From a toddler mom juggling her life amidst the beautiful chaos.
A quiet truth I’ve figured out in being a mom is that the meaning of life becomes bigger when you slow down a bit. Not in a big, let’s-change-our-whole-life kind of way, though. Just simple and a little bit-of-balance-in-my-life kind of way.
This is where I fell in love with Lagom for moms—the art of living with an acceptance of balance and simplicity amidst the madness of motherhood.
In my life, there was an unreasonable chase for perfection—productivity, presence, fitness, fashion, organization, restfulness, and finally, joy—all simultaneously, every minute. I crammed my calendar days with activities, worried about what the house looked like, and scrolled on social media for inspiration while being utterly exhausted. Sound familiar?
We all want to feel like our days have meaning, like we’re doing a good job. Yet far too often, it’s the pace at which we’re living that robs us of the very feeling we crave.
And then I found Lagom for moms.
The Problem: Overwhelm, the Load, and the Myth of “Doing It All”
Motherhood today is fast, full, and loud. The pressure to do more—a perfectly decorated home, curated outfits, healthy meals, enriching toddler activities, successful career, spotless house, and self-care regimen—can feel unrelenting.
And while beauty, inspiration, or even good décor are well worth pursuing, the relentless race toward them is what exhausts us, disconnects us, and makes us long for a different way.
What if that different way was not achieving more—but achieving less, more mindfully?
The Solution: Lagom for Moms—Not Too Little, Not Too Much
Lagom (lah-gom) is the Swedish word for “not too little, not too much—just right.” It embodies life with balance, embracing simplicity, and sustainable rhythms to feed your body, home, and heart.
Serendipitously, the moment I discovered Living Lagom: A Swedish Guide to a Balanced Life (Hygge and Lagom) by Maya Thoresen, it felt like an exhale of so much pent-up air from my lungs. Her thoughts on slowing down, being intentional, and simplifying life spoke to my mom heart.
Not too long after, I read Lagom by Niki Brantmark—another gem of a book filled with suggestions for your home, your schedule, and even your fashion choices. The consensus drawn from both books is that I didn’t need to be transformed. I just needed to carve out room for what really mattered.
How Lagom for Moms Looks in My Real Life
Lagom is not minimalism. It doesn’t mean giving up your workouts or hobbies. It means choosing things that align with your values—and letting go of the excess. Here’s how Lagom manifests in my life:
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In our home: We maintain simple and soothing decor. We keep what we truly cherish and discard the rest.
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In our everyday rhythm: We do one special outing a day, whether it’s a walk in the neighborhood or simple time in the backyard.
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Fitness and rest: I still show up for a good sweaty session—bike rides, yoga, or movement that feels good—while balancing it with gentle walks and rest days.
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Clothing: I only wear comfortable clothing that makes me feel good. Not just trendy—actually comfortable.
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Screen time and quiet: We have quiet times, white spaces, and intentional screen time.
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On me-time: I draw cues from my Self-Care Routine for Moms—little rituals like a cup of hot coffee, reading, or stepping outside for fresh air.
It’s not perfect—but it’s peaceful. And to me, that peace carries very deep meaning.
Join the 10-Day Lagom Challenge for Moms
Inspired by Maya Thoresen’s 21-day practice, I created a gentle, doable 10-Day Lagom Challenge. These prompts are crafted to fit into your already-full life. This is not about what more you can do—it’s about doing what really matters.
Each day offers a small, mindful action to reconnect with your values, your body, and your home. Read through the prompts below or download the printable 10-Day Lagom Challenge checklist here to hang on your fridge or tuck into your journal.
10 Days of Lagom for Moms
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Create White Space
Cancel or decline one non-essential commitment. Make room for breathing. -
Go Outside—with No Plan
Let your child lead you on a slow wander. No destination needed. -
One Spot, One Declutter
Choose a drawer, shelf, or surface. Clear the clutter. Breathe in the simplicity. -
Eat Mindfully
Sit and enjoy one meal without multitasking. You and your food. Your presence matters. -
A Joyful “No”
Say no today—guilt-free. Guard your energy. -
Simple Connection
10 minutes of play, reading, or cuddling. No phone. Just presence. -
Dress with Intention
Wear something that makes you feel really good. Your favorite yoga pants and a smile get bonus points. -
Just for You Quiet Moment
Five minutes of stillness, journaling, or deep breathing. Start or end your day here. -
Make It Good Enough
Laundry can wait. Dinner can be basic. Let it be easy, not perfect. -
End with Gratitude
Write or speak three things you’re grateful for in this particular season of motherhood.
Want to keep the challenge close? Download the 10-Day Lagom Challenge to make a plan, check off and revisit anytime.
Looking for More Inspiration and Activities?
If lagom for moms speaks to you, you might also enjoy:
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Slow Living for Moms – thoughts on creating a slower rhythm with toddlers
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Healthy Habits for Moms – sustainable habits that are practical and stick
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Slow Living Lifestyle – what slowing down looks like across all life areas
Each of these posts offers gentle ideas to help you craft a life that’s less hectic and more aligned with what truly matters to you.
Final Thoughts: Lagom for Moms Means Balance, Not Perfection
Lagom reminds us that balance—not perfection—is what leads to a meaningful life. You don’t need a perfect home, an intense workout regime, or a packed calendar. Sometimes, the most powerful thing is having just enough.
Take a breath today, mama.
Decompress. Say one “no” and one “yes” to what feels right.
Lose yourself in a favorite book. Throw open the windows. Sip something warm.
And remind yourself:
You are enough.
You matter as a mother.
And living life more slowly and deliberately is absolutely within reach.
Want to keep the 10-Day Lagom Challenge close by? Download the printable 10-Day Lagom Challenge checklist for an easy reference and fun way to check off your progress.