MY NON-NEGOTIABLES as a homemaker: Daily Habits for a peace-filled, purposeful, and productive home!

[@susancnw59]

I'm 64 tomorrow & I often wish that I had been more...'purposeful' in all my interactions with them & not as impatient sometimes.I'd particularly like to go to the yr when I home schooled out #2 son. I'd had a stroke the summer before (chiropractor) & he was having a very hard time separating from me. I'd honestly give anything to have those days back sometimes as we lost him 3 wks before he turned 30. He'd been married about 8 months & they were so excited about the future. He'd found a job he liked & had told me that he planned on having the regional Mr in about 18 months. But we had so many wonderful memories with him & them & he always knew.that we loved him.

[@bethanyhutchinson6714]

Bedtime stalling is SO real! 😂 My youngest is 8 and will pull out the most philosophical questions to ask her dad the moment it’s time for sleeping! Most days he’ll humor her unless they all were dragging their feet getting ready!❤

[@karlalewis1209]

Great video, as always. One thing my mom started when we were in grade school was “marble jars”…she also wanted us to learn to see and do things around the house that needed to be done without having to be told to do them. Every night at bedtime, we were supposed to tell her a chore we had done that day that was something we just did on our own without having to be asked to do it (and that also was not already our responsibility, like pet care, making our beds, etc.). She would put one or two marbles in a small jelly jar for each of us for each thing that met that criteria. We lost a marble if we didn’t do anything that day. Once the jar was full, we got $2 to spend (back in the 1980s), but you could make it any reward that works for you. We could fill the jar faster by doing more. It was pretty motivating to my brothers and me!

[@sheriashbeck6879]

I love the pic of you and Josh hugging in the kitchen

[@lindatawera8013]

Megan you're not the only one who runs out of energy at night to put everything in order. Another day tomorrow 😄

[@MeganFoxUnlocked]

Ahhhg! you stayed til the end. I'm both grateful and horrified :)!!

[@susannagiesey9657]

There's a couple evening tasks I see real merit in doing before bed. They are the dishes and drying wet clothes. I thought of it when someone shared how they made it through a power outage. I wouldn't want to have a sink full of dirty dishes or a ton of wet clothes, bedding, or towels to deal with if the power went out. Need that generator for more important things. Just a thought.

[@cynthiafisher9907]

@@susannagiesey9657Unless that’s a regular occurrence, I wouldn’t give it that much thought.

[@kristyhenson473]

Teaching your kids to see the work that needs to be done is an AMAZING life skill! What an incredible blessing you are giving to them and their future spouses by actively teaching it

[@Starlight-yv8dq]

I thought to myself also - oh wow it’s not just doing the chores - but having them analyze their environment to see what needs to be done and then how to take care of it- that is sometimes the hardest part of taking care of the home- is knowing what and how to do it and how often to do it to keep it maintained- lol I’m still learning how to do that!😂

[@TheMissTiiine]

Hey I love watching all your videos. I have been married to a Mennonite for 3 years and have not yet dared to become a mother because I was too afraid of changing my life. Thanks to your videos and your relaxed nature, I see the beauty of being a mother. Thank you❤ Greetings from Germany

[@ozarkview928]

When my children were little I hardly ever made my bed . Way to many other demanding things going on ! But now that we’re practically empty nesters and our bedroom is on the main floor I make my bed and it makes me feel accomplished. So different seasons bring changes .

[@sgageasl8773]

I am 57 years old and the one thing that is so important is to treat your husband to what he enjoys!! it goes a very long way and comes back to you. My husband is always appreciative to have a good meal that he loves. He is a school teacher and most days works through his lunch. Let's take care of our best friends. I am not a full time homemaker anymore, I work and still have one kiddo who is a senior. Making the choices that are the most important for your family is what matters. Hopefully this video will help other women decide what is a must in their life for the wellness of their family, Ladies, we set the temperature in our homes. God Bless

[@ivanamarcianesi70]

I have to say... the fact that you shared that you go to bed in the nigths without pick up your house just made my day!!! It´s so rare to find real people in the internet, people who are striving to take care of their family and please the Lord, and get it all done. I just wanted to say thank you! The Lord bless you and your family, greetings from Argentina!

