Nurturing entrepreneurial mindset in kids

by with No Comment Motherhood/Parenting


Teaching your children about entrepreneurship can be an incredibly rewarding experience. Not only does it introduce them to important life skills, but it also fosters creativity, financial literacy, and a strong work ethic from a young age. In this article, we’ll explore fun and educational activities that can help you instill an entrepreneurial spirit in your kids while spending quality time together

1. Lemonade Stand:

One of the classic ways to introduce kids to entrepreneurship is by setting up a lemonade stand. It teaches them the basics of supply and demand, pricing, budgeting, and customer service. Encourage your children to plan, set goals, and manage their profits.

2. DIY Craft Sales:

Organize DIY craft sessions where your kids can create handmade items like friendship bracelets, artwork, or homemade candles. Once they’ve built their inventory, help them host a mini craft sale at a local market or online. This activity teaches them about product development, marketing, and sales.

3. Allowance Management:

Encourage them to divide their money into spending, saving, and donating categories. This helps them learn about financial responsibility and the power of saving.

4. Mini-Business Ventures:

Inspire your children to come up with small business ideas. Guide them through the process of advertising, setting prices, and managing their schedules. This allows them to experience the responsibilities of running a small venture.

5. Entrepreneurial Books and Games:

Introduce your kids to books and board games that promote entrepreneurial thinking. Titles like “The Lemonade War” by Jacqueline Davies or board games like “Monopoly” can be both fun and educational, teaching them valuable lessons in decision-making and strategy.

6. Visit Local Businesses:

Take your children on field trips to local businesses or farms to meet real entrepreneurs. This can be an eye-opening experience, as they see how different businesses operate and interact with the people who run them.

7. Young Entrepreneurs’ Associations:

Look for youth entrepreneurship programs or clubs in your area. Joining such associations can help your kids connect with like-minded peers and participate in entrepreneurial competitions or events.

Conclusion

Teaching your kids about entrepreneurship through fun and educational activities not only equips them with essential life skills but also ignites their creativity and self-confidence. By engaging in activities like lemonade stands, craft sales, and allowance management, you can inspire the next generation of innovative thinkers and business leaders. Encourage them to dream big, set goals, and take the first steps towards becoming young entrepreneurs with a bright future ahead.

Empowering Ghanaian Moms: The Transformative Role of Mom Support Groups

by with No Comment Featured MomsLifestyleMotherhood/Parenting

In a powerful, united effort to uplift and empower mothers across Ghana, mom support groups have emerged as indispensable tools for strength, solidarity, and support. These groups, forged by like-minded women who intimately understand the unique challenges and joys of motherhood, offer a safe haven for Ghanaian mothers to unite, share their experiences, and draw strength from the collective wisdom of their peers. In this blog post, we’ll explore the incredible benefits of joining these mom support groups, revealing how they foster personal growth, cultivate enduring friendships, and ultimately empower mothers throughout Ghana to navigate the beautiful yet demanding journey of motherhood with unwavering confidence and resilience.

Top Mom Support Groups in Ghana for Business Moms: An In-Depth Overview

1. Single Mothers’ Association (SMA)

2. Supporting Parents

3. WeMompreneurs

The Significance of Mom Support Groups in Ghana

In Ghana, mom support groups play a pivotal role in empowering mothers and promoting their overall well-being. These groups offer a platform for moms to connect, find solace, and gain invaluable insights into motherhood. By catering to both new and experienced mothers, they foster a profound sense of community and sisterhood.

1. Emotional Support and Mental Well-Being

1.1 Creating a Safe Space for Emotions
Being a mom is not always a walk in the park. Mom support groups provide a non-judgmental environment where mothers can openly express their emotions, be it the elation of a milestone or the weariness of sleepless nights. This candid sharing of emotions among kindred spirits eases stress and brings profound relief.

1.2 Diminishing Feelings of Isolation
Motherhood can at times feel isolating, particularly for first-time mothers. These groups act as lifelines, connecting women who might otherwise grapple with solitude in their daily challenges. Joining such groups combats loneliness as moms find solace in shared experiences and the empathy of others navigating similar paths.

1.3 Coping with Postpartum Challenges
Postpartum depression and anxiety are genuine concerns many women face after childbirth. Mom support groups provide a support system where mothers can openly discuss their mental health challenges. Sharing experiences and receiving encouragement from fellow moms who’ve overcome similar hurdles can be pivotal in coping and seeking professional assistance.

