10 Ways to Manage a Heavy Schedule with a Peaceful Heart

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Several years ago, I wrote a post about how to keep your sanity while doing all the things. And by that, I do mean ALL the things: I was writing several books, traveling constantly, trying to look after my grandma and my still-small children, homeschooling my older kids, and working all hours at my church.

Oh, friend, I look back at that season and just have to take a deep breath! Do you ever have those times where you look at your calendar and think, “Lord, are there actually enough hours in the day?” Back then, I was juggling toddler naps and high school graduations. Today, the pace is still fast, but the scenery has changed. With seven homeschoolers graduated and three busy high schoolers still at home, the “to-do” list looks different, but the need for God’s grace is exactly the same.

If you are feeling overwhelmed by the weight of your schedule today, I want to share how I manage the “busy” while keeping my heart centered on Christ.

1. The “Brain Dump” Calendar

I still swear by this! Whether you use a digital calendar like iCal or a paper planner, put everything in a slot. From grocery shopping and laundry to high school transcript prep and writing goals. Getting it off your brain and onto the paper allows you to stop worrying about when it will happen. Each task has its place and just has to wait its turn!

2. Prayerfully Hold Your Schedule Open

Every morning, I hold my phone or my planner up to the Lord. I ask, “Lord, what do You think of this?” Sometimes, He prompts me to move a “must-do” task to next week so I can focus on a teen who is having a hard day. When we let Him be the Master of our minutes, the stress begins to melt away.

3. Listen to the Holy Spirit’s Redirection

Have you ever been in the middle of a task and felt a nudge to go in a different direction? Maybe it’s a new creative idea or a prompt to pray for a friend. Don’t let your to-do list become a taskmaster that silences the Holy Spirit. If He redirects your energy, trust that He has the rest of your list figured out, too.

4. Seek Wise Counsel

I am so thankful for my husband, John, and my wise advisors who help me see the big picture. Sometimes we are too close to our own “busy” to see what’s truly important. Find someone who can help you distinguish between what is “urgent” and what is “vital.”

5. Keep a Tender Heart for Your Teens

Even though my three at home are in high school and much more independent than a toddler, they still need me. They may not need me to cut up their grapes, but they need me to listen to their dreams and help them navigate their big questions. If a teen needs to talk, that is a “divine appointment” that takes priority over any email.

6. Build in “Space” for the Unexpected

If I’ve learned anything from homeschooling ten children, it’s that “life” happens. Technology breaks, kids get sick, and deadlines shift. By not over-scheduling every single minute, you create a buffer of grace that allows you to handle the unexpected without losing your peace.

7. Schedule Your Self-Care (and Naps!)

If the list gets done early, or if you find a window of quiet, take that nap! Or pick up your Life Application Study Bible and just sit with Jesus. You are the heart of your home, and a weary, burnt-out mom struggles to pour into her family. Refreshing yourself is an act of stewardship.

8. Prioritize Connection Over Completion

At the end of my life, I won’t care if my inbox was at zero, but I will care if my children felt seen and loved. If I can’t drop everything the second a child asks, I “write them into the schedule” for a coffee date or a walk a day or two later. It gives us both something to look forward to!

9. Embrace the Season You’re In

My house used to be filled with ten kids and extra families; now, it’s transitioning as my older ones fly the nest. Every season has its own unique “busy.” Instead of wishing for a different season, ask God to help you find the joy and the “genius” ideas for the one you are in right now.

10. Let Go of Perfection

Some days, the housecleaning doesn’t happen. Some days, the writing goal isn’t met. And that is okay. We serve a God of infinite grace. Do your best, leave the rest to Him, and sleep well knowing His mercies are new every single morning.

A Prayer for the Busy Mom

Heavenly Father, You see the long list of tasks and the heavy weight of responsibility my friend is carrying today. I pray You would give her a spirit of peace and a mind of clarity. Help her to discern Your voice above the noise of the “busy.” Give her the strength to accomplish what You have called her to, and the grace to let go of the rest. Amen.

Additional Resources

Hope and Refreshment for Homeschooling Parents

Need more ideas and advice on homeschooling? Pick up a copy of Homeschool Basics. Receive tried-and-true homeschool advice from veteran homeschooling moms Tricia Goyer and Kristi Clover. We dish out practical help on getting started and staying the course. Homeschool Basics will remind you that the best homeschooling starts with the heart. Packed with ideas to help you push aside your fears and raise kids who will grow to be life-long learners.

Kristi and I believe that homeschooling can transform your life, your home, and your family. Mostly, we believe homeschooling can truly prepare your children for the life God’s called them to live. Don’t let doubts hold you back any longer.

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