[@jukes243]

I've been doing unhurried errands for years.... small loads of laundry, rotated cleaning days and scattered shopping days. As for my bed, I turn down the bedding in the morning (to air) and make it in the afternoon. Your children will thank you for teaching them valuable life skills. Especially financial ones.

[@mariposavioleta9007]

I'm glad you mentioned not to feel bad if our non-negotiables are not the same as yours. Many think that everyone has to do the same as they do. As someone who is chronically ill and disabled I'm not able to get dressed every morning and my schedule is not always the same order depending on how my energy, pain and abilities are each day. That used to be different prior to my accident when I had differing abilities and was very active working 60+hrs per week and getting outside easily 1000hrs/yr. I admire your efforts with your family and that you also know that what works for you doesn' always work for everyone.

[@florencejoy5209]

"Do not Experiment with the food on your husband " thats a big one. I love to try New food. He just wants the same 8 meals for all his life.

[@theJOURNEYTOGODdiaries]

Oh, I thought it’s just me with this kind of problem 😂😂😂

[@florencejoy5209]

:D

[@sallyannc3176]

I was never a bed maker either when my kids were young - I always aired my bed tho (which I think is actually much more important). My view was always that no one saw our bedroom anyway!

[@reanabrand8283]

Watched till the end 😄! Your house is YOUR space so if you want to leave a few things to rather do in the morning don't feel bad about it. I am the same, I would rather enjoy doing it in the morning when I am energetic than to force myself to do it in the evening when I feel tired!

[@rosalieschmucker8037]

I honestly envy people who can embrace a day with their bed unmade or embrace a night of sleep without tidying up the house. My OCD would probably kill me if I did either of those! Your happy life is proof it wouldn't harm me so maybe I should try 😁😁

[@MeganFoxUnlocked]

No keep doing what works for you! I would NEVER NOT get dressed. We're all wired differently.

[@kcotjo]

Megan, first of all you look wonderful in glasses!!!! I think daily routines and habits are so important. I am now retired after working for 36+ years outside of my home and raising 2 sons. I now have 6 grandchildren. So my daily routines and habits were out of necessity and getting to work by 8:00 am. I still am an early riser but I don't have near the rush that I used to have to do. My husband still works full time at our business so he is usually out the door by 7 and I see him off. I follow a cleaning routine and do something each day. Being an empty nester sure does help with less chores. I am a firm believer that children need routine so you are doing a wonderful job with your family in that regard. You are so enjoyable to watch and learn from. Yes, I can still learn! You are one of my favorites to follow and I appreciate your honesty and authenticity!! It is more important to get your rest at the end of the day instead of making sure your house is clean before bed. You put in long days so good to give yourself grace!! Thank you for taking us along and being an inspiration for me!!! May God bless your family!

[@pammiedoodle8693]

I try so hard to have the house in order before I go to bed because I absolutely hate getting up to a messy house! That said, it doesn’t always happen because it just depends on how tired I am or if I don’t have to work the next day. The world won’t spin off it’s axis either way!🤭 Great video🥰

[@mrswbraden]

hello Megan! Im 60, a mum of 4, granny of a few, and boy oh boy, did I need this encouragement! Thankyou doesnt seem enough, I truly mean it from the heart :) Gods blessings xxx

[@deborahfeliciana2163]

I'm a 68 year old Gramma raising 2 of my grandchildren. Age 5 years and 15 months. I really have learned a lot from Meghan. I love her videos. And they give this old gramma some hope that I can still do it

[@dizzydawn8266]

I'm the opposite. I end up tidying up at night. I don't like seeing mess in the morning before heading to work. A like that little extra time in bed 😊

[@Thornydale_Homestead]

My husband and I also have opposite appetites for meals, and I do the same thing you do. He also takes leftovers from dinner to work for lunch and has told me repeatedly that it is the highlight of his whole day and he appreciates me so much for not serving him the things that he he hates even though knows I love them. It’s one of those things that seem like they should be a small thing but it’s actually a big deal. ❤

[@mrsbethanyelise]

Aside from normal have-to's, I always read 2 chapters of either a Bible based character development book or productivity book, and 2 podcasts for self development and mindset. Sometimes I'm reading at 2am before I get to bed, but I get it done!