2. Sharing Experiences and Gaining Insights

2.1 Learning from Fellow Moms’ Experiences
Among the chief benefits of joining a mom support group is the opportunity to learn from the experiences of other mothers. Whether it’s mastering breastfeeding techniques, sleep training, or handling temper tantrums, a wealth of knowledge is shared among group members. These shared experiences offer practical insights and alternative approaches to common parenting challenges.

2.2 Peer-to-Peer Advice and Support
Mom support groups serve as a unique platform for peer-to-peer advice and support. As mothers navigate the ups and downs of parenting, they can lean on the group for guidance. Whether seeking potty training tips or recommendations for child-friendly activities, the collective wisdom of the group can be invaluable in finding effective solutions.

2.3 Navigating Common Challenges Together
Raising children comes with its fair share of challenges. Mom support groups provide a network of women who can lend a helping hand during difficult times. From illnesses and picky eaters to school transitions and sibling rivalry, having a supportive community can make these challenges more manageable and less overwhelming.

3. Practical Advice on Parenting and Child Development

3.1 Expert-Led Discussions and Workshops
Many mom support groups in Ghana organize expert-led discussions and workshops on various parenting and child development topics. These sessions offer evidence-based information, practical strategies, and valuable insights from professionals in the field. By attending these events, moms can enhance their parenting skills and gain a deeper understanding of their child’s growth and development.

3.2 Tips for Effective Parenting Techniques
Mom support groups are treasure troves of parenting tips and techniques. From positive discipline strategies to effective communication with children, moms can learn and share practical advice within the group. These tips empower mothers to develop their own unique parenting style and create a nurturing environment for their children.

3.3 Understanding Child Development Stages
Understanding child development stages is crucial for any parent. Mom support groups provide a platform for mothers to learn about the physical, cognitive, and emotional milestones their children will reach. This knowledge helps moms better support their child’s growth and development and equips them with realistic expectations at each stage.

Join a Mom Support Group in Ghana and Experience the Difference

In conclusion, mom support groups in Ghana offer a multitude of benefits and play a vital role in the lives of mothers. From emotional support and shared experiences to practical advice and empowerment, these groups provide a supportive network that can enhance the journey of motherhood. By joining these groups, moms not only gain valuable insights but also form lasting friendships and contribute to positive change in their communities. So, if you’re a mother in Ghana looking for connection, support, and personal growth, consider joining a mom support group and experience the incredible benefits it can bring to your life.


What to do when motherhood seems to be overwhelming

by with No Comment HealthLifestyleMotherhood/Motherhood/Parenting

Motherhood is a journey filled with love, joy, and fulfillment, but it can also be incredibly overwhelming. The endless responsibilities, sleepless nights, and constant demands on your time and energy can leave you feeling drained and stretched thin. It’s important to remember that you are not alone in these feelings. Many mothers experience moments when they question their ability to handle it all. In this article, we will explore practical strategies and valuable insights to help you navigate the challenges of motherhood when it seems overwhelming. From understanding the nature of overwhelm to building support systems, prioritizing self-care, and seeking professional help if needed, you’ll discover effective ways to regain balance, find moments of peace, and embrace the beautiful chaos of motherhood.

1. Understanding the Overwhelming Nature of Motherhood

The Myth of Perfect Motherhood

Let’s start by debunking the myth of perfect motherhood. You know the one – where mothers effortlessly juggle all responsibilities, have perfectly organized homes, and wear a permanent smile on their faces. Well, newsflash: that myth is as unrealistic as finding a unicorn in your backyard. Motherhood is messy, chaotic, and oftentimes overwhelming. And that’s okay!

The Reality of Motherhood Challenges

Motherhood comes with its fair share of challenges. From sleep deprivation to endless diaper changes, tantrums to never-ending laundry, it’s no wonder that sometimes you feel like running away to a deserted island. But remember, you are not alone in this. Every mother experiences moments of overwhelm, doubt, and frustration. So take solace in the fact that you’re part of an exclusive club that embraces the chaos of motherhood.

