Let’s face it, the holidays bring joy—and chaos. For moms juggling ministry, family, and the pressure to create magic for everyone, it’s easy to lose balance. I’ve been there, rushing through tasks, often with a less-than-cheerful attitude, just to keep everything moving and flowing. But now, with the holiday whirlwind behind us, it’s time to reset and reclaim peace through routine.

The Holiday Whirlwind

December was non-stop for me and my family. With Collins’ birthday, church events, Christmas parties (including hosting one for our church youth group), and family gatherings, our routine vanished. Preschool at home? Gone. Potty training? Absolutely not. Home-cooked dinners? Hello, takeout. While the season was wonderful, the lack of structure left me craving the stability and calm that routine brings.

Why Routine Matters

Routine creates predictability, reduces stress, and fosters peace for the whole family. Children thrive on structure—it’s comforting to know what comes next as adults I’m sure we can attest ourselves. For my daughter, bedtime routines eliminate struggles because she knows what to expect. For me, routine ensures I have time for personal needs, like prayer and rest, so I can pour into my family from a full cup.

3 Steps to Reclaim Routine

Step 1 – Start Small

Make manageable changes. For us, January meant a family media detox and a small diet reset, but your “small” could be setting regular meal times, reducing screen time, or committing to 15 minutes of Bible reading each morning. Small, consistent steps rebuild structure.

Step 2 – Prioritize What Matters

Identify what matters most to your family. For us, it’s dinner together and focusing on God. Maybe for you, it’s carving out time for personal hobbies or family walks. Whatever it is, make it part of your daily rhythm.

Step 3 – Adjust Expectations

Remember, flexibility is key. Not every day will go as planned, and that’s okay. When chaos creeps in, remember to lean on God. Let Him guide you, even in the mess, and trust that peace can still prevail as He is the Prince of Peace.

Finding Peace in the Everyday

Write down a simple rhythm or routine that works for your family. Involve your children when possible—it’s about creating balance for everyone. For example, I tidy up with a toy basket system. Meaning, I keep a basket in my house designated for toys and toys alone that I can quickly put the toys in and place back in my daughter’s room. This helps keep my house manageable without overwhelming myself and my daughter.

Practical Tips to Maintain Routine

Peace looks different for everyone. For me, it’s a tidy space, slow mornings, and journaling my prayers. What fills your soul? List 3-5 things you’d love in your daily routine and start incorporating them, little by little.

Encouragement

You’re not failing when life doesn’t look perfect. Celebrate small victories and give yourself grace. I’ve started writing a “ta-da” list alongside my to-dos to recognize what I’ve accomplished, even if it wasn’t part of the plan.

Let’s embrace the beauty of routine and let God’s peace guide us through the everyday.

Call to Action

Download my personal example of routine and then the one you can fill out yourself to create a substantial routine/rhythm that works for you and your family! Thanks for meeting me here today!