[@pamelakoiro2554]

Hey! I'm in Lancaster too!! Once I heard that, I had to like and subscribe. Woohoo 🎉

[@AngiDas]

I think teaching all of your kids and making in life skills is probably the most invaluable thing you can do for your kids. I feel like my kids have a lot of good life skills, but my son is still uncomfortable in the kitchen and he’ll learn how to do it eventually.

[@oatmealeverymorning]

Actually that spontaneous creativity without contextualizing it for the kids first is probably really great for their development. And it teaches them about their mother's humanity.

[@brookemckenzie1862]

“Looking for them” I love that!!

[@spunkycat6144]

That sheepdog situation is so cute. I know she got groomed but she is adorable in her little sheep fur state. I have a shihtzu and cannot keep up with her crazy hair, no matter how perfect she looked a few weeks ago. I self groom her with all the tools, because it's so pricey but once a year I get her professionally groomed.

[@godisgood2919]

Basically, all about enjoying your kids amd husband. I love it! I think it's special that you like to make your husband things he enjoys for supper.

[@pamelakatschor8739]

I have always been the one to do better and have more focus and energy in the morning. So glad I’m not the only one.😊

[@danielafurlan322]

Yes, your bedroom look amazing. Thank you for sharing, the Kids look so grown up.🎉🎉🎉🎉

[@kittikondratyuk2115]

This was such a fun topic to hear about! I never made my bed until my husband commented how much he enjoyed climbing into a tidy bed at the end of the day. I rarely add all of the extra decorative pillows, but I do straighten it up more often than not.

[@MeganFoxUnlocked]

Yeah, Josh didn't realize what he was missing!

[@dianedavis8161]

Love your glasses on you and love you 😍

[@samanthawarmack]

I am 11 weeks pregnant and FEELING IT, and my house shows it too 🙈 This was encouraging because I’m going to need to remember what my new non-negotiables are going into this next season as a mama of 2! Thanks again sweet girl! ❤

[@MeganFoxUnlocked]

So true!! It changes over time!

[@kindnessmatters4068]

I'm little over 10 weeks 🙂 🩶

[@tiffanywheeler48]

I’m 11 weeks too! I have 3 permanent children and 3 foster children. I’m exhausted! 😴

[@laciefedewa9337]

I love the unhurried errands!!! I need to start this! Thank you for sharing.

[@rhodadueck2548]

I wait for your video each week. It comes during nap time of my 3 children

[@MeganFoxUnlocked]

Me too! That's why I keep it at the same time. So I have time to hang out with all of you!

[@wilmawagler5058]

I enjoyed this. I was always a bed maker but when my children were young I only had the 2 pillows on the bed and nothing extra. Then for awhile I wanted to be fancy and got a bunch of pillows and a throw. Now I’m back to my pillow, my husbands pillow our sheets and a nice quilt or comforter. It’s so much easier and looks neat no extra pillows flying all over the place, I make the bed as soon as I get up. Just a suggestion for those who are pressed for time. God bless you young moms it flies by fast.

[@ashleymarieeee]

I’m the exact same way with tidying in the morning. At night I can barely get my contacts out without falling asleep! In the morning the tidying seems so much lighter and easier to handle.

[@janaehazenberg698]

Thank you for the mom chat! Thank you for encouraging us to own our day and not let others tell us what our non negotiable’s should be! Appreciated.

[@courtneymellinger7540]

My husband is from Lancaster County and I’m from Chester County, we moved to Nebraska right after we got married and wow I miss how beautiful rural PA is!

[@mrs.a4564]

I love how you seek your kids during the day. I'm definitely going to start doing that more. Thank you for sharing 💛

[@Masonsept2011]

Loved that little bonus at the end. 😂😅 I am definitely the same way. I’d rather wake up and get things reset when my energy is recharged. It is wonderful when it happens before bed, but not a nonnegotiable for me.❤

[@Sarah-qi1se]

The piano music is beautiful! What a skill.

[@hanmadehome]

You aren’t alone! I am a early to bed and early to rise kinda gal. My kitchen often doesn’t get cleaned in the evening too. No judgement here!