2. Recognizing and Addressing Feelings of Stress and Burnout

Identifying Signs of Overwhelm

Recognizing the signs of overwhelm is the first step towards addressing it. Are you constantly exhausted, snapping at everyone around you, or feeling like you can’t keep up with the demands of motherhood? These are all red flags that you may be teetering on the edge of burnout. Pay attention to your emotions and physical well-being to identify when you need to intervene.

Understanding the Impact of Stress on Mental and Physical Health

Stress isn’t just an inconvenience; it can have a profound impact on your mental and physical health. Prolonged periods of stress can lead to anxiety, depression, and even physical ailments. As a mother, it’s crucial to prioritize your well-being for the sake of yourself and your family.

Developing Coping Strategies for Stress Management

Once you’ve recognized the signs of stress and burnout, it’s time to develop coping strategies. Find healthy outlets for stress, whether it’s exercise, meditation, or indulging in guilty pleasures (hello, chocolate!). Remember, self-care is not selfish; it’s a necessity for your mental and emotional well-being.

3. Seeking Support Systems: Building a Strong Network

Fostering Relationships with Other Mothers

One of the best ways to combat overwhelm is by building a strong support network of fellow moms. Seek out friendships with other mothers who understand the highs and lows of motherhood. Sharing experiences, tips, and even the occasional vent session can be incredibly therapeutic and reassuring.

Utilizing Family Support and Involvement

Don’t underestimate the power of family support. Whether it’s your partner, parents, or siblings, lean on them for help. Accepting assistance doesn’t make you any less of a capable mother; it simply acknowledges that you’re human and could use an extra set of hands.

Exploring Online Communities and Motherhood Groups

In the digital age, finding support is just a click away. Explore online communities and motherhood groups where you can connect with like-minded individuals facing similar challenges. These groups can provide a sense of belonging and invaluable advice from experienced moms who have been there, done that.

4. Prioritizing Self-Care: Strategies for Recharging and Rejuvenating

The Importance of Self-Care for Mental Well-being

Self-care is not an indulgence; it’s a crucial component of maintaining your mental well-being. Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup. Taking care of yourself allows you to be a better mother for your child.

Practical Self-Care Ideas for Busy Moms

Finding time for self-care amidst the chaos of motherhood can be a challenge. Start small by incorporating simple self-care activities into your daily routine. This could mean stealing a few minutes for a relaxing bath, indulging in your favorite book, or enjoying a cup of coffee in peace. Remember, self-care doesn’t have to be elaborate; it just needs to be intentional.

Scheduling “Me” Time and Setting Boundaries

No one else will prioritize your well-being unless you do it yourself. Schedule “me” time on your calendar and treat it as non-negotiable. Communicate your boundaries with your family and advocate for what you need. Remember, taking care of yourself is not a luxury; it’s a necessity for your overall happiness and sanity.

So, dear overwhelmed mother, take a deep breath and know that you’re doing an incredible job. Embrace the messy, unpredictable journey of motherhood while also prioritizing your own well-being. You’ve got this!

5. Embracing Imperfections: Letting Go of Perfectionism in Motherhood

Redefining Success in Motherhood

When it comes to motherhood, it’s time to redefine what success means. We often put immense pressure on ourselves to be the perfect mother, but the truth is, perfection doesn’t exist. Embracing imperfections means recognizing that we’re doing the best we can, and that’s more than enough. Success in motherhood is not measured by having a spotless house or always having the right answers. It’s about love, care, and being present for our children.

Managing Expectations and Practicing Self-Compassion

One of the biggest causes of overwhelm in motherhood is unrealistic expectations. We have this image of what a “good mother” should be, and we constantly compare ourselves to it. It’s time to let go of those expectations and practice self-compassion. Understand that it’s okay to make mistakes and that you are worthy of love and care, both from yourself and others. Treat yourself with kindness and remember that you’re doing an incredible job, even in the midst of chaos.

Celebrating Small Wins and Progress

Motherhood is full of small victories that often go unnoticed. Take a moment to celebrate those wins, no matter how small they may seem. Did you manage to get everyone dressed and fed in the morning? That’s a win. Did you find a few peaceful minutes to play with your child? That’s a win too. Acknowledging and celebrating these small moments helps shift the focus from overwhelm to progress. Every step forward is worth applauding.

