High-Maintenance Habits I Do to Stay Low-Maintenance (Mindful Mom Edition)

If you’ve ever felt like you were about to lose it because your laptop froze during a Teams call again, or dinner took 15 minutes longer than planned, I see you. I am you.

As someone who gets overwhelmed very easily (yes, even the rice boiling over stresses me out), I’ve learned that staying "low maintenance" actually takes some very high-maintenance habits. Especially with work deadlines, toddler tantrums, tech meltdowns, and just life happening all at once, I realized I needed systems that help me stay grounded.

So here are some intentionally "high-effort" things I do to keep my sanity intact — not because I want to look perfect, but because I want to feel okay, be present for my family, and most importantly, not lose myself in the chaos.

1. 10 Minutes of Meditation: For the Sane Me (And Future Me)

I never believed in sitting still until I realized I had no idea how to sit still anymore. Just 10 minutes of intentional breathing, every day, gives me the space to deal with everything else. It’s especially helped during those moments when the laptop updates mid-task or when my toddler throws mashed bananas on freshly mopped floors.

Meditation doesn't erase stress — it gives you the pause button. And sometimes that’s all you need to respond instead of react.

2. Monthly Declutter: Therapy for the Soul (and Closet)

Every month, I audit my wardrobe, skincare, and makeup drawers. I throw out expired products, donate clothes I haven’t worn, and keep only what I actually use. It’s oddly satisfying, sometimes emotional, but always liberating.

Beyond the physical space, it gives me a reality check: Do I really need another serum? Why am I holding on to jeans that don’t fit my current life?

3. Digital Detox: Leave the Phone, Find Yourself

Even an hour without my phone resets my brain. Scrolling endlessly doesn’t help my anxiety — it fuels it. So now, I leave my phone in another room, take my toddler for a walk, or just sit in silence. The best part? You hear yourself again.

You don’t need a 7-day detox — just try being physically away from your phone once a day. That’s where the magic begins.

4. Invest in Quality Basics: Goodbye Clutter, Hello Clarity

I'm slowly embracing minimalism, and it starts with choosing better over more. A great white tee, the comfiest black joggers, or just one good pair of kitchen scissors — these are the things that make daily life simpler and smoother.

Less decision fatigue. More ease. More space to be.

5. Movement = Mind Cleanse

I used to think movement had to be intense — now I know it just has to be intentional. Whether it’s yoga, dancing with my toddler, or just walking, moving my body helps me feel aligned and present.

It’s my daily reset button — and sometimes, the only time I get to hear myself think.

6. Waking Up Early with Purpose

It’s not about the 5 AM club. It’s about waking up before the world does — for you. I use this time to journal, sit with my thoughts, or simply sip tea in peace. It sets the tone for my day and reminds me that I exist outside my to-do list.

Early mornings are my sacred pause before the rush begins.

7. Oil Your Hair, Mask Your Hair: Prevent the Burnout (and the Breakage)

This sounds simple, but trust me — oiling your hair two times a week is an act of self-care. It saves me hours at salons and keeps my hair from turning into a stress barometer.

A Sunday hair mask has become my way of slowing down. A literal treatment for burnout.

8. Skincare = Daily Therapy

Whether it's a homemade mask or a two-step Korean routine, skincare is my mini ritual. I don’t follow the 10-step hype, but I do it every single day. It’s a moment of care that’s just for me — no phone, no noise, no multitasking.

It’s not vanity. It’s survival.

9. Digital Declutter: Marie Kondo Your Phone

Every few weeks, I review my phone — delete the apps that suck time, turn off pointless notifications, and clean up my gallery. It’s wild how much mental noise comes from digital junk.

You can’t have a clear mind in a cluttered phone.

Final Thoughts

I used to think being "low maintenance" meant not caring. Now I know it means caring enough to create systems that support your peace. These habits are my non-negotiables — not because I want to impress anyone, but because I want to enjoy my life, my baby, my work… without constantly feeling like I’m falling behind.

Sometimes, it’s the little high-maintenance rituals that keep the big breakdowns at bay.

Start small. Breathe deep. And don’t underestimate what 10 minutes of meditation can do for your future self.