[@Dana-mb1hd]

Hooray for Thursdays with Megan! I just moved into a new home so I’m excited to watch this! Thanks for always inspiring me Megan! Love your videos girl!💖🙏

[@Melissa.Bordelon84]

Just finding your channel. I am also a Christian mama of two kids. I love your videos. ❤

[@arlenevillanueva7585]

I have been watching Michelle's videos since 2020. She is just so inspiring and peaceful.

[@neliajohnson9023]

I’ve never put pressure on myself to have my dishes done & every little thing picked up when I go to bed either. I’m tired at the end of the day & would much rather do it in the morning as well. I do consider myself a night owl, but in the sense of staying awake & relaxing, winding down, not working right up until bedtime.

[@theproductivemommy8169]

Thank you so much for saying about not cleaning up haha! Most of the nights are such a chaos with doing homework, eating dinner and trying to put kids to sleep, and I am so tired that I just CANT come back to clean up after they are in beds! I don’t really like coming down in the morning to a messyish kitchen but it’s a lot more easier to manage it in the morning.

[@fireflyc1]

I love all the hard work and intentionally you put into being a wife and mother ❤️

[@sunflowermom51]

That's Oregon Dairy...I know that place! Love your videos and suggestions for a simple, wholesome lifestyle. Keep them coming.

[@kathiecrider]

This was a great video! I love how you include your children in so much - that’s such an important thing! ❤

[@juno2013]

What a lovely and inspirational video Megan. I love the relationship you have with your kiddos. The amazing memories you are creating for your family ❤️.

[@Jenna4236]

So glad I found your channel! Very encouraging! I also love Michelle Reed btw she just had her first baby

[@Starlight-yv8dq]

I’m glad you for adding the last part in at the very end 😀 (as a Mom of 3 and one on the way) I feel ya- at the end of the day I just don’t necessarily have the energy anymore to do the “end-day” pick up! I also have more energy in the morning and some days that’s the better way to go because we NEED our rest to take care of those babies and the house the next day it’s never ending - and doing what you need to do so you are rested and are able to better tackle the next day is way it needs to go sometimes…and that is 💯 ok! 🙃

[@kimberlystahl1746]

Love this. I do make my bed daily and some days I don't want to. But, I have made it my comfort place and when I walk into my bedroom at night it is so nice to walk into a calming, relaxing room. I keep the rest of the house picked up so for me, it just makes sense to have my bedroom pulled together as well. :) I have got to get into the habit of getting dressed and combing my hair on my days off instead of having "pajama day" LOL.

[@miguelinabnasr3719]

Megan, Thanks for providing this video! A list of non-negotiables is significant because they are a million reasons to miss doing something important during the day. Following a list organizes all tasks to become small-scale achievable goals that are vital to making the day progress well. Everyone in the world will have a different list for what that will be

[@jaynebahler9696]

I really loved this chatty video! Mornings are my best time also. Blessings to all ❤🙏

[@aftynwatkins4589]

I definitely wish I was 1/2 the momma you are ♥️ I know I’m a good mom but dang you set the bar high. So amazing

[@anagandara271]

I am the same way. I drag at nights and something that will take me 2 minutes in the morning could take me 15 at night. What I like to do is set a timer while my coffee is dripping for 15 minutes and I can pretty much pick up the whole house.

[@carrieschumacher4421]

When my children were small I did “10 minutes”. We all worked like crazy delivering each item to the room it belonged in. We would have a little break and then do another 10 minutes- I worked in the kitchen and each kid did their bedroom…….tidy house in 25 minutes.

[@marthak9360]

Thank you for this video Meghan! I love the idea of a chore party! I also do unhurried errands, but I bundle them into three things that are fairly close together (such as post office, grocery store and dry cleaners) - that way, I don’t feel like I need to leave the house daily if there are things to do at home and hopefully showing my children how to bundle things :) God’s blessings to you and yours! ☀️

[@julspurser9833]

One of my favorite videos! Priorities and knowing my own are so helpful in determining what to put my energy into each day. 😊 I like to tidy up at night, most nights... but I'm a night owl and it helps me de-stress. No worries, though!! 😂

[@charlotta5660]

I love the dotted top! And you look very good in those glasses. I don't think I have any daily non-negotiables, but I have a weekly one: my Thursday evening riding lessons. They've been a part of my life for about 10 years now.