6. Creating a Healthy Work-Life Balance: Managing Responsibilities Effectively

Establishing Clear Boundaries between Work and Family Life

Balancing work and motherhood can be a juggling act, but it’s crucial to establish clear boundaries between the two. Set dedicated work hours and communicate them with your employer or clients. When you’re with your family, try to be fully present and avoid getting caught up in work. By creating a separation between work and family life, you can give your full attention to each without feeling overwhelmed by the other.

Time Management Techniques for Maximizing Productivity

Time management becomes essential when you’re a busy mom. Start by prioritizing tasks and organizing your day. Use techniques like batching similar tasks together or breaking larger tasks into smaller, manageable chunks. Set realistic deadlines and learn to say no when necessary. Remember, you can’t do it all, and that’s okay. By effectively managing your time, you can alleviate some of the overwhelm and accomplish more with less stress.

Delegating Tasks and Sharing Responsibilities

You don’t have to do everything on your own. Delegate tasks and share responsibilities with your partner, family members, or friends. This might include delegating household chores, asking for help with childcare, or seeking support from a trusted network. Remember, asking for help is not a sign of weakness but a way to lighten your load. Sharing responsibilities allows you to focus on what truly matters and gives others a chance to contribute and bond with your child.

7. Exploring Coping Mechanisms: Tools and Techniques for Managing Overwhelm

Deep Breathing and Mindfulness Exercises

When motherhood feels overwhelming, take a moment to pause, breathe deeply, and practice mindfulness. Deep breathing techniques can help calm your mind and reduce stress. Incorporate mindfulness exercises into your routine, such as meditation or simply focusing on the present moment. These practices can provide a sense of grounding and clarity amidst the chaos.

Journaling and Emotional Release Techniques

Expressing your thoughts and emotions through journaling can be incredibly therapeutic. Take a few minutes each day to jot down your feelings, frustrations, and joys. This practice allows you to release pent-up emotions and gain perspective. Additionally, consider engaging in activities that help you release stress, such as practicing yoga, painting, or listening to music. Find what works best for you and make it a regular part of your self-care routine.

Engaging in Physical Activity and Exercise

Physical activity is not only beneficial for your overall health but can also be a fantastic way to manage overwhelm. Engaging in regular exercise releases endorphins, which promote feelings of happiness and reduce stress. Find an activity you enjoy, whether it’s going for a walk, dancing, or joining a fitness class. Even short bursts of movement throughout the day can make a significant difference in your overall well-being.

8. Seeking Professional Help: When and How to Seek Therapy or Counseling

Recognizing the Need for Professional Support

Sometimes, despite our best efforts, motherhood overwhelm can feel unmanageable. It’s essential to recognize when you might need professional support. If you’re consistently feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed, it might be time to reach out for help. Remember, seeking therapy or counseling is a brave and proactive step towards taking care of yourself and improving your mental well-being.

Researching and Choosing the Right Therapist

When seeking professional help, take the time to research and find the right therapist for you. Look for someone experienced in working with mothers or individuals facing similar challenges. Read reviews and ask for recommendations within your community. Trust and comfort with your therapist are crucial, so don’t hesitate to meet with several professionals before making a decision. It’s important to find someone who understands and supports you on your journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is it normal to feel overwhelmed as a mother?

Yes, feeling overwhelmed is a common experience for many mothers. The expectations and responsibilities of motherhood can be demanding and can lead to feelings of stress and exhaustion. It’s important to remember that you are not alone in this, and seeking support and implementing self-care strategies can help manage these feelings.

2. How can I find support as a overwhelmed mother?

Finding support is crucial when you are feeling overwhelmed. Reach out to other mothers in your community, join online parenting groups, or seek family and friends who can offer assistance. Building a support network can provide you with emotional support, practical help, and a sense of camaraderie.

3. What are some practical self-care ideas for overwhelmed mothers?

Taking care of yourself is essential to managing overwhelm. Some practical self-care ideas include carving out “me” time, engaging in activities that bring you joy, practicing mindfulness or meditation, prioritizing sleep, and seeking professional help if needed. Remember, self-care is not selfish but necessary for your well-being.

4. When should I consider seeking professional help for overwhelm?

While it’s normal to feel overwhelmed at times, if your feelings of overwhelm persist and significantly impact your daily life and well-being, it may be beneficial to seek professional help. Consider reaching out to a therapist or counselor who specializes in maternal mental health to provide you with the support and guidance you may need.

