Ever feel like 24 hours in a day just aren’t enough? As a parent, the list of to-dos can seem endless, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But here’s one important tip: Be mindful of the language you use. Phrases like, “I have infinite tasks to do,” “I’m always busy,” or even one of my go-to lines—“I can’t do everything myself!”—can sneak into your thoughts and amplify stress. (I know, because I’ve been there, too!)
In moments of overwhelm, we tend to exaggerate our workload. But the reality is often more manageable than it seems—if we take a moment to reflect and break things down. The key to feeling more in control lies in getting clarity on your real tasks and identifying where your support system is.
Delegation Is Key (and Perfectionism Is the Enemy!)
One of the hardest lessons for high-achieving parents is learning to delegate—and letting go of the need for control or perfection. Not everything needs to be done by you. Once you let go of the urge to manage every detail, you’ll open up space for a schedule that works better for everyone.
To help you manage your time more effectively, here are three apps I recommend to stay on top of your tasks and schedules without burning out. The main goal? Finding balance across your work, social, family, and personal life.
MY TOP 3 APPS FOR TIME MANAGEMENT
1. Notion
Notion is a highly flexible app that allows you to organize your tasks and projects while also serving as a digital workspace. You can create documents, manage workflows, and even sync with Google Calendar for seamless scheduling. Think of it as a mix of a planner and task manager that can be tailored to your personal and professional needs. It’s perfect for those who love structure and customization.
- Tip: Use templates to save time and streamline repetitive tasks, like grocery lists or morning routines.
2. Google Calendar
Google Calendar is a must-have for syncing work, social, family, and personal schedules all in one place. It’s perfect for setting reminders and ensuring that you don’t miss non-negotiable events—whether that’s a doctor’s appointment or your child’s soccer game.
- Tip: Color-code your events by category (e.g., work, personal, family) to get a quick visual overview of your commitments.
3. Cozi
Cozi is a fantastic app specifically designed for busy families. It not only keeps everyone’s schedules in sync but also allows you to create shared grocery lists and to-do lists. As a bonus, it includes recipe ideas—perfect for those moments when you’re stuck wondering, “What’s for dinner?”
- Tip: Make it a habit to update the app together with your family once a week—this keeps everyone on the same page and reduces last-minute surprises.
Find What Works for You
These are just three apps that I’ve found helpful, but there are many other tools you can explore, such as traditional planners, physical agendas, or digital to-do lists. The key is to find what fits your life best—whether that’s a minimal tool or a highly integrated app. Consider factors like how many reminders you need, whether you want to collaborate with others, and how easy the app is to use.
A Simple Plan to Get Started
- Pick one app. Choose the one that sounds most aligned with your needs.
- Test it for a week. Use it consistently, and don’t try to manage everything at once—focus on your top priorities.
- Evaluate the results. How do you feel after using the app? Are things starting to feel more manageable?
The goal isn’t to control everything—it’s to feel more in control of your life. At the end of the day, that’s what matters most. Remember: Balance doesn’t mean doing it all; it means doing what matters—intentionally and with ease.