As a mom of three, I know firsthand how easy it is to feel like life is all chaos, all the time. Between keeping up with the kids, managing the house, and running a business, I’ve had to find habits, routines, and mindsets that actually work—not just in theory but in the real, often messy world of motherhood.

Over the years, I’ve honed in on a few go-to strategies that help me show up as the calm, present, and intentional mom I want to be. These little shifts have made a big difference in how I feel, how my days flow, and how connected I am to my family (and myself!). Today, I’m sharing them with you, hoping they bring a little more peace and joy into your home, too!

1. Shower And Get Ready Daily

I know it sounds simple, but this one is huge for me. Every morning, I get dressed in real clothes, do my hair, and put on makeup. When I look good, I feel good—it’s as if I’m signaling to my brain that I’m ready for the day. Even if the day is filled with laundry and park playdates, it helps me show up with more confidence and energy.

2. Use a Calendar, Not a To-Do List

I used to live by long, never-ending to-do lists that only made me feel behind. Now, I put everything on my calendar—from work tasks to rest time to playtime with the kids. If it’s important, it gets a spot in my schedule. It’s helped me focus on what matters most and cut down on that nagging feeling that I’m forgetting something.

Time Management Resources:

3. Carve Out Playtime With No Screens

Dedicated, undistracted time with my kids is a game-changer. Whether it’s building Legos, going for a walk, or having dance parties in the living room, being fully present helps us connect on a deeper level. And honestly, it fills my cup too—I end up feeling so much more joy and gratitude.

4. Think About Being A Mom Like A High-Performance Job

I treat motherhood with the same respect, strategy, and preparation I gave my legal career. I set goals, evaluate what’s working, and adjust when needed. It’s not about perfection but about being intentional. When I approach my days with this mindset, I’m more patient, prepared, and proactive.

Inside the Mom On Purpose Membership I teach an entire course on this topic: Learn more about Mom On Purpose Membership here.

5. Have A Good Attitude

Attitude is everything. When I focus on what’s going right instead of what’s wrong, my entire day shifts. I try to bring a sense of gratitude and humor into our home—even on the hard days.

6. Adopt The Mindset “I Am A Calm Mom”

I’m a big believer in identity statements. Repeating “I am a calm mom” helps me embody that energy, especially during the chaotic moments. It’s like a little reminder to breathe, slow down, and respond instead of react.

Calm Resources:

7. Get Out Of The House Daily With Littles

Fresh air works wonders—for all of us. Whether it’s a quick walk around the block or a full-on park adventure, getting out of the house helps break up the day and resets our moods. Plus, it usually means better naps and bedtime for the kids, which is always a win!

8. Parent With The Mindset “All Feelings Are Welcome, All Actions Are Not”

I want my kids to know it’s okay to feel everything—joy, anger, frustration, sadness. But I also set clear boundaries around how we act on those feelings. This mindset helps me navigate big emotions (mine included!) with more empathy and structure.

Parenting Resources:

9. Untie Your Goodness From House Chores

You are not a better mom if your house is clean. Your kids aren’t going to remember if the laundry was done; they’re going to remember how their mom felt. This is really about perfectionism—where you think you’re “good” if you DO more. It’s simply not true!

When you overcome perfectionism you won’t be so bothered by every day challenges. CLICK HERE to take my Overcoming Perfectionism Mini Course.

10. Maintain A Structured Routine Even On “Off” Days

Structure isn’t the enemy of freedom—in our house, it’s the key to it. Having a routine gives us more freedom to enjoy lazy Sundays or manage busy weekdays with less stress. I find that when the kids know what to expect, they’re more at ease too.

These habits aren’t about being perfect—they’re about finding what works and letting go of what doesn’t. Some days, it all clicks. Other days, it’s a mess. But having these tools in my back pocket helps me handle the hard days with a little more grace and a lot more love.

A Final Note

I hope these habits, routines, and mindsets spark a little inspiration for your own mom life. Remember, this isn’t about perfection—it’s about finding what works for you and letting go of what doesn’t. Some days, everything falls into place, and other days, it’s pure chaos (trust me, I’ve been there).

But having these tools in my back pocket helps me handle the ups and downs with more grace and a lot more love. If you’d like to hear more, I dive even deeper into this topic on my latest podcast episode—be sure to give it a listen!

UP NEXT: Listen to the podcast, “My Favorite Habits, Routines, And Mindsets As A Mom Of Three“