HEALTH TIPS FOR BUSY MOMPRENEURS

by with No Comment HealthMotherhood/Parenting

Being a mum entrepreneur can often feel like a juggling act, balancing family responsibilities with running a successful business. With countless demands on your time and energy, it’s easy to neglect your own health and well-being. However, taking care of yourself is crucial for maintaining the energy and focus needed to tackle the challenges of entrepreneurship and family life. In this article, we’ll explore some quick and easy health tips to help busy mum entrepreneurs prioritise self-care, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and ultimately achieve success both in business and at home.

1. Prioritising Self-Care in a Busy Schedule

As a busy mum entrepreneur, taking care of yourself might not be at the top of your to-do list, but it’s essential for your health and well-being. Here are three ways to prioritise self-care in your hectic schedule:

Ø Schedule “Me Time” for Relaxation

Carve out time for yourself each day to recharge. This can be anything from a 15-minute meditation session to reading a book or taking a relaxing bath. Whatever it is, make sure it’s something that makes you feel rejuvenated and relaxed.

Ø Delegate and Outsource to Free Up Time

As an entrepreneur, you might try to do everything yourself, but it’s essential to delegate tasks to others. Hire a house cleaner or a virtual assistant to take care of tasks that don’t require your attention, so you can focus on your work and yourself.

Ø Set Boundaries for Work and Family Time

It’s essential to establish boundaries for yourself and your family, ensuring you have time for both work and personal life. Set specific work hours and adhere to them, and don’t hesitate to decline work requests if they conflict with your personal life.

2. Mastering Meal Planning for Nutritious Eating

As a busy mum entrepreneur, finding time to plan and prepare healthy meals can be a challenge. These tips can help you incorporate nutritious eating into your hectic schedule:

Ø Pre-plan Meals for Convenience and Health

Pre-plan your family’s meals to save time and guarantee healthy eating. Allocate a time each week for meal planning and shopping, and utilise a meal planning app or tool to simplify the process.

Ø Embrace Healthy Snacks and Beverages

Healthy snacks and beverages, such as fruits, nuts, yoghurt, and water, can maintain your energy levels throughout the day. Keep healthy snacks and water bottles readily available for a quick and easy pick-me-up.

Ø Explore Quick and Easy Healthy Recipes

Swift and simple healthy recipes can save you time while ensuring you get the nutrients you need. Search for healthy recipes that can be prepared in 30 minutes or less, or consider using a meal kit delivery service to streamline meal planning and preparation.

3. Integrating Exercise into a Busy Routine

Staying active is vital for your health and well-being, but squeezing exercise into a hectic schedule can be a challenge. Try these tips to incorporate exercise into your daily routine:

Craft an Effective Workout Plan Tailored to Your Schedule

Design a workout plan that suits your timetable, whether it’s a 30-minute session at home or a brisk jog outdoors. Ensure it’s an activity you enjoy and can commit to.

Use Apps and Online Coaching Services for Accountability and Motivation

Apps and online coaching services can help keep you accountable and motivated to exercise. Seek out apps that offer personalised workouts or online coaching services that provide tailored support and feedback.

Integrate Small Changes into Your Daily Routine for Better Health

Incorporate minor adjustments like taking the stairs instead of the lift or going for a walk during your lunch break to stay active and enhance your health without consuming too much time.

The Significance of Hydration and Sleep

Hydration and sleep are crucial for your health and well-being. Consider these three tips to prioritise hydration and sleep amidst your busy life:

1. Emphasise Sleep for Enhanced Health and Productivity

Ensure you’re getting sufficient sleep to function at your best. Aim for seven to eight hours of sleep each night, and endeavour to establish a bedtime routine to help you unwind before bed.

2. Develop a Consistent Sleep and Wake Routine

Establish a consistent sleep and wake routine, even on weekends, to regulate your body’s natural rhythms. This can help you nod off quicker and wake up feeling rejuvenated.

3. Hydrate According to Your Daily Activity Level

Proper hydration is vital for your well-being. Ensure you’re drinking sufficient water throughout the day to stay hydrated and invigorated. Carry a water bottle with you as a reminder to drink water regularly.

Prioritising Health in Your Business Culture

As a busy mum entrepreneur, you understand the importance of balancing both your business and personal life. However, it’s easy for your health to take a back seat. Here are some tips to help you prioritise health within your business culture:

1. Educate Your Team on the Significance of Health and Wellness

Inform your team about the value of a healthy lifestyle. Encourage them to look after themselves, enabling them to perform better at work. Share articles or resources highlighting the advantages of nutritious eating, regular exercise, and stress reduction.

