If the prospect of entering the new year with endless to-do lists feels overwhelming, you're in the right place. We've gathered insider tips from mumpreneurs on how they expertly navigate their juggling act.
Embarking on a new year with determination feels invigorating, especially when managing both little ones and life simultaneously. The juggling act demands a repertoire of time-saving hacks and tricks to just make life easier. Whether it’s a cherished app or a meal planning technique, finding ways to reduce stress and simplify life is essential. To help you kickstart your year with a vengeance, we connected with dynamic mumpreneurs from our sister company, Launchpad, to discover the strategies that assist them in excelling at the balancing act of running successful businesses and thriving in family life. Here’s a glimpse into what helps them navigate through the challenges of the year.
2024 best mum hacks for family life
1. Keep things balanced with smart planning
“As a partner at Frolic for Life and a mom juggling two school kids, I’ve learned the value of keeping things balanced and efficient. In 2024, my mantra is resilience – bouncing back stronger from life’s curveballs. When it comes to meal planning and cooking fresh, my go-to helper in the kitchen is my trusty Thermomix. I’m all about planning ahead, though I know not every day will stick to the plan. Sneaking in a quick 10-minute morning yoga session or a run on my treadmill in between coaching sessions keeps me centred. My vision for 2024? Nurturing resilience, finding the sweet spot between family and career through smart planning and self-care. Life’s an adventure, and I’m all about staying strong through the ups and downs!”
Selina Wirz, 41, Health & Wellness Coach at Frolic For Life
2. Try bullet journaling and time-blocking
“As a career woman, entrepreneur, mother, and wife, I’ve found two essential hacks to manage it all: bullet journaling and time-blocking. Bullet journaling organises my thoughts, making everything feel less overwhelming and a lot more manageable. Time-blocking helps me maintain balance. By dedicating specific blocks for work, family, socialising, and myself, I’m able to be more present within that block. I avoid letting my mind spill between blocks, but if it does, I recognize it and address it. Recently, I had work on my mind while playing a board game, and part way through, I simply said, “Sorry, I’m not in the right headspace right now. Can we take a break while I get this done, and then we can try again?”
Victoria Chuard, 36, Founder, Just Peachy
3. Ditch the to-do list
“Forget juggling! Imagine fueling your family with shared emotions. Ditch the to-do list and harness the energy of a good laugh, a cosy cuddle, or a heartfelt adventure. Here’s how: 1. Morning Magic: Wake up with smiles, not schedules. Make breakfast a dance party, a storytelling session, or a silly face challenge. (Think pancake animals) 2. Teamwork Time: Turn chores into bonding. Let kids ‘help’ fold laundry or ‘supervise’ meal prep. 3. Adventure Awaits: Don’t wait for weekends. Explore a new park or have a movie marathon in pyjamas. Small moments, big memories. 4. Recharge Retreat: Prioritise quiet time. Let kids build Legos while you sip tea, or take turns reading aloud. Calm moms make calm homes. Remember, moms, ‘getting it all done’ isn’t the goal. It’s about creating moments and sharing feelings.”
Beata Justkowiak, 38, Psychologist and an ‘Emotion Queen’, Founder of Energising Goals
4. Wake up early in the morning
“As an entrepreneur, I have found that there are numerous hacks to increase productivity, and what works for one person may not work for another. In my case, waking up early in the morning is one of the most important hacks. By doing so, I am able to complete my workout or run before my children wake up, prepare their lunch boxes and snacks, and get myself ready for the day ahead. Starting my day with an early morning workout sets a positive tone for the rest of the day, allowing me to be more productive and alert. On Sundays, I review and update our calendars to include all the upcoming events and activities, such as MiliMilu work plans, work-related events, and school activities. This ritual helps me plan the week and create meal plans accordingly. As someone who enjoys following schedules and agendas, being well-prepared for the week ahead helps me reduce stress and stay organised.”
Linda Morrison, 37, Founder and Creative director of MiliMilu
5. Hassle-free kitchen hack
“I dislike dishwashing as it is mundane. My favourite kitchen hack? It has to be the magic clean dishwasher spray trick, a simple yet brilliant solution. I give my dishes a quick spray, then leave them for a while. When I return, a quick rinse is all it takes to make them shine like new. It’s my personal recipe for reclaiming precious time and bypassing the scrubbing grind. Say goodbye to dishpan hands and hello to hassle-free dishwashing with this ingenious hack!”
Bel Hwang, 46, Director, IB Super
And there you have it! If you’ve got a hot hack to ace the year you would like to share with us – don’t be shy! We’re all ears.
