Daily Routine for Working Moms: Simplify Your Day With the Rule of Three

The idea of this article is not to give you a perfect daily routine of a working mother but to help you create your own one. I believe there’s no such thing as a perfect daily routine for working moms. Life is just too complex for a one-size-fits-all solution. Whether you’re juggling a baby’s nap schedule, meal prep for picky eaters, health challenges, work deadlines, or keeping your home somewhat presentable, the equation has way too many variables to fit into a neat little box.

As a work-from-home mom, I know the struggle all too well. My home, often filled with noisy kids and endless chores, never lets me forget it’s there. It stares at me while I’m working and silently asks, “When are you going to tackle that pile of laundry?” So, being easily overwhelmed by the amount of home routines, I was looking for a system to lighten my load (first of all mentally). 

I’ve found something that’s helped me keep my sanity while juggling all the roles God has given me: the Rule of Three. It’s not just another productivity hack; it’s a mindset shift that has been a game-changer. It has been so liberating that I decided to share it with you.

What is the Rule of Three (and why is it transformative to the daily routine for working moms)?

The rule of three is a simple yet powerful concept rooted in psychology and productivity principles. It says: 

Focus on three key priorities each day. 

That’s it. Not ten, not twenty—just three. Why three? Because our brains love threes! The Rule of Three psychology says it’s just the right number to keep us focused without feeling overwhelmed. 

If we try to do too much, we burn out. Too little, and we’re not challenged enough. Three hits the sweet spot. Three feels complete and satisfying, making it more memorable. This is why the Rule of Three is so popular in storytelling, speeches, and even marketing slogans.

Do you know who else used it? Jesus. He often used the rule-of-three framework in His parables: the Parable of the Good Samaritan, the Parable of the Sower, and the Parable of the Great Dinner. Also, think of Peter, James, and John, or the three days between His crucifixion and resurrection. God designed us to process and remember things best in threes.

Here’s how it works: instead of drowning in a never-ending to-do list, pick three main things to focus on each day. For example:

1. Finish a work presentation.
2. Prep dinner for the family.
3. Spend 30 minutes reading or playing with your kids.

Doesn’t that feel so much more manageable already? I believe the rule of three should be listed among the best productivity tips for moms! We get distracted and overstimulated so easily and so often that we need something simple to lean against.   

Why the Rule of Three works for moms (and why it’s biblical!)

The Rule of Three works because it aligns with how our brains are wired. Experts in the rule of three psychology say that our brains can only handle so much at once. Too many tasks create overwhelm, but focusing on three things helps us feel accomplished and keeps us motivated. It’s like giving your brain a little pat on the back for a job well done.

But this isn’t just psychology; it’s biblical too. In Genesis, God created the world in six days, but He built in rest on the seventh. Balance was part of His design from the beginning. And let’s not forget Matthew 11:28-30, where Jesus says, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” The Rule of Three helps us live out that invitation to rest—not just physically, but mentally and emotionally.

As moms, we often put pressure on ourselves to do it all. But the truth is, we’re not supposed to. God didn’t design us to carry every burden. The Rule of Three lets us focus on what truly matters, leaving room for His grace to fill in the gaps.

How does the Rule of Three transform the daily routine for working moms?

The Rule of Three is particularly beneficial for working moms because it simplifies decision-making and reduces overwhelm. Here’s how the Rule of Three can make your mom life less chaotic:

1. It simplifies your day. Instead of trying to do everything, you focus on just three things. It’s like clearing out the mental clutter so you can actually breathe.
2. It reduces stress. A short, focused list feels doable. You’re no longer staring at a mountain of tasks you know you won’t finish.
3. It keeps you flexible. Life with kids is unpredictable. The Rule of Three lets you adjust when the baby skips a nap or a meeting runs late.
4. It creates balance. You can prioritize work, family, and even yourself (yes, you’re allowed to prioritize YOU!).
5. It honors God. By focusing on what matters most, you’re being a good steward of your time and energy.

This method can also be adapted to fit the working mom daily schedule template, helping you structure your day with intention.

How to incorporate the rule of three into your working mom daily schedule?

Implementing the rule of three in your daily routine of a working mother involves a few simple steps:

1. Start your day with prayer. 

Ask God to guide your priorities for the day. What three things will make the biggest difference?

• Work: Finish the client report.
• Home: Declutter the playroom.
• Personal: Spend 0.5-1 hour journaling or reading Scripture.

2. Be realistic with your daily routine. 

Don’t overload your three tasks. If you’ve got a newborn or a busy day, keep it simple. For example, a working mom schedule with an infant might include:

• Fold one load of laundry.
• Answer three important emails.
• Take a walk with the baby.

3. Pair it with routines. 

Use your morning and evening routines for working moms to bookend your day. For example:

• Morning: Pray, plan your three tasks, and get the kids ready.
• Evening: Reflect on your day, thank God for His grace, and prep for tomorrow.

4. Celebrate small wins. 

Did you complete your three tasks? Give God praise. Didn’t finish? That’s okay—His mercies are new every morning.

Example of a daily routine for working moms using the rule of three

Here’s an example of how the rule of three might look in a daily routine for working moms:

Mom morning routine:

• Wake up, pray, and set your three priorities.
• Prep breakfast and pack lunches.
• Get the kids ready for school.

In this post about a mom morning routine, I share the easy 4-step morning system that has helped me to stay productive for years. Don’t miss out! 

Mom daytime routine:

• Finish a major work project.
• Run a quick load of laundry.
• Spend 15 minutes outside with your toddler.

Mom evening routine:

• Share a meal with the family and talk about the day.
• Reflect on your wins and challenges.
• Spend time in prayer or read a devotional.

By keeping it simple, you’ll feel less stressed and more present for the things (and people) that matter most. 

This structure not only keeps you focused but also aligns with the needs of a working mom schedule with an infant or older children.

Daily routine for working moms: less is more, and three is just right!

The daily routine for working moms doesn’t have to be perfect; it just needs to work for you.

As moms, we often feel like we have to do it all. But God never asked us to. He simply asks us to be faithful with what He’s given us. By embracing the Rule of Three psychology trick, you can streamline your day, reduce stress, and ensure that your efforts are focused on what truly matters. 

Whether you’re managing a demanding job, caring for young kids, or running a household, this method can transform your working mom daily schedule template into a more manageable and fulfilling experience.

So, the next time you feel overwhelmed by the chaos of life, remember: you only need to focus on three things. With this mindset, you’ll not only accomplish more but also enjoy the journey. And isn’t that what matters most?

So, take a deep breath. Write down your three priorities. And trust that God’s grace will cover the rest. After all, life isn’t about perfection — it’s about progress and purpose. You’ve got this because He’s got you.

What’s one way you simplify your daily routine? Let’s encourage each other in the comments below!

If you loved this post on the daily routine for working moms, grab more inspiration:

• From Chaos to Bliss: Powerful Mom Morning Routine for a Fulfilling Workday
• Winter Cleaning As Worship (Checklist to Get Your Home and Heart Ready for Holidays)
• Stressed Out Mom? Try These 9 Simple Mindset Shifts for Inner Calm and Outer Order
• Why Do I Feel Like a Bad Mom? 9 Toxic Parenting Habits to Quit and Thrive!
• 50+ Strong Quotes for Working Moms to Encourage Those Losing Heart and Tired