2. Offer Wholesome Food and Beverage Choices at Work

Fill your office with wholesome food and beverage options, such as fruit, nuts, water, and tea. Steer clear of sugary drinks and snacks which can lead to energy crashes and negatively affect productivity.

3. Promote Physical Activity and Mental Breaks for Enhanced Productivity

Encourage your team to take breaks throughout the day to stretch, walk, or practice mindfulness techniques to help them focus. Promote physical activity and urge your team to make the most of work-sponsored fitness programmes or gym memberships.

Simple Stress Management Techniques for Mum Entrepreneurs

Stress is inescapable, particularly for mum entrepreneurs balancing work and family life. Here are some straightforward stress management techniques that you can incorporate into your routine:

1. Identify the Root Causes of Your Stress and Develop Strategies to Manage Them

Determine the main causes of your stress and create strategies to handle them. Often, stress stems from tasks that can be delegated or avoided.

2. Practice Breathing Techniques and Meditation

Master simple breathing techniques, such as the 4-7-8 breath, or include meditation in your daily routine to help you feel more relaxed and present.

3. Make Time for Relaxation and Fun Activities for Stress Relief

Allocate time for enjoyable activities that help you relax and unwind. This can involve reading, listening to music, or spending time with family and friends.

The Benefits of Mindful Practices in Your Daily Routine

Practising mindfulness can enhance your physical, emotional, and mental health. Here are some advantages of integrating mindfulness techniques into your daily routine:

1. Boost Your Health and Productivity with Daily Mindfulness

Incorporate mindfulness techniques, such as deep breathing or mindfulness meditation, into your daily routine to help you feel more present, focused, and grounded.

2. Alleviate Stress and Anxiety through Mindfulness Techniques

Utilise mindfulness techniques to diminish stress and anxiety, enhancing your overall well-being. Practising mindfulness increases your awareness of thoughts, feelings, and emotions, enabling you to manage them more effectively.

3. Build Mindful Relationships with Family, Friends, and Colleagues

Embracing mindfulness can assist you in cultivating better relationships with your family, colleagues, and friends. By being fully present, you can communicate more effectively and respond to others’ needs.

In conclusion, as a mum entrepreneur, it’s crucial to remember that your health is just as important as your business and family. By making small adjustments to your daily routine and prioritising self-care, you can achieve better health, increased productivity, and ultimately, greater success in all areas of your life. So take a deep breath, schedule in some “me time,” and commit to making your health a priority. Your business, family, and most importantly, yourself, will thank you for it.

FAQ

Why is self-care vital for mum entrepreneurs?

Self-care is essential for mum entrepreneurs as it maintains their physical, mental, and emotional well-being, critical for success in both business and family life. Neglecting self-care can result in burnout, stress, and other health problems that can adversely affect personal and professional lives.

Incorporating Healthy Eating into a Hectic Schedule

Integrating healthy eating into a busy schedule can be challenging, but meal planning, nutritious snacking, and discovering quick, easy, and healthy recipes can help prioritise wholesome food choices. Opting for convenient and nourishing snacks, such as fresh fruit, nuts, and vegetables, can also make a significant difference.

Exercising Regularly as a Mum Entrepreneur

Yes, exercising regularly as a mum entrepreneur is achievable. Design an efficient workout plan tailored to your schedule, use apps and online coaching services for accountability, and incorporate small changes into your daily routine to improve health and fitness.

Quick and Easy Stress Management Techniques

Quick and easy stress management techniques for mum entrepreneurs include pinpointing the root causes of stress and devising strategies to tackle them, practising breathing exercises and meditation, and setting aside time for relaxation and enjoyable activities to ease stress.

TIME MANAGEMENT TIPS TO MAXIMIZE YOUR PRODUCTIVITY

by with No Comment BusinessMotherhood/Parenting

Time management is a critical skill that is essential to personal and professional success. The ability to manage your time effectively can help you achieve your goals, maximize productivity, and reduce stress levels. Unfortunately, many people struggle to manage their time effectively, often leading to missed deadlines, incomplete projects, and burnout. In this article, we will explore some valuable time management tips and techniques that can help you prioritize your tasks, manage your schedule, and enhance your productivity. With these tips in mind, you can take control of your time and achieve your goals with ease.

