Office Essentials for Moms: What Gets Me Through the Workday
Mornings in my house are anything but calm. Between getting the kids dressed, packing their bags, and making sure everyone eats at least a few bites of breakfast, it’s a miracle I make it out the door on time. By the time I finally sit down at my desk, I feel like I’ve already lived a full day. That’s why I rely on a few essentials to get me through my workday—items that keep me organized, comfortable, and, most importantly, sane.
These are the things that help me juggle both worlds a little more smoothly.
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The Bag That Holds It All
I used to carry cute purses—until I became a mom. I had every color, size and form you could imagine. Now, my work bag is part laptop tote, part survival kit. It holds my essentials, plus a few unexpected items like a random toy car or a leftover snack from yesterday. A spacious, organized bag is a must-have to keep everything in one place.
Pouches for Purse
To keep everything organize inside my purse
Coffee (or Tea) That Stays Hot
Like many moms, I’ve accepted that my coffee will never be enjoyed hot at home. That’s why my insulated travel mug is a lifesaver—it keeps my coffee warm on the go.
Mug warmer
Once I’m at the office, my trusty mug warmer ensures I don’t have to keep microwaving the same cup over and over.
A Water Tumbler That Reminds Me to Hydrate
Some days, I’ll realize at 3 PM that all I’ve had to drink is coffee. Having a large water tumbler on my desk reminds me to actually drink water throughout the day—and I bring it along for daycare pickup, too.
A Lunch Bag That Actually Works
There was a time when I just grabbed whatever I could find for lunch—but that often meant skipping meals or eating something unsatisfying. Now, I bring a well-packed lunch bag with something nourishing, so I don’t end up eating my kids’ leftover crackers in the car.
A Kids’ Lunch Bag for the Ride Home
If you’ve ever picked up tired, hungry kids from daycare, you know the struggle. I keep a separate little bag with water and snacks just for them. It’s a game-changer for making the ride home peaceful (or at least tantrum-free!).
Noise-Canceling Headphones
When I need to focus at work, drowning out distractions is key. Noise-canceling headphones help when I’m deep in work mode, and a good playlist gives me an energy boost when I need it.
A Touch of Home: Framed Family Photo
On the toughest workdays, a quick glance at the framed picture of my little family on my desk is enough to remind me why I do it all. It’s a small thing, but it brings me so much comfort.
Something That Feels Like Me
Amid all the responsibilities, it’s easy to forget to do little things that make us feel like ourselves. Whether it’s a cozy sweater, a special pen, or a candle at my desk, I try to keep something nearby that makes me feel good.
A “Mom Emergency Kit”
Somewhere in my bag, I always have a little pouch with the essentials: hand sanitizer, lip balm, Advil, a stain remover stick, and of course, snacks. Keep an eye out for a post where I’ll share exactly what’s inside mine! Because you never know when you—or someone else—will need them.
Some days it feels like I’m sprinting from one task to the next, balancing deadlines and daycare pickups, coffee cups and cuddles. But these little essentials? They add up to something big. They help me show up—at work, for my family, and for myself. Whether your “office” is a boardroom or your kitchen table, I see you. Let’s keep cheering each other on. And if you’ve got a secret essential that makes your day smoother, please share it—I’m always looking to add to my survival kit!
