Are you feeling like you’re always juggling a million things, trying to squeeze work into every spare moment?

Trust me, I’ve been there. As a mom of two, running multiple businesses, and homeschooling, I know the struggle is real.

But what if I told you there’s a way to take control of your time and actually get stuff done without losing your mind? Buckle up, because we’re about to dive into the game-changing world of planned work times!

The “Work Whenever You Can” Trap

Let’s be real for a second.

How many of us have fallen into the trap of the “naptime hustle” or the “early morning grind”?

You know, those little pockets of time when we frantically try to get work done while the kids are asleep or occupied?

I remember those days all too well.

I’d be typing away on my laptop, one ear constantly listening for the baby monitor, feeling like I was never fully focused on anything.

Sound familiar?

Here’s the thing: working in those stolen moments might feel productive, but it’s actually setting us up for burnout and frustration.

Why? Because we’re never truly present in either our work or our family life.

It’s time to change things up!

Your Secret Weapon: Planned Work Times

Okay, so here’s the deal. The key to transforming your work life (and your sanity) is creating planned work times. Think of them like power hours for your business.

Here’s how to make it happen:

1. Dream Up Your Ideal Week: Take a step back and think about what you really want your week to look like. Don’t just focus on what you need to get done – think about who you want to become. (Pretty cool idea, right?)
2. List Everything Out: Write down all those tasks swimming around in your head. Client work, marketing, paperwork – get it all out!
3. Group Similar Tasks: Put those tasks into groups. It’s like giving your to-do list a makeover.
4. Work When You’re at Your Best: Pay attention to when you’re most alert and focused.
   For me, it’s first thing in the morning. Plan your toughest tasks (like creative work or important meetings) during your best times.
5. Stick to a Routine: Try to keep your schedule as similar as possible from week to week. Your brain will thank you!

But What About the Kids?

I know what you’re thinking.

“Ashley, this sounds great, but I’ve got young kids at home. How am I supposed to have uninterrupted work time?”

Believe me, I get it.

But here’s a little tough love: if you keep telling yourself that working in chaotic spurts is your only option, that’s exactly what it’ll be.

It’s time to get creative, mama! Maybe you can swap childcare with another mom, hire a helper for a few hours a week, or adjust your work hours to when your partner is home.

There are so many possibilities if you open your mind to them.

Remember: You’re in charge of your life and business. It’s time to start acting like it!

Change Your Thinking, Change Your Life

Let’s talk about how we think for a sec.

If you’re constantly thinking, “I don’t have enough time” or “This is just how it has to be right now,” guess what?

You’re stuck in a negative thought pattern, mama.

Instead, try this on for size: “I have the power to create the schedule I want.” or “There are creative solutions I haven’t thought of yet.”

It’s amazing how changing your thoughts can open up a world of possibilities!

The Magic of Focused Time

Here’s a little secret that changed my life:

I’d rather have two hours of uninterrupted work time than 10 hours of interrupted time.

Why? Because focused work is like a superpower.

Think about it like this: Remember in school when the bell would ring, and you’d pack up your science stuff and head to math class? You didn’t keep working on science during math, right? (If you did, I bet your math teacher wasn’t too happy!)

Treat your work times the same way. When it’s time for marketing, focus on marketing.

When it’s time for client work, dive into that. This laser focus will make your productivity skyrocket!

Real Talk: It Takes Practice

Now, I’m not gonna sugarcoat it. Creating and sticking to planned work times takes practice.

There will be days when things don’t go as planned (hello, surprise diaper blowouts and impromptu snuggle sessions).

But here’s the thing: progress over perfection, always.
Start small, be consistent, and watch how your productivity (and peace of mind) transform over time.

Your Action Plan

Ready to reclaim your time and sanity? Here’s your action plan:

1. Grab a pen and paper (or open up your favorite notes app) and start mapping out your ideal week.
2. Find 2-3 possible work times in your current schedule.
3. List out your main work categories.
4. Match those categories to your work times, thinking about when you’re at your best.
5. Try it out for 2-4 weeks, then look it over and adjust as needed.

Remember, this isn’t about creating a perfect schedule overnight.
It’s about taking small steps towards a more intentional, productive work life.

You’ve Got This, Mama!

I know making changes can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re already juggling so much. But trust me, taking control of your work times is a game-changer.

Imagine feeling focused and productive during your work time, and then being fully present with your family without the nagging guilt of unfinished tasks.

It’s not just a dream – it can be your reality!

So, what do you say?

Are you ready to transform your work times and start living that mom business owner life you’ve been dreaming of?

I’m cheering for you every step of the way!

Now, I’d love to hear from you!

What’s your biggest takeaway from this post?

Share a screenshot on Instagram and tag me @thepurposegathering – let’s inspire other mamas to take control of their time!

Until next time, keep shining that beautiful light of yours. You’re doing amazing things, even when you don’t realize it.

And remember, a well-planned day leads to a successful (and sane) life!

Thank you for spending part of your day with me.

And as always, mama, I am here rooting for you and you are not alone on this journey.

Complimentary Episodes:

1. Ep 183. Transform Your Workday Starting with a Strategic Business Meeting
2. Ep 182. Hidden Time Wasters in Your Business
3. Ep 172. Up-Level Your Time Management Skills
4. Ep. 130 My Favorite Productivity Tools
5. Ep 53. These 5 Mistakes are Sabotaging Your Productivity
6. Ep 36. Maximize Your Productivity with Minimal Time
7. Browse All Productivity Related Episodes

Resources:

1. Ideal Week Blueprint – Get the clarity and tools you need to take control of your calendar and align your week with your goals and priorities.
2. Join the Profit Shift Challenge – 14 Day challenge to to Optimize Your Limited Time & Maximize your Revenue as a Mompreneur 
3. Need support managing your time well and creating systems to streamline your Photography Business? Join the Efficient Mompreneur (12 Month Group Coaching Program)
4. Message me on Voxer (My username is afreehan)
5. Have a question for me? Or a specific struggle you’re dealing with? I’ll address your question on the podcast. Submit your ‘Ask Ashley’ question here
6. Local to Gilbert/Mesa Arizona (For Mom Business Owners) Join our in person membership community