Tackling the To-Do List As a Single Mother

Tackling the To-Do List as a Single Mom: Eliminate the Frustration and Find Balance in the Chaos

School Drop-Off. Workout. Groceries. Work. Laundry. School Pick-Up. Doctor’s appointment. Help with homework. Clean Up. Bedtime prep. Self-Care.

Sound familiar? Being a single mom means wearing all the hats —nurturer, provider, cook, cleaner, and sometimes, even a coach or cheerleader. It’s a lot to juggle, and the to-do list seems to get longer every day. People might think you just throw on your superwoman cape and somehow it all falls into place. If only, right? The truth is, with a little bit of strategy, it’s possible to keep all the balls in the air without losing your sanity. Here’s how you can tackle your to-do list and find balance in the beautiful chaos of single motherhood.

1. Prioritize Like a Pro

When you’ve got a million things to do, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. The first step is to prioritize. I always start with the non-negotiables—making sure the kids are good and have what they need is top priority. Everything else falls in line after that. Each day, I identify the top three things that absolutely need to get done and focus on those. If I can tackle more, great! If not, I know I’ve handled the most important tasks.

2. Embrace the Power of Routine

Routines are a lifesaver when you’re a single mom. Having a consistent schedule helps you know what to expect, and help keeps the day running smoothly. For most moms, mornings start early as the house preps for school and work. After the school/workday, stick to a predictable routine. This may be homework, extracurricular activities, dinner, bath, and bedtime. Knowing what’s coming next takes some of the stress out of the day and frees up mental space for other things. Even scheduling these tasks as you would a meeting for work on your calendar and setting notifications, can make the day much more efficient.

3. Outsource and Ask for Help

One of the biggest lessons you can learn as a single mom is that you don’t have to do it all by yourself. Whether it’s leaning on family or friends or hiring a service to clean the house once a month, outsourcing some tasks can be a game-changer. It’s okay to ask for help. Remember, it takes a village!

4. Multitask Where It Makes Sense

As a single mom, multitasking is often a must. Combine tasks where you can—like working out while your child plays at the park or brainstorming ideas for your new business while cooking dinner. But not everything should be multitasked. Some moments, like reading a bedtime story with your child or enjoying rare moments of self-care, deserve your full attention.

5. Make Time for You

This one is crucial. With so much on your plate, it’s easy to put yourself last. But self-care isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. Even if it’s just 15 minutes with a face steamer and your favorite playlist after the kids are asleep, or a quick workout or walk to clear your mind, make sure to carve out a little time each day just for you. When you take care of yourself, you’re better equipped to take care of everything and everyone else.

6. Be Flexible and Forgiving

No matter how well you plan, life with kids is unpredictable. There will be days when nothing goes according to schedule, and that’s okay. Being flexible and forgiving yourself when things don’t get done is key to staying sane. Some days, the laundry can wait, or the groceries get picked up tomorrow instead of today. The world won’t end if everything on the list doesn’t get checked off.

7. Celebrate the Small Wins

At the end of the day, it’s important to recognize and celebrate the small wins. Did you get your child to school on time and without any tears? Did you manage to squeeze in a workout? Did you tackle that one big task at work? These are all victories, and they deserve to be acknowledged. Every step forward is progress, even if it doesn’t always feel like it.

Being a single mom is no easy feat, and the to-do list can feel never-ending. But with a little planning, a lot of support, and a healthy dose of self-compassion, you can tackle it one task at a time. Remember, you’re doing an amazing job—don’t forget to give yourself credit for all that you accomplish each day. Keep going, mama! You’ve got this.