Q. I’m writing this with a half-warm cup of coffee in one hand, a back-to-school supply list in the other, and a growing knot of anxiety in my chest.
Back-to-school season is almost here, and I already feel behind. Between organizing my kids’ schedules, getting them to and from activities, checking their homework, and making sure they have clean socks, it’s a lot. But that’s just one piece of the puzzle.
My parents are aging and starting to need more help, too. I’m the only one nearby, so things like doctor appointments, grocery runs, and tech support have quietly become part of my weekly routine. I love them, and I want to be there, but it’s a constant mental juggle.
In addition, I have a side hustle. Although it doesn’t require a lot of time and energy, it’s starting to feel like another thing on the ever-growing list I can’t keep up with.
I feel stretched too thin, like I’m doing everything halfway and nothing particularly well. I know this is a familiar story for a lot of people, but I guess I’m looking for some grounding. How do I get through this season without burning out completely? Are there ways to organize or approach all this chaos that can help?
A. First, let me say that I see you. The image you painted, half-finished coffee, back-to-school lists, and a mind running in ten different directions, is one that so many of us recognize, even if we don’t say it out loud.
You’re managing a household, caring for aging parents, supporting your children’s needs, and running a side hustle, all at once. That’s not just a full plate, that’s a buffet. Let’s talk about how to help you breathe again.
Start by simplifying where you can. You’re not going to fix everything in one sweep, and you don’t have to. Instead, choose one area of overwhelm to improve first. It could be your mornings, your caregiving responsibilities, or your side hustle time. Small shifts often lead to bigger relief.
Create a weekly flow, not a rigid schedule. Instead of packing your calendar with tightly timed to-dos, try creating a weekly rhythm. Pick one day a week to prepare for school, clothes, lunches, and supplies. Assign each child one small chore to help out. If possible, cluster your parents’ appointments and errands on a single day, so everyone knows your availability. Carve out one to two hours of protected “work windows” per week for your side hustle. Use a timer, shut down distractions, then let it go when the window closes.
Another tip is to ask for help without apology. Reach out to friends, extended family, or even neighbors who might help with small things like carpooling or checking in on your parents now and then. Look into services that support caregivers, such as local senior centers that might offer transportation, meal help, or even respite care. Talk openly with your family about how you’re feeling. Even kids can understand that mom is doing a lot and needs everyone’s help.
Lastly, don’t forget to care for yourself. You matter just as much as everyone you’re caring for. Schedule something for yourself each week, even if it’s just 30 minutes of silence, a walk, or watching a show no one else likes. When things feel messy, remember, showing up imperfectly is still showing up.
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