The Steady Mama

10: A Busy Mom's Guide to Actually Achieving Your Goals (Part 3)

Written by Deanna Hart | Feb 15, 2025 7:18:24 PM

 

You know that moment when you're finally ready to work on your goals, and then... your child has a meltdown, your mother-in-law needs help, or work throws you an unexpected deadline? I've been there, mama. And I want to share something important with you: consistency doesn't have to mean perfection.

The Reality Check We All Need

As a mom managing two neurodivergent kids, a full-time job, and constant family needs, I used to think I needed perfect conditions to make progress on my goals. But waiting for the "perfect time" meant I was always waiting. Sound familiar?

Here's what I learned while losing 30 pounds during one of the most chaotic times in my life:

1. Build Flexibility Into Your Routines (Because Life Never Goes as Planned)

Instead of rigid schedules that fall apart when life happens, try:

  • Creating multiple "ideal" times for important tasks (I had three possible workout windows: early morning, lunch break, or after bedtime)
  • Breaking big tasks into 5-minute chunks (Five minutes of squats while cooking dinner still counts!)
  • Making healthy choices easy by keeping options everywhere (I kept almonds in my work bag and cut veggies ready in the fridge)

Personal Example: "During my weight loss journey, some days I did morning workouts, other days I exercised right before dinner, and sometimes I split my movement into five-minute chunks throughout the day. All of these counted as showing up for my goals."

2. Create Simple Backup Plans (Your Secret Weapon)

When life throws curveballs (and it will), have ready-to-go alternatives:

  • Quick workout options for days with meltdowns
  • Five-minute movement sessions instead of full workouts
  • Healthy "emergency" meals that take minimal prep
  • Go-to responses for common challenges

Real Talk: "The day my son had a massive meltdown before my planned workout, instead of giving up, we took a walk together. It calmed his emotions AND counted as movement. That's what real-life consistency looks like."

3. The Mindset Shifts That Changed Everything

Stop beating yourself up about imperfect progress. Instead:

  • Celebrate showing up, even when plans change
  • View setbacks as feedback, not failure
  • Track small improvements (I measured weekly because daily changes weren't visible)
  • Focus on who you're becoming, not just what you're doing

4. Make Your Plans Actually Work

Here's what made the difference for me:

  • Having crockpot meals ready for busy days
  • Pre-cooking meat in bulk for quick meal assembly
  • Keeping workout equipment visible and accessible
  • Creating simple morning and evening routines that work WITH my family's needs, not against them

Your Action Plan (Because Reading Isn't Enough)

  1. Choose ONE action from your current goal list
  2. Write down three possible times you could do it
  3. Create two super-simple backup plans for when life gets messy
  4. Pick a way to track your progress (I use a simple calendar with stickers)
  5. Decide how you'll celebrate showing up (even if it's not perfect)

Remember This Truth

You don't need to do everything perfectly every day. You just need to hit the target more days than not. As a mom juggling multiple responsibilities, some days will be messy. That's not failure - that's life.

"Consistency isn't about being perfect. It's about continuing to show up even when life gets messy."

Need some extra help staying calm?

Download my free "5-Minute Stress Busters for Busy Moms" guide to help you stay consistent, even on the hardest days. These are the exact strategies I use when life feels overwhelming.

 

Share in the comments: What's one small way you showed up for your goals today? Remember, small steps count!

Ready to Transform Your Mindset?

Listen to the latest episode of the Stress Free Supermom Podcast to here specific examples, get a good laugh, and take this on the road with you. 

 

Ready to take action? Join our Facebook community and share your mindset roadblock. Let's tackle them together!