[@peggymartin3209]

This was great Megan - I do have to say, however, I am #teammakebedinthemorning!!! Having said THAT, I am an old woman with grown children so my priorities are vastly different than yours. Enjoy your day!

[@goaway7163]

Thank you for the honesty with your daily devotional. It's so easy to watch KZbin and think we, on the other end fall short. May God grant you that quiet time more often.

[@SarahS-lf4pt]

Thanks for sharing your video! My kids are almost grown and if I could go back in time and give myself a piece of advice it would be to not be so hard on myself. I was always trying to do so many things I didn’t stop to enjoy their childhood enough.

[@kristendematte8861]

Hahah love this video! I’m a hardcore “make your bed!” I feel like everyone should- although, I don’t get dressed for the day as soon as I wake up😅 so there is some give and take I guess🌸

[@lizgilmore7314]

You are an amazing working Mum!

[@cynthiafisher9907]

Wow, doing one errand a day is a revelation! I never ever thought of that. I live about 5 miles out of town, so I always think I need to do several each trip and only do it once or twice a week to save on gas. But that is a brilliant idea to use it as an outing with the kids!

[@skirtedfancy]

Loved this and related to so many things! We’re “trying” to do 1000 hours outside too and my husband and I were laughing earlier about how bad we’ve done the past couple weeks because of the weather. The funny part is that we live in San Diego, California where bad weather is if the temp goes under 65 and/or it rains at all 🤣😭😂🤦🏻‍♀️.

[@skirtedfancy]

Also, I just found your channel recently and have been binging 😂. Love all your content and your sweet, honest spirit. ❤

[@mjlvnv]

I love your videos. I’m 61, but I can always learn new things from the younger ladies 😀

[@meredithgrigg7784]

So many great ideas! Seeking out my kids, unhurried tasks, chore parties. I am excited to give them a try! I have been following you for a while and love how relatable and down to earth you are. Thank you for being a light for Christ in this small area of the internet!

[@juanitahill4832]

Your life is full of variety, fun, learning and lots of smiles and love.

[@Barbara-pz8ky]

You’re such a good wife and momma Megan. I’m a grandma and I think I’ve always been a bed maker…my married kids…not so much.

[@LadiesofPurposeTV]

Megan I just love your channel❤. You are so real & a beautiful wife & mama!!!! I have 6 children & the memories made with them each day is such as gift. You are doing an amazing job mama!!!!! Blessings, Shannon from Gettysburg!!

[@dinky..]

I really enjoyed this video Megan! Chore Party!! (You made me laugh with "when I say jump, you say how high," 😄 I like to see glimpses of your humour) I'm the same as you!! I like to tidy up the house in tbe morning. A mindless, automatic task to do while I wake up fully. Glad you added that clip! Very often the narrative around this is "clean everything up today for a fresh day tomorrow" and if you don't do that, you're considered wrong or lazy or underachieving 🙈 So thank you! 💕

[@jessicapatchett6161]

I love what you do with lunches and dinners. My husband and I also have very different tastes, and I think you have a great solution for that.

[@kristaleisure7978]

Loved the video! I took away some new ideas to try in my own homemaking such as training the kids to look around and see what needs to be done (maybe I'll sound less bossy to them if they spot it themselves, lol). One thing that is absolutely non-negotiable for me is also husband approved meals. My husband works hard, and if I have chicken stir fry for him, he is starving in about 2 hours and eating the legs off the table. He won't complain about, but he will ask for extra dessert. I save my stir fry meals for my own lunch- a little treat to myself for getting my chores done!

[@hollyjollyjo]

Love this video Megan! And love the little message at the end. ❤

[@joyweidental1227]

Thanx Megan for not being perfect or for rather not being a robot I should say! Really well put ending to this video!! Congrats❣️

[@MeganFoxUnlocked]

Thanks for staying to the end!

[@debbyace7613]

I love your vlog Megan! You are real you don’t put on any heirs, keep them coming! 🙏🏻❤️

[@fireflyslingshots]

I really enjoyed this video. You break things down so they seem doable. I appreciate the practical tips!

[@annaholeman7968]

I also leave chores after the kids go to bed until the morning!❤️ Enjoy that time to wind down before bed and have some time to breathe.

