How to Build Simple Reset Habits That Actually Stick
We all know the feeling – you try to start a new routine, but by week two it’s already slipped. As mums, our weeks are full of moving parts, so adding big new habits often feels impossible.
That’s why I love habit stacking. Instead of creating something brand new, you attach a simple reset to something you already do. That way it becomes second nature, no extra effort required.
What is habit stacking?
Habit stacking is the idea of linking a new habit to an existing one. For example:
- While the kettle boils, do a quick desk tidy.
- After the school run, take 5 minutes to brain dump.
- Before shutting your laptop on Friday, review your week.
It’s about pairing small resets with everyday routines so they actually stick.
Why it works
Our brains love patterns. When you consistently connect a habit to something you already do, it becomes automatic, no willpower needed. And when the habit is small, like a 5-minute tidy, it’s easier to keep going long-term.
One of my favourite stacks is clearing my downloads folder while I wait for the kettle to boil. It takes less than 2 minutes, but it means my laptop never gets clogged with files. It’s such a small thing, but it gives me a clearer head when I sit down to work.
More Ideas for Mums in Business
If you’re a mum running a business, habit stacking works beautifully because your days are already full of anchor points — things that happen whether you plan for them or not. Instead of trying to carve out new time, look at where you can tuck resets into what’s already there.
Here are some simple examples:
After the school run: Open your planner and jot down your three priorities for the day before diving into emails.
Before client calls: Do a two-minute desk tidy so you can show up with a clear head.
After making lunch for the kids: Check your receipts or subscriptions and tick off one financial task.
Before bedtime stories: Write down tomorrow’s to-dos so your brain can actually switch off.
None of these take long, but they stop the chaos from building up and help you feel more in control without adding another “thing to do” onto your plate.
You don’t need to overhaul your whole routine to feel calmer. Start small, pick one habit to stack this week, and let the consistency do the work.
And if you’d like a personalised reset plan with simple strategies like this, my Sort Your Week Out Mini Audit is the place to start. I’ll look at where things feel messy and give you practical ways to reset, without adding more to your plate.
Book your Mini Audit here: https://mumscreativecupboard.thrivecart.com/sort-my-week-out/
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