Many parents, envision what their family life could be, sometimes expecting the plan to look the same as milestones are reached. Then, life happens, and along with it comes unexpected changes and challenges we haven’t yet considered.

Parenting involves the balancing of making decisions, encouraging our children to make choices, and the overwhelming sense of “things” or schedules that consume our daily lives.

Sometimes it can feel as though we are surrounded by too much stuff, too many choices or decisions, too much scheduling of life’s demands, too much incoming information, and going by too quickly.

Where do we start with simplifying? We can feel the pressures of the list of too much. Have you noticed that when there is a ‘day off’ schedule free there is a sense of calm and recollection?

Activity: Take a moment to strip away that list of too much and ask yourself, “If it could be different, what do I want our family life to be like”?

For example:

Just like sending emails to junk mail that are not important or relevant, reducing the incoming or ongoing information—subscribe less, and facilitate involvement in areas of needs versus wants.

Making fewer choices or decisions—simplify a weekly/monthly meal plan (usually end up eating the same 10-15 meals), knowing what to expect for the upcoming week.

Simplifying your space—declutter, have a place (that is not crammed) for every item to reduce time spent thinking of where to put it, create an environment that supports our needs and a sense of calming—move those cups closer to the coffee pot and have frequently used items nearby.