[@debralawler-nt9si]

Teaching kiddos life skills is so important. You are a great mom and family enjoy your content very much

[@susannagiesey9657]

I have a habit tracker in my planner. I want to be more consistent tracking habits. This idea of choosing non-negotiables vs adding a bunch of new habits is great.

[@shaundabrook94]

This was probably my favourite video of yours. It was a bit convicting as well! I realize some of your non negotiable SHOULD be mine as a Christian mom. It definitely is a little harder getting out for fresh air here in Canada (lots of snow and cold days) but I should take advantage of the nice days! Thank you for this wonderful video!

[@caitlincunningham8354]

Girl! I just found your channel! I subscribed just because of the end...lol 😂 just kidding the whole video was great and very relatable for me. I used to live 35 minutes from town so all my errands were jam packed on Thursdays...we called it "town day" we also had bible study Thursday night so Thursdays were so long! We live in town now so I like the idea of getting out every day and taking our time with errands.

[@DanielleWoodstock]

New subscriber here 👋 I felt like you were speaking to my heart during this video ❤

[@ayah316]

I love the look with your glasses ! You look beautiful with a touch of teacher look 😍 great video and some of the non negotiables. I agree not everything is picture perfect at the end of the day. I am a night owl but I totally get it. The only non negotiable is the kitchen sink. It has to be empty and helps alot for morning coffee time

[@alisonbrandon9059]

We do easy breakfast during the week too and then do a “big breakfast” as our Sunday lunch. There is clean up involved, but it is a delicious quick filling lunch after church 😋

[@rosie52111]

Haha that’s me too 🙋🏻‍♀️ it’s slowly changing (as I declutter more) but most nights I’m exhausted after tucking in our 3 kiddos, than I’m ready for a quick shower and crawling into bed. However I DO want to change that slowly because I l o v e waking up to an organized home. ❤ thank you for sharing Megan!

[@ERICA850]

I'm going to try the slow burn fitness revolution! It's only 30 min once a week. You should look into it. The book is a quick read. As a mom it is so hard to work out everyday. Once a week is doable!

[@eydiegarcelon8889]

A great video, as always.... but I especially LOVED the one about unrushed errands! I did this when my kids were little, each outing, I tried to make a fun time. If we saw something fun on the drive into town, we'd stop and take it in (like watching deer in a field, or ducks in a pond) etc. Look at the things hanging on the walls in a shop, etc.

[@dianegomes7914]

Keeping it real, Megan. That’s why I love you and recommend you to people.

[@Dairyfreeginger]

I love the fertility awareness method! We successfully used it as a natural form of contraception until we wanted to have a sweet little baby ❤

[@Dairyfreeginger]

Anyone interested read “Taking charge of your fertility” by Toni

[@margaretashton2693]

Yes! What an amazing book. 😊

[@kathylezcano8793]

Love the topic it was great You are never boring every week you have something different and that's why I enjoy watching your video and VLOGS I really enjoy I can always Waiting for Thursday to come cause I know Megan Fox is Is coming on to watch Thank you always for sharing with us Megan always giving us good ideas inspiration you bring a lot of joy to my heart God-bless you and your family and have a great weekend❤

[@spunkycat6144]

I !ove that you do these videos. My mother was a stay at home mother. She meant well but she didn't dress or get pretty or have this community and it really took a toll on her years after year. She did eventually find community and she is drop dead gorgeous so she didn't need to do anything , but getting pretty clothes in back then probably wasn't a thing because she wasn't going anywhere but it impacted me because I didn't have a role model and I do have to get dressed up everyday and hit the road and have my food for the day all ready...role models are very important.

[@CharlottesWright]

I love these types of videos, I always compare myself to you, Megan, as a brand new mom at 22. I love your enthusiasm & youthful personality, and how ultra-productive you are! I like to see your ideals/lifestyle listed out so I can easily see how I can also implement into my own home.

[@nicoleschischke1194]

I loved this video. So many great habits. I love the bougie coffee. And that you said you rather clean in the morning than at nighttime - same! I also feel like getting dressed and putting make-up on gets me more excited for the day than making the bed, cause there is a high chance I will lay in it again at some point during the day :-D

[@grammytammy3535]

I enjoy your mom videos... Even though I'm past having littles at home. You do what works for you! 🌸👍