Guest post written by Beth Rush of Body+Mind

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Being a parent means juggling a lot at once. Traditional productivity advice frequently feels out
of touch with the reality of never-ending to-do lists and unexpected chaos.
The new “lazy genius” TikTok trend can help you focus on what truly matters — getting stuff
done and feeling good about yourself. It’s all about creating a method that works for you.

What Is Tiktok’s ‘Lazy Genius’ Trend?

If you’ve ever scrolled through TikTok looking for productivity hacks, you might have
encountered a lot of different videos — some more helpful than others.
Bestselling author and podcaster Kendra Adachi created TikTok’s “lazy genius” trend. The
approach is all about being smart about what matters and letting go of perfection in everything
else. The “lazy genius” method encourages you to prioritize, simplify and focus on systems that
work for you — all without feeling guilty.
This mindset is a game-changer for working parents who are juggling careers, kids and
personal well-being. It shifts the focus from perfection to practical and realistic solutions.

10 ‘Lazy Genius’ Routines for Working Moms

Being a “lazy genius” is all about using efficient methods, easy hacks and to-do lists that
actually make sense. Here are the top 10 “lazy genius” routines for working moms.

1. Organize Your Home With Function In Mind
   Forget Pinterest-perfect organization. A “lazy genius” home is organized with function in mind. If a
   system is too complicated to maintain, it’s not working. Figure out what makes life
   easier—whether it’s a bin for random toys or a drop zone by the door for backpacks — and use
   it. The goal isn’t perfection. It’s function.
2. Name What Matters Most
   Work, family time, your personal well-being — everything competes for your attention. Name
   what matters most each day instead of prioritizing everything. Maybe today, it’s making a
   homemade meal. Tomorrow, it could be an uninterrupted hour of work.
   Write down your top three priorities each morning. This simple habit helps prevent the feeling of
   being pulled in a million directions, making sure you dedicate energy to what truly matters.
3. Make Meaningful To-Do Lists
   Your to-do list should work for you instead of overwhelming you. Separate tasks into different
   categories depending on how much energy they require. Consider breaking tasks into
   manageable steps and limit yourself to three main ones per day. A list that resonates with your
   realistic energy levels will help you focus on what’s necessary and reduce decision fatigue.
   Another useful trick is time-blocking. Assign a specific time window to each task so you’re not
   left wondering if you’ll get everything done. Even a simple 20-minute window for doing laundry
   or answering emails can keep you on track.
4. Say Goodbye to the All-Or-Nothing Mindset
   The belief that if you can’t do something perfectly, it’s not worth doing at all is one of the biggest
   productivity killers. The “lazy genius” approach flips this narrative. Instead of adopting an all-or-
   nothing mindset, understand the importance of taking small steps. A 10-minute cleanup is better
   than nothing.
   Instead of thinking, “I don’t have time for a full workout, so I won’t exercise at all,” try exercising
   for five minutes or taking a quick walk. Simple actions like these may seem insignificant, but
   they improve your mental health and strongly impact your long-term well-being.
5. Create Go-To Patterns
   Parents constantly face decision fatigue. Creating and sticking to go-to patterns when you’re
   short on time can be a game changer.
   By eliminating unnecessary choices, you save time and mental energy for what really matters.
   Establish weekly meal themes, like Taco Tuesdays. Create an easy outfit formula — like jeans,
   a t-shirt and sneakers — for days when you’re running out of the door or have a long list of
   errands to get through.
6. Help Future You Today
   A little planning today makes life easier tomorrow. Ask yourself: What small actions can I take
   now that my future self will thank me for? It could be as simple as setting out workout clothes or
   scheduling an appointment in advance. Developing a habit of future-thinking keeps you ahead
   of chaos. Even dedicating five minutes to prepping for tomorrow can make a world of difference.
7. Use AI Tools for School Lunches
   Take the guesswork and frustration out of constantly planning your children’s school lunches.
   AI-driven tools and apps can generate recipes based on what’s in your kitchen. Using grocery
   delivery services or shopping list apps can also eliminate last-minute stress. A few clicks can
   save hours of decision-making each month.
8. Manage External Demands
   From school emails to social obligations, external demands pile up quickly. Deal with them the
   “lazy genius” way by setting boundaries. Create auto-responses for common requests, schedule
   time for family admin tasks, and use a family calendar for weekly activities. Controlling your time
   means reclaiming your peace.
9. Batch-Make Snacks
   Preparing snacks ahead of time saves you from last-minute scrambling. Setting aside time once
   a week to wash, chop and portion snacks into containers of snack bags can make your life so
   much easier. As a bonus tip, consider storing the snacks in an easy-to-reach spot so your kids
   can help themselves, freeing you up from constant snack duty.
   

Embracing Your Inner ‘Lazy Genius’

Tiktok’s “lazy genius” trend is not about doing everything flawlessly. It’s about making life easier
in ways that matter to you. By creating “good enough” systems, you can reduce stress while
saving time and taking care of yourself. So whether it’s a quick break, a low-effort dinner plan or
a simplified routine, allow yourself to be a lazy genius.

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