When Every Minute is Accounted For

April 13, 2012

Since becoming a mother my life has transformed into a living, breathing schedule. Every minute is accounted for, slots of time have specific activities assigned to them, routines have become critical to maintaining order and each action is pre-calculated.

Gone is a time when days were fluid and free; errands could be run at a moment’s notice, dinner plans could be made while walking out the door and “me” time was all the time.

Here are a few of my examples:

  • Talks over dinner often include coordinating calendars;
  • Trips to the gym require prior knowledge so one parent knows they are on deck;
  • Going grocery shopping involves careful planning to occur during particular hours of the day, preferably after a meal and not too close to naptime;
  • You plan your day in a series of time blocks – if we do breakfast at 8, then I can run errands and be back by naptime, then we’ll have lunch when she gets up, which gives us 2 hours at the park before dad gets home…and it goes on and on.

 Even when my husband innocently asks if I would be interested in taking our daughter to the farmer’s market on Sunday, I cringe. Not because I have some animosity towards fresh fruit but because it’s a pre-arranged event in my otherwise free-flowing weekend.

 Some of this may be contributed to my Type A personality, but certainly there is some truth to it as well. However, every time I get frustrated with my lack of freedom, or sleep for that matter, I remember that there is a very beautiful reason for it – my daughter.

How do you cope with the daily routines, schedules and details of parenthood? Do you struggle or are there tips on how to be more chill?

Post in:

Welcome tips and insights to the family:

Parenting Essentials®

The learning doesn't stop for parents, either. That’s why we created an information resource with helpful tips on everything from enriching our STEM program at home to introducing lifelong healthy eating and fitness habits.