Top Time Management Tips You Need to Know

1. Identify Your Priorities

Effectively managing your time starts with identifying and prioritizing tasks and objectives. This involves understanding and assessing which activities are most important and allocating the appropriate amount of time to each.

2. Assess Your Goals and Objectives

The first step towards successful time management is identifying your goals and objectives. This helps you understand what you want to achieve and the time and effort required to accomplish them. Once your goals are established, prioritising them based on their importance will enable you to focus on essential tasks.

3. Distinguish Between Urgent and Important Tasks

To properly prioritize, it’s crucial to differentiate between urgent and important tasks. Urgent tasks demand immediate attention, while important tasks are critical for achieving long-term goals. Grasping this distinction will help you prioritize tasks with the greatest impact.

4. Create a Schedule

Developing a schedule is an effective method for managing your time. It involves organizing tasks and activities in a structured manner, making it simpler to stay focused and productive.

Conquer Your Day with Effective Time Management

Discover the best time management strategies to keep you organised, productive, and on track.

Craft Your Perfect Schedule

Design a schedule by allocating time blocks for specific tasks and activities, allowing you to prioritise your day and focus on the most critical tasks while ensuring all other tasks are completed.

Banish Distractions

Distractions can hinder productivity and sabotage your time management efforts. Identifying and eliminating distractions is crucial to maintaining focus and completing tasks efficiently.

Tame Digital Temptations

Digital distractions, such as social media and mobile phones, can consume valuable time and prevent you from accomplishing essential tasks. Minimise these distractions by turning off notifications and setting aside specific times to check emails and social media.

Embrace Breaks and Rest

Taking breaks and allowing yourself to rest promotes productivity and helps maintain focus throughout the day.

Set Achievable Goals

Establishing realistic goals is vital in time management as it helps prioritise tasks, manage time effectively, and achieve the desired outcome. Unrealistic goals can lead to burnout, overwhelm, and a decline in overall productivity.

When you set achievable goals, you’re more likely to stay motivated, maintain focus, and experience a sense of accomplishment.

Assess Your Progress

Regularly evaluating your progress helps you identify areas for improvement, refine your time management strategies, and celebrate your successes.

Unlock the Secret to Time Management Success: Evaluation!

Ever wondered how to turbocharge your time management game? The answer lies in continuous evaluation! It’s the key that unlocks the door to greater efficiency and effectiveness in achieving your goals.

Stay motivated and focused by regularly assessing your progress, discovering what works like a charm, and fine-tuning any tactics that need a little TLC. With evaluation on your side, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of time management and reaching your goals with ease!

Your kid is not watching too much TV…

by with No Comment Featured MomsMotherhood/Parenting

Do you think your kid is watching too much TV?

I recently visited the pediatrician with my son. It was his first time in the States so there were lots of questions asked.

The one question that stuck with me was about his digital content consumption.

The nurse asked “how many hours would you say he spends watching TV?”

“About 6 to 8 hours” I said.

Six to Eight hours! Six to eight hours is the entire day for a toddler who sleeps 12hours through the night.

Drenched in guilt, I decided I was going to minimize how much TV he watches from then on.But first, I consulted google (as always).

How much is too much?
Silhouette of girl watching tv

According to the American Academy of Pediatricians, children ages 2-4 years should have a maximum screen time of 1 hour per day. Anything above this means kids are watching too much TV.

Reading this worsened my plight. What a bad mother I have been. Armed with this piece of information, I set out to turn on the TV for just one hour a day.

Who was I kidding?

No…not because my toddler was throwing tantrums. Actually, he did not oppose as much as I expected him to. The joke was on me.

But the entire incident got me thinking. Is my son really watching TV for 8 hours? Is he watching too much TV at all?

Although we’ve pretty much settled into a routine, I decided to observe and possibly track our media consumption over the next couple of days.

Our Daily Routine

I’m a newbie to the States. My son is going on 3years. He has 3 more years before he can be enrolled in school and pre-school starts at 4years. We decided against Day Care mainly because of COVID and the cost ($250 per week is a lot of money).

So, I am currently a stay-at-home mom, with a 3-year-old, a 10-month-old and their father. Between catering to my needs and those of our family, I need the kids – the oldest specifically to be engaged so I can get things done.

