sipping your coffee in peace instead of gulping it while running out the door with one shoe on is a game-changer. I’ve been waking up an hour earlier, and it has made a huge difference to my mood and sanity.
2. Get everything ready the night before.
School bags? Packed. Work stuff? Sorted. Clothes? Laid out, so I’m not standing half-naked, screaming, “I HAVE NOTHING TO WEAR!” in the morning. Your future self will thank you.
3. Get fresh air.
Walk during your lunch break. Park further away from school drop-off. Do something to get outside. Fresh air and daylight are essential for your soul (and your sanity).
4. Be kinder to yourself.
This one is hard because, let’s be honest, we are our own worst critics. But I’m making a conscious effort to give myself a compliment every day – even if it’s just “Wow, Sarah, your eyeliner is almost even today!” Small wins count.
Your Challenge: Download the Planner & Do the Task!
I highly recommend taking 10 minutes to block out your week. It’s quick, easy, and the results will blow your mind. I’ll link it HERE, and I’d love to hear how it works for you!
Let’s stop chasing our tails and start giving our future selves a break. You in?
Hi Sarah,
Those are great tips, straightforward and practical, that anyone can do. I have a terrible habit of rushing everything in the morning before work. Planning our days ahead is a habit we must adopt; it will help us in our business and life. Thanks for reminding us.
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Thank you. It’s a habit I intend to keep- I’ve been doing it for 2 weeks now and I feel so much better. My days are certainly running smoother!
Sarah, I can relate to the chaos of always feeling one step behind, especially when juggling work, family, and personal goals. Blocking out my week in advance sounds like a simple but powerful shift—I’ve often found myself skipping meals or losing track of time because everything feels urgent. Waking up earlier is something I’ve been trying, and I agree that having even a little quiet time in the morning makes a huge difference. I’m going to give your planning method a shot because my future self definitely needs a break.
Thanks Atif. There is a lot to juggle, and I’ve found planning more is making it run a bit smoother. My first hour is the best, so calm and peaceful when everyone else is sleeping. Just reach out if you need anything.
Hi Sarah,
I love the idea of planning ahead to make life less stressful. I’m already a planner, so this really helps me stay on track. I’ve had those chaotic mornings where everything feels rushed, and blocking out the day the night before really makes a difference. It’s definitely been a big help in making my mornings run more smoothly. Thanks for sharing these tips!
Meredith
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Already a planner! I need some tips! Blocking the day out does really make a difference, it’s certainly a habit I’m going to keep! Thank you for your support.
Hi Sarah – I love everything about this post! It should be required reading not only for moms and dads but for anybody who is feeling overwhelmed and sometimes underwhelmed at what they are able to accomplish. Taking the necessary time to not only document our activities, but understand how we spend our time is so vitally important. This gives us the opportunity to block out time for self-care in addition to caring for everybody else. Many of us are guilty of neglecting our own well-being and eventually that trickles down to the care we are able to give to our people and later on to our business. I love your checklist! It is easy to follow and very convicting it filled out properly. Thank you for this motivation and for your valuable posts every single week! You’ve inspired me to take a break and go take a walk. I bet my pretty wife will want to go :).
I know first hand how important a morning routine is for starting out a day. Meditation is my go to. I administer a Course In Miracles FB page which sets my head straight, too. And gratitude pauses help throughout the day help, too. Pausing and breathing-
I may start making my videos outdoors. Early Spring is upon us!