How to Escape Time Scarcity: Reorient Your Relationship with Hurry
Oftentimes we wait until our breaking point to make a change and even then we are hesitant. Fear sets in and we find ourselves “trading short term discomfort for long term dysfunction.” In one of the recent cohorts we facilitated, we shared this phrase and it struck a major chord for one of our participants. She resonated so deeply with the sentiment that it became her new barometer for how she wanted to relate to making changes in her life.
As you meander through this blog post, think about how this phrase impacts you, and why you might still find yourself paralyzed even when you’re treading water.
"From 'always on' to 'owning my time,' this is about ditching the hustle and finding your calm amidst the daily juggle." - Kara Fresk, T.I.M. Coach
Slowing it Down: Reorienting Your Relationship to Time Scarcity and Hurry
A word from Kara and Greer: “Hurry culture. I know we fall victim to it, we know you do too. The seduction around “more is more” and “faster is better” can have such a grip on us without us even knowing it. Ever found yourself changing lanes excessively to get to your destination 30 seconds quicker? Ever insisted on carrying all of the groceries in from the car (to a ridiculous extent) in one go just to avoid the extra 1 minute in making an extra trip? Well, every action that you take begins with a thought and that is what this blog post is all about: allowing you to reframe your thoughts and giving you actionable tools so you can start relating to time in a way that empowers you vs. suffocates you.“
The High Cost of Constant Hurry
Many moms live in a perpetual state of rush. This phenomenon, known as “time scarcity,” happens when we believe we never have enough hours in the day. Harvard Business Review highlights how constantly feeling pressed for time leads to increased stress, poorer health outcomes, and lower productivity.
Signs you’re stuck in hurry mode include:
Multitasking everything, even family time.
Feeling guilty when you rest.
Equating your worth with how much you accomplish.
Recognizing these patterns can help you begin to make changes.
Reframing Time Scarcity
Escaping time scarcity starts with shifting your mindset from “never enough” to “just enough.” Researchers at the University of Rochester found that practicing “time affluence”—the sense that you have ample time—leads to greater happiness and lower stress. Try reframing how you see time:
Instead of saying, “I don’t have time,” say, “I’m choosing to spend my time on…”
Prioritize moments of presence, like eating lunch without distractions or pausing for a short walk.
Fueling up for the rest of the day! Even with a packed schedule, taking a few minutes for myself and a good lunch is a non-negotiable. #WorkingMomLife #LunchBreak #SelfCare
Steps Toward Slowing Down
Ready to slow down? Start with these small but powerful steps:
Schedule White Space: Block 15–30 minutes daily for unscheduled time to reset your mind.
Practice Mindfulness: Apps like Calm offer guided meditations, helping you practice slowing your thoughts and breathing.
Set Time Boundaries: Protect time with family or self-care like you would a meeting. Turn off notifications during these blocks.
Research shows slowing down not only improves well-being but also makes you more effective in your work and relationships (American Psychological Association).
Building a Sustainable Routine
Slowing down isn’t about doing less; it’s about doing what matters with intention. Build a routine that reflects your priorities:
Choose one to three key tasks per day, rather than a never-ending to-do list.
Batch tasks—answer emails or do chores at set times instead of reacting constantly.
Involve your family by setting shared quiet time, teaching kids the value of rest and focus.
Crafting a routine that works for you, not against you, is a game-changer. It's not about perfection, but about creating sustainable habits that bring a little more calm and a lot more productivity to your days. What's one small routine you're committed to building this week? #WorkingMomLife #SustainableHabits #RoutineGoals #MomLifeHack
Ready to Feel Calmer?
Breaking free from the rush is possible with small, intentional steps. Want support creating a more peaceful, sustainable life? Find community and tools by joining The Integrated Mom.