Tech, Tots, and Time Blocks: Productivity Hacks for the Working Mom
Tech, Tots, and Time Blocks: Productivity Hacks for the Working Mom
Being a mom in tech leadership is like running two startups at once — one at work and one at home. Both require strategy, patience, and a whole lot of multitasking. Over the years, I’ve learned that productivity isn’t about doing more — it’s about doing what matters, with intention and grace.
Here’s how I stay productive while managing a household, leading teams, and showing up for my little ones.
1. Time Blocking: My Non-Negotiable
Time blocking is my secret weapon. I treat my calendar like a puzzle — each block is a commitment to focus. I schedule everything:
Work meetings
Deep focus time
School pickups
Family dinners
Self-care moments
I even block “transition time” between work and home so I can mentally shift gears. This helps me avoid burnout and stay present in each role.
Mom Tip: Use color coding in your calendar to visually separate work, family, and personal time. It helps you see your week at a glance and avoid overcommitting.
2. Favorite Tools & Apps That Keep Me Sane
Here are a few digital lifesavers I swear by:
Google Calendar: For syncing work and family schedules.
Notion: My go-to for organizing projects, to-do lists, and even meal planning.
Slack + Do Not Disturb Mode: For managing team communication while protecting focus time.
Todoist: A simple, powerful task manager that helps me prioritize daily goals.
Instacart & Target Drive-Up: Because grocery runs with toddlers are a whole adventure I don’t always have time for.
Mom Tip: Find an app that is suitable for you and your families needs to help organize family calendars, shopping lists, and to -dos with the entire family.:
3. Automation = Sanity Saver
I automate everything I can:
Recurring bill payments
Weekly grocery orders
Email filters and rules
Meeting reminders and follow-ups
At work, I use different tools to automate repetitive tasks and streamline workflows. At home, I set up smart home routines (like lights and thermostats) to save time and mental energy.
4. Delegation: The Power Move
Delegation isn’t just for the office — it’s for home too. I’ve learned to ask for help, outsource where possible, and trust others to carry the load.
At work, I empower my team to lead projects and make decisions. At home, I involve my kids in age-appropriate tasks and lean on my partner for shared responsibilities.
Mindset Shift: Delegation isn’t weakness — it’s leadership. It frees you to focus on what only you can do.
5. Boundaries That Protect My Peace
Boundaries are essential. I’ve set clear expectations around:
Work hours
Meeting availability
Family time
Digital detox zones
I don’t answer emails during dinner. I don’t take meetings during school drop-off. And I’ve learned to say “no” without guilt — because every “yes” to something is a “no” to something else.
6. Mindset Shifts That Changed Everything
Here are a few beliefs I’ve adopted that help me stay grounded:
Progress over perfection: Done is better than perfect.
Presence over productivity: Being fully present matters more than checking every box.
Grace over guilt: I give myself permission to be human — to rest, to reset, to recalibrate.
Final Thoughts
Being a mom in leadership is a balancing act — but with the right tools, mindset, and support, it’s absolutely possible to thrive. Productivity isn’t about doing it all. It’s about doing what matters most, with clarity and care.
To every working mom out there: you are capable, powerful, and worthy of systems that support your success. Keep building your rhythm. Keep leading with love. And never forget — you’re doing an incredible job.