As a mom, why community matters

“When one tugs at a single thing in nature, he finds it attached to the rest of the world.” - John Muir

Ponder that for a minute. It’s a powerful visual that explains our innate need for connection. I absolutely believe we were made for connection and there are so many ways our brains and body reinforce this.

Numerous studies have shown that social relationships have a significant impact on our mental and physical well-being.

As social creatures we are wired to seek out connections and when we form these bonds, the brain releases a hormone called oxytocin, which promotes feelings of trust, bonding, and empathy. Whether you breastfed or bottle fed you felt this powerful hormone release and the effects of how it bonded you with your baby.

Research has also found that positive relationships can help to reduce stress and anxiety levels. When we feel connected to others, our brains produce lower levels of cortisol, our stress hormone.

When we have strong social support networks we are more resilient and better able to cope with challenging situations.

We know as mothers how important it is to have family and friends we can count on when we’re in the trenches. If you’ve ever had that stretch of sickness in the house that never ends, but then a friend drops off a homemade meal...goodness, that one small gift means the world to you.

We were made to do life together and in this age of technology we get easily distracted and frankly a bit lazy.

What’s one thing you can do this week to create connection with someone in your life?

Maybe send a friend a quick hello and share this encouragement to let them know you care about them. This journey of motherhood can feel lonely at times, so even the smallest of actions can make a big impact in someone else’s life.

Are you searching for your community? Say hello at info@melinakanecoaching.com and I would love to help you get more connected in your area.

Always rooting for you!

Melina

Melina is the founder of Melina Kane Coaching, a Professional Home Organizing Business in Texas (servicing Austin, Cedar Park, Round Rock, Georgetown, and Pflugerville). She loves creating effortless systems that support your everyday life. She’s an Ennegram 2 and recovering perfectionist whose never met a stranger, so come say Hi! on Instagram @cultivateyourlegacy.

What habits are you building?

Be the designer of your world, not merely the consumer of it. - James Clear

Have you ever wondered what's the difference between goals and habits? Don't they kind of feel like the same thing? By definition, goals are specific, measurable targets we aim to achieve, while habits are the daily actions and routines that support these goals.

To build lasting change, I believe there are three main areas to focus on when creating habits or rhythms in your life: Your Home, Your Head and Your Heart.

Your Home

Your home habits are connected to the function of your space and the foundation of your family. These are the small but mighty actions you take daily to live out your values.

Habit idea: Create a nightly routine to reset your kitchen so you wake up to a tidy space and ready to start your day.

Your Head

Your head habits are connected to the