Reset & Reclaim
Why Working Moms Need to Stop Chasing Balance and Start Owning Their Time
We hear it all the time: “You just need balance.” But for working moms, that word can feel like a trap. One more thing to chase. One more expectation to meet. One more measuring stick we don’t need.Here’s the truth—balance is not a goal, it’s a decision. And it’s time we stopped chasing the illusion of “perfect balance” and started claiming something much more powerful: ownership over our time.As a mom of three—with kids ranging from toddler to teen—and with 18+ years of experience in the high-stress restaurant and hospitality world, I know what it means to juggle. But I also know that doing all the things doesn’t mean you’re doing the right things.Balance isn’t about doing everything evenly. It’s about doing what matters with intention. That’s where your momentum begins.
1. Ditch the Guilt
You are not meant to be everything to everyone every day. Some days your career will get more of you. Some days your kids will. That’s not failure—that’s real life. Let go of guilt so you can show up fully where it counts.
2. Define Your Daily Priorities
Instead of trying to “do it all,” choose three priorities that align with your values: one for work, one for family, one for yourself. Examples: submit the report, read one book with your child, take a 10-minute walk. That’s enough. You’re enough.
3. Time Ownership > Time Management
Traditional time management can feel like just another control tactic. Flip the script: own your time. Block off space for what matters. Protect your boundaries. Decide how your time is used—before others decide for you.
4. Embrace Rhythms, Not Rigid Schedules
Schedules are great until your toddler spills cereal on your work pants. Instead of trying to control every minute, create flexible rhythms. Anchor your day with key habits (a morning reset, midday check-in, evening wind-down) and let the rest ebb and flow.
5. Start Small, Build Strong
Reclaiming your time doesn’t have to be a life overhaul. Start with one block of your day. Maybe it’s claiming your morning before the kids wake up. Maybe it’s turning off email after 6 p.m. Small changes lead to lasting results.
6. Redefine Balance as Alignment
Balance isn’t about splitting your life 50/50. It’s about aligning your energy with your values. When your time reflects what matters to you, that’s real balance.The myth of perfect balance is exhausting. But the practice of intentional ownership? That’s empowering.Let’s stop chasing—and start reclaiming. Your time is yours. Let’s use it like it matters—because it does.You’ve got this. And I’ve got your back.