Have you ever said yes to two things at the exact same time… without realizing it? 🙋♀️
I’ve done it more times than I care to admit. A playdate at 4pm, then later agreeing to help with homework club—also at 4pm. Suddenly, I’m scrambling, and someone is left disappointed.
Double-booking was one of my biggest mom guilt triggers. I didn’t want my kids (or friends) thinking I was unreliable, but honestly, I just couldn’t see the whole picture of our family’s schedule.
Here are 5 simple changes I made that completely shifted things for me:
1. One Calendar for EVERYTHING
If it’s not on the family calendar, it doesn’t exist. No more sticky notes on the fridge, reminders buried in my phone, or scribbles in the margins of a school flyer. Everything lives in one place.
2. Write It Down Immediately
The moment someone tells me about a practice, a birthday party, or a school event—I write it down. Even if it’s just 30 seconds, it saves me hours of stress later.
3. Color Coding
Every kid (and parent) gets a color. At a glance, I can see who’s busy when, without even having to read the details. Game-changer.
4. Weekly “Big Picture” Check
On Sunday nights, we do a family check-in. We look at the week together and catch overlaps before they sneak up on us. My kids love knowing what’s coming too—it makes the week smoother for everyone.
5. Pause Before Saying Yes
This one is so simple, but so powerful. I’ve trained myself to say, “Let me check the calendar,” before I agree to anything. Even if it’s just a quick two-second pause, it gives me the space to make sure I’m not about to double-book again.
Since making these small changes, I feel less frazzled and more in control. I’m not letting people down as often, and I’m not living with that constant “oops, I forgot” guilt.
If you’re ready to get out of the double-booking spiral too, I created something that’s been a lifesaver for me: our Full-Year Family Calendar.
It’s designed to keep all the moving pieces of family life in one place—simple, visual, and easy to use (even if you’re juggling multiple kids and activities).
👉 [Grab your Full-Year Calendar here]
Trust me, future-you will thank you. 💛