The TV comes on at about 10:30am and stays on till around 9:00pm.

Between these 12 hours, we learn, play, eat and nap. Nap times can last anytime between 40mins to 2hours. Sometimes twice a day. At about 1pm every day, we often have a play/learn time where we use building blocks and colouring books. This can last anywhere between 15 to 45 mins.

Feedings are about 4 to 6 times daily including snacks. These can range from 10 to 30mins.

And then there is bath time, which ranges from 10 to 40mins at about 6:30pm each night. Around this same time, their father would have returned from work and taken over the TV. This is interspersed with family time, a reading session and a night snack until about 9pm when we all retire to bed.

Assuming we allocate 30mins to each of the stated activities, that’s a total of 3.5 hours off. Let’s add in 30 mins for each feeding time 4 times a day. That’s another 2 hours off. Leaving us with about 2.5 hours.

Research Vrs. Reality

Most studies on the effects of long hours of screen viewing cite 3 main concerns; physical activity, sedentary behavior and sleep problems.

Half the time that the TV is on, my toddler is on his feet, jumping, singing and dancing to some ditty about numbers, colours, and alphabets.

In terms of feeding, well you know how toddlers eat. I bet he burns all he eats whiles he is eating given the acrobatics that accompany each bite.

If that’s not physical activity enough…

For sedentary behaviour, my toddler follows me everywhere once I’m out of sight. So, if I have to pee 10 times, he is with me. Add that to how many times he has to pee and his sister needs a diaper change.

For all 4 or more times that I have to prepare his meal or snack, he follows me into the kitchen, using my utensils as toy drums. Definitely not sluggish or sedentary.

Finally, he gets between 10 to 12 hours of sleep through the night and naps at least once during the day, which is as expected for his age.

Of course, not all days are rosy. But on average, this is what a day looks like.

In essence, the 8 hours I bleated was no eight hours at all you see. And even if my son is watching a bit more TV than he should, he is getting enough sleep, physical activity and meeting his developmental milestones.

Not so bad after all

If we were in Ghana, he would have been in school by now, as is the case of most toddlers his age. Meaning, TV viewing would be limited to after school hours and weekends, which is not bad all.

So, if your toddler is in school, and you are worried they are watching too much TV…?

Breathe Mama. Take a step back. Observe it all. Take notes and monitor. It may turn out not to be as bad as you think, specifically when it comes to TV viewing.

“Beginning at about 2 years, quality TV—well-designed, age-appropriate programs with specific educational goals—can provide an additional route to early language and literacy for children”

National Library of Medicine

The fact is, many studies lump all screen time together. But there actually is a growing amount of evidence that co-viewing quality content with your kids can positively influence children’s social adaptive skills, sleep patterns and behaviours.

This is likely the case in most households as preschoolers are usually with a parent or designated caregiver.

So, TV is not so bad after all.

But if you still fear that your child is watching too much TV, look out for these signs.

Minimize , Monitor & Engage (MME)
Shot of an adorable little girl watching tv and spending time with her father at home

That said, I have done my best to minimize his screen time. The key is to minimize, monitor and engage (MME).

I have resorted to turning on the TV only after 12pm each day as often and as practical as possible. Try this if you can. There are good days and not so good days. In the end, kids are kids and they will find other ways to play when the TV is not on.

I also turn it off during learn/play times, nap times and sometimes meal times, thereby reducing the distractions from having it on in the background.

In terms of content, I mostly choose interactive and activity-based content. These are free and accessible through kids’ apps. My favorite is YouTube Kids (not listed), where you can find content on a variety of subjects and the ads are for kids so you don’t have to worry about their exposure to any adult content.

By using kids’ apps, you are able to monitor what they watch and subsequently engage them in conversations about it.

Note that, though these tactics seem suited to stay at home moms with preschoolers, you can adapt them for use during the weekends or on vacations if your child in enrolled in day care or pre-school.

Check out for similar resources relating to your child’s age and current status (for instance if they are homeschooled) and fine tune them to your taste. You can even try this family media plan.

Whatever happens, don’t be hard on yourself. You love your kids and you are doing your best for them. There maybe excesses here and there but that’s ok Mama. They will turn out just fine.

So … do you think your kid is watching too much TV?