Why Do I Feel Like a Mess Even Though I’m Following ‘Organized Mom’ Tips?

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I don’t see myself as an organized mom at all. “We’re just hanging on by a thread,” I often say, especially after showing up late to my daughter’s birthday party because I misread the time in my calendar. So when I come across articles like “12 Things Organized Moms Do,” I can’t help but feel like I’m punishing myself for falling short compared to all those other parents who seem to have everything figured out.

But here’s the kicker: I’ve realized I actually do quite a few of those things! Could it be that I’m more organized than I thought? And if that’s the case, why am I still playing catch-up? Let’s dive into the list:

1. Use Your Smartphone to Stay Organized
   I do this! I swear! I have the kids’ schedules plus my own on a Google calendar that syncs with my iPhone. I set reminders and check it often, but I still mess up the times sometimes—hence my daughter’s late arrival to her party. A friend of mine, though, takes it to a whole new level with detail. She even schedules tooth fairy reminders. Meanwhile, my tooth fairy is often on the couch, lost in a TV haze!
2. Avoid Using Your Phone as an Entertainment Center
   I mean, does it really make you more organized if you don’t have games on your phone? That feels unfair.
3. Handle Mail Immediately
   I think I’ve got this down. Junk mail? Straight to the trash. If an online bill pops up, I pay it right away. I’m also a quick email responder, which sometimes leads to sending five follow-up emails because I jumped the gun. But hey, I do love the dramatic flair of hitting “send.”
4. Plan Meals
   Now, they don’t say to go overboard with this, just to have a loose plan for the week. I don’t do the cooking, but it would definitely help my husband, who often asks me for dinner ideas right after the kids have eaten. Until I learn to cook, suggesting takeout is my go-to.
5. Stay on Top of Laundry
   We manage our adult laundry just fine, but the kids seem to create ten times the mess. My son always runs out of appropriate PE pants, and my daughter’s pajamas are perpetually in the wash. Total fail.
6. Schedule Doctor’s Appointments Early
   I’ve been doing this for years—who knew it was a strategy? Win for me!
7. Wake Up Before the Kids
   This feels a bit like a martyr thing, but I do it, and it works. By the time they’re up for breakfast, I’ve showered, dressed, brewed coffee, and emptied the dishwasher. Totally worth the lost sleep for a smoother start.
8. Organize School Stuff the Night Before
   Better yet, I make the kids do it. Sure, it’s to teach them organization, but let’s be honest, I’m just lazy. Still counts, right?
9. Do the Same for Your Own Stuff
   But where’s the fun in that?
10. Book Your Sitters Early
    I’m on top of this too! I have a go-to list ready for whenever I need help.
11. Keep Devices Charged
    Absolutely. Chargers are everywhere, and I always check my devices. I’m trying to teach my son this, too; he thinks a 13% battery is fine until it dies in the middle of the day.
12. Set Up Autopay Where Possible
    Confession: Autopay freaks me out. I only have it for the mortgage and car payment. The idea of money disappearing without my approval feels sneaky. But hey, I still get points for the essentials!

So why do I still forget to send my daughter’s Brownie vest to school? Why aren’t these organization hacks working for me? Anyone have the answer?

If you want to read more about organization and parenting, check out this resource on pregnancy and home insemination or learn more about at-home insemination kits from Cryobaby. For more tips on staying organized, see our other blog post here.

Summary

In this lighthearted exploration, the author reflects on the irony of trying to be an organized mom while still feeling overwhelmed. Despite following various organizational tips, she finds herself forgetting key tasks and falling behind, highlighting the relatable chaos of parenting.