Being prepared for whatever life has for us as homemakers and moms can make or break the day or even weeks we encounter. Having a plan, taking action in the plan and then embracing the rhythms are steps to take in being prepared. The daily routines, weekly schedules and future circumstances we may have are all aspects of life that we can be equipped for.
When we think of prepared as mommas and homemakers, what do we think of? Dictionary.com gives this definition of prepared – properly expectant, organized, or equipped; ready. That definition can help determine a better understanding of how we can actually go about being ready for different aspects in life. It is not something we need to fear, but a part of our lives we need to embrace and take action on.
Step one – PLAN
Being prepared takes some forethought and planning. Whatever situations we have to deal with, we need to plan. Planning ahead takes some getting used to, but can be accomplished with practice. Here are a few real life examples.
- Last week my three kids and I planned to go to the zoo for a morning outing. The evening before, the diaper bag was packed with extra supplies, spare clothes were packed, snacks and water bottles were laid out and the stroller was in the vehicle. Since we had to leave right after breakfast I made sure to have the kids’ clothes and mine ready as well. On the morning of our zoo outing, we were able to have a smooth departure because the planning ahead had happened.
- A couple weekends ago we hosted a larger birthday party for a couple of my kids. The meal plan was written out, the grocery and party decor lists were made and the tentative timeline of when the food preparations needed to be done the week before was created. Having the majority of the tasks planned out and done throughout the week prior made for a much more relaxed and enjoyable party day.
Lists can be a great asset in helping plan. Write down a list in any situation that feels necessary. From a basic packing list to what food needs bought for a dinner party; the visual of seeing it helps.
Step 2 – Take Action
The planning has been learned. Now, we must take action and practice! Do not just plan for the big events or situations. Make sure to practice being prepared in many different circumstances. Planning for a wedding is something that most people know is good to have lists, goals and adgendas created for. However, if we only work through the larger events with a prepared mindset, the day to day life has a potential to get chaotic.
Take action in being prepared with the daily homemaking rhythms. I share in another blog post, Getting Back a Routine, how writing down a daily rhythm can help in the day to day life. A home cleaning schedule that can be put into practice has been a game changer for our family. About five years ago, I started cleaning a different room of our house each day. It made for less stress and house work on the weekends and also still allowed for flexibility. Having a weekly/daily cleaning routine will be helpful for those who wish to take action in being prepared in the day to day housework.
Step 3 – Embrace the Rhythm
The planning and action steps have been accomplished. It is time to embrace the rhythm of having a prepared mindset and routine. Years of creating habits to prepare my daily rhythms has set me up for success in applying the skill. Yes, I say skill as being a prepper and/or even being a planner is not how everyone is gifted. Some of us can honestly function with too much planning and following of routines. Onthe other hand, others struggle with being to free and flexible with no rhythms. Finding that happy medium that fits our lifestyles and families is key.
When applying the planning and giving time to practice the plans created, be okay with some failures. None of us are perfect. Even those of us who enjoy planning and being prepared miss the mark. I’ve had weeks in my life where I couldn’t keep track of home rhythms well or we missed events due to lack of attention. When those times happen, it takes effort to get back into the systems and rhythms we have, but it is so worth it.
Practical ways to be prepared
Here are some practical ways to be prepared as a homemaker and mom.
- Create a meal plan for the week or month.
- Write every persons adgenda on a paper planner or on a white board where all can see.
- Keep a running grocery list on a notepad or on your phone.
- Have healthy snacks made or stocked in the house.
- Use a monthly budget
- Keep a list of clothes or gift ideas for kids, spouse, family, etc.
- Use and follow a Cleaning routine/schedule
- Have a good morning routine/rhythm for your own personal life.
- Make a list for any vacation or trip away.
Being prepared for the moments, the weeks and the future takes planning, practice and application. I’m hoping that many of you grow in your rhythms as a homemaker and mother. If you’ve already got some ways that you stay prepared, share them in the comments for others to learn from.
Leave a Reply