Mom Math: Putting a Value on Your Time, Energy, and Sanity
Let’s be real—moms are the original multitaskers. On any given day, you might be meal planning, managing school drop-offs, juggling work calls, and maybe (just maybe) drinking a cup of coffee before it goes cold. And somehow, you’re expected to do it all while saving money.
But here's the thing: not everything that saves dollars is worth the mental load.
What if the smartest financial move you could make is the one that gives you back your time—or your peace of mind?
Welcome to Mom Math—a way of looking at money decisions through the lens of what matters most: your time, your energy, and your sanity.
💬 “Ordering groceries online added $9 to my bill, but saved me two hours and an impulse candy aisle meltdown. Worth it.” — Alyssa, mom of 3
The Invisible Price Tags Moms Pay
So many of our decisions come with hidden costs. Here are a few familiar scenarios and the Mom Math behind them:
💬 “I realized I was spending more fixing my own car than letting a trusted shop do it. My time has value too.” — Tiffany, working mom of two
How to Know When to Spend vs. Save
Here’s a simple Mom Math checklist you can run through the next time you’re debating a money decision:
✅ Will this cost less in time, stress, or future expenses?
✅ Is the cheaper option robbing me of joy or rest?
✅ Will this help me be more present—for myself or my family?
✅ Can I afford this by using tools like my credit card rewards, cashback, or automatic savings?
If you’re checking at least two boxes, it’s probably a smart investment in YOU.
Pro Mom Move: Let Tech Do the Heavy Lifting
Saving time and money doesn’t have to mean sacrificing your sanity. Many moms use tools like:
Automatic savings split your direct deposit between your checking account (90%) and savings account (10%) — that way you are “paying yourself first”
Joint accounts with your teens to teach themabout spending without risking your balance
Online banking and mobile apps that let you set up notifications so you can keep an eye on your balances while waiting in the pickup line
💬 “I finally opened a separate savings account for things I want—like a massage or new shoes. It’s guilt-free and reminds me I count too.” — Jen, new mom
Because You’re Worth More Than Just a Price Tag
Motherhood is full of trade-offs. But that doesn’t mean you should always be the one who gives something up.
So here’s your reminder: Your time has value. Your energy is worth protecting. And your well-being is a wise investment.
Mom Math isn’t just about saving money—it’s about spending it where it counts most.