5 Ways to Reduce Your Mental Load
Life as a mom can be overwhelming with countless decisions to make each day. Research states, on average people make 35,000 conscious and unconscious decisions every day. I would argue, moms easily exceed that daily average.
Today, I want to help you simplify your daily decision-making process, so you can reduce your mental clutter and focus on what matters most in your day.
Prioritize Your Decisions
Identify the most critical decisions you need to make each day. Focus your energy on those that align with your goals and values, and consider letting go of minor choices that don't significantly impact your family's well-being.
Helpful tip: Late afternoon is when decision fatigue sets in, so make decisions about afternoon activities, dinner, and bedtime early in the day when your mind is still fresh.
Create Routines and Systems
Establishing routines for everyday tasks can streamline decision making. When you create daily rhythms for you and your family, they will become habits which alleviates the need to make decisions for repetitive actions.
Helpful tip: Designing a morning routine can set a positive tone for the day and eliminates unnecessary choices. Your brain is always scanning for threats, so it will transmit a feeling of safety when routines are established and followed.
Limit Decision Options
Avoid decision paralysis by limiting your choices. Whether it's picking outfits for your kids or planning meals, having fewer options can simplify the decision-making process.
Helpful tip: A weekly dinner menu like: Taco Tuesdays, Leftover Wednesdays, or Pizza Fridays can save you loads of time and mental energy. Making these decisions once but giving yourself the freedom to change monthly or seasonally can alleviate meal boredom.
Take a Breath
Mindfulness techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation, can help you stay centered and focused amidst the chaos of daily life. This sense of calm will enhance your decision-making abilities.
Helpful tip: When you feel overwhelmed or unsure of what decision to make, pause and take 3 deep breaths. Neurologically this is a simple but effective reset for your brain and body to step out of fight or flight mode and give you the ability to make a clearer choice in a calmer state.
Delegate Decision Making
Involve your partner or older children in decision making whenever possible. Sharing the responsibility will lighten your load and empower others to take initiative.
Helpful tip: Make a quick list of 3-5 low hanging fruit decisions you can invite your family to help with. You may be surprised how much lighter you'll feel when you get a few things off your mental to-do list.
If you enjoyed these tips, you're going to love my "Calm the Crazy" Guide . I’ll go more in depth on how to tame your to-do list and clear your calendar clutter. You can download your free copy HERE.
Always rooting for you!
Melina
Melina is the founder of Melina Kane Coaching, a Professional Home Organizing Business in Texas (servicing Austin, Cedar Park, Round Rock, Georgetown, and Pflugerville). She loves creating effortless systems that support your everyday life. She’s an Enneagram 2 + recovering perfectionist whose never met a stranger, so come say Hi! on Instagram @cultivateyourlegacy.
