There’s no handbook for navigating the chaos of daily life, especially when you’re a busy mom juggling three kids, household duties, work, and the myriad of things that demand your attention. Trust me, I’ve been there — the endless reminders of “Did I pay that bill?” or “What day is pajama day at school?” can feel utterly overwhelming. The truth is, amidst the sweetness of family life, we often find ourselves stumbling through the complexity of daily responsibilities. One misstep can feel monumental, especially during those weeks when everything seems to pile up at once.
That’s why I was all ears when social media personality Jen Hamilton, known for her engaging TikToks, put out a call for “unhinged automation” hacks. She wasn’t just looking for the mundane tips like “put your bills on autopay,” but for genuinely creative ways that people have streamlined their routines to make life just a bit easier. And boy, did the internet deliver. After scrolling through over 11,000 comments, I realized that we’re living in some sort of futuristic dream world.
For example, one person shared how their dishwasher sends a text to the kids when it’s finished, and if they don’t empty it right away, their Wi-Fi shuts off. Can you imagine? This blend of accountability and tech is both hilarious and genius. Others crafted unique reminders, such as a cat treat routine that intertwines pet care with a medication schedule, turning furry friends into the most determined little alarm clocks you could have.
And then there were those exceptional hacks that resonate with the dreamer in all of us, showing how automation can enhance our lives beyond just productivity. One response struck me particularly: a mom who turns dishwashing into a whimsical experience by dimming the kitchen lights and playing Celtic music on command, transforming a chore into a cozy, almost delightful occasion.
Imagine having holiday baking organized through a spreadsheet that takes away the stress of shopping. All she does is input the number of batches she needs, and voila — the grocery list is ready to go. That sounds like a game changer for holiday prep, not to mention a relief amidst the festive chaos.
Despite some hacks leaning towards high-tech solutions, others found low-tech ways to make life easier. One person shared how they bought 12 identical pairs of socks, eliminating the hassle of matching and making laundry a breeze. And a simple rubber band reminder system in the pantry for restocking items is a clever and straightforward strategy that anyone can implement.
It’s truly touching to see how people use automation to strengthen connections, as well. One dad subscribes to a flower delivery service, ensuring that the important people in his life get beautiful blooms not just on special occasions but also just because. It’s a beautiful way to stay connected.
Another individual shared how they’ve set calendar reminders to check in on friends after a loss — a perfect example of how technology can support emotional connections and kindness in a world where everyone is so busy.
The insights from these shared stories made me realize that there’s a treasure trove of ideas out there that I’ve yet to tap into. While I rely heavily on notes in my phone and dated calendar reminders — often overlooked — I can see how embracing the more “unhinged” aspects of automation could truly elevate my daily life.
So if you’re also finding life a bit chaotic, don’t hesitate to explore automation to create a smoother experience. Start small, identify what you often forget or what feels like a repetitive hassle, and think outside the box. From simplifying mundane chores to nurturing relationships, the possibilities are endless. It’s time to take those unhinged hacks and make them a part of our lives — after all, we deserve the ease they can bring!
Photo by Microsoft 365 on Unsplash
