Balancing Life as a Mom and a Content Creator: Tips for Limiting Gadget Use While Staying Productive

As a mom of tweens and a content creator, I often find myself standing at the crossroads of responsibility, creativity, and connection. The line between balancing my job and my role as a mother sometimes feels blurry, especially when the screen time seems endless. The pressure to stay connected with my audience, produce content, and meet deadlines all while ensuring my kids have a healthy relationship with technology can feel overwhelming at times. I know I’m not alone in this struggle, and it’s a journey many of us moms face—juggling the demands of work with the need to set a positive example for our children, especially as they become more and more tech-savvy.

Over the years, I’ve learned that being a content creator doesn’t mean sacrificing my family’s well-being or my own peace of mind. It means being intentional with my time, setting boundaries, and finding ways to manage my work-life balance without feeling like I’m glued to my gadgets. Here’s what I’ve learned along the way, and I hope these tips help other moms in similar shoes.

1. Be Transparent with Your Kids

One of the first things I learned was the importance of being open with my kids about the work I do. When my tweens were younger, they didn’t fully understand why I was always on my phone or laptop, but as they’ve grown, they’ve started to recognize the reality that being a content creator is a job. I’ve had candid conversations with them about how creating content helps support our family and that sometimes I need to be on my gadgets to meet deadlines.

Transparency helps them understand why I spend time on my devices. I’ve found that when I include them in the conversation, they’re more likely to respect the boundaries I set and even learn from the structure I try to implement. For example, when I’m in the middle of creating content, I’ll tell them, “I need to finish this work for an hour, then we’ll do something fun together afterward.” It gives them a sense of structure and lets them know that their needs will still be met despite my work commitments.

2. Set Clear Boundaries for Screen Time—For Everyone

As a content creator, it’s easy to lose track of time when working on a project. I know I’m not alone when I say that sometimes I get sucked into an editing vortex or brainstorming session, and hours can fly by without me even realizing. However, I’ve learned that setting clear boundaries for screen time is crucial—not just for me, but for my kids as well.

I’ve implemented a daily “no gadget” rule after a certain hour, especially during dinner time and family moments. We put our phones and laptops away and engage in real-life conversations. I’ve also started to encourage my tweens to have similar tech-free times, like when we’re doing homework, playing board games, or just having a family movie night. This routine helps us all focus on quality time together without the distractions of notifications or the pull of social media.

3. Prioritize Tasks—Time Block and Batch Your Content

One of the ways I’ve been able to balance both my job as a content creator and my role as a mom is by practicing the art of time-blocking. I schedule my work hours just as I would any other job. This means dedicating specific chunks of time during the day to create content, edit videos, or engage with my audience, while leaving ample time for my kids and personal activities. 

Batching content creation is a game changer for me. Instead of sporadically making content throughout the day, I’ve started planning my content for the week and shooting several pieces in one sitting. This limits the amount of time I spend on gadgets throughout the week and helps me be more efficient. It’s important for me to model how to work smart, not hard, and teaching my kids that they, too, can structure their time effectively to get more done in less time.

4. Practice Digital Detox Days

For me, the most important thing has been allowing myself (and my family) digital detox days. Every week, I choose one day where I limit all gadget use. It’s not about rejecting technology altogether, but about intentionally stepping away to reconnect with my family, my thoughts, and my surroundings. During this day, I focus on activities that don’t involve screens—whether it’s hiking, reading, or having a picnic in the backyard.

This practice has helped me remember that life exists beyond the digital realm, and I don’t need to be tethered to my phone to stay connected. Plus, it’s a great way to show my tweens that it’s okay to take breaks from gadgets to recharge, both mentally and emotionally. I want them to know that technology should enhance life, not dominate it.

5. Involve Your Kids in Your Creative Process

Involving my kids in my creative process has not only helped bridge the gap between my work and family time but has also created a wonderful bonding experience. When I’m brainstorming content ideas, I sometimes ask my tweens for their opinions or let them help me with filming. They love being involved, and it gives them a sense of pride to know they contributed to something I’m creating.

This also opens up an opportunity for me to educate them about responsible use of gadgets and the importance of balancing work and play. We talk about the time and effort it takes to create content and how, just like them, I have to balance my responsibilities with fun activities. It’s a valuable lesson in both creativity and responsibility.

6. Set a Positive Example for Tech Usage

As a mom of tweens, I know that my actions speak louder than my words. If I want my kids to limit their screen time, I need to lead by example. I’ve worked hard to create a routine where my own gadget usage is purposeful and intentional. I’ve become more mindful about checking my phone in front of them, especially during important moments or conversations. I’ve also started to consciously put my phone down when we’re engaging in something as a family, whether it’s at the dinner table or during our weekend outings.

By setting this example, I hope my kids understand that technology is a tool, not a crutch. It’s something to be used mindfully, rather than an endless source of distraction. They’re watching me navigate this balance, and I want them to learn from my example.

7. Celebrate Small Wins Together

Lastly, celebrating small wins together is a key part of balancing my work and motherhood. Every time I hit a content milestone, whether it’s reaching a follower goal, completing a project, or simply being productive in the time I’ve set aside, I make sure to celebrate with my kids. This reinforces that my work is meaningful, but it also emphasizes that work-life balance is important.

We’ve had family “celebrations” that don’t involve gadgets—like baking cookies together or going to the park for an impromptu picnic. These moments allow us to celebrate as a family, reinforcing the idea that, while technology can be a part of our lives, our connections with each other are the true priority.

Final Thoughts

Being a content creator and a mom of tweens comes with its own set of challenges, especially when it comes to managing screen time. However, through transparency, intentionality, and setting clear boundaries, I’ve found a balance that works for my family and me. It’s all about being mindful of how technology fits into our lives and being present with our loved ones. I may not have all the answers, but one thing I know for sure is that as long as I’m teaching my kids the value of balancing their tech use and finding joy in the little things, I’m doing my job right.

Take it easy momma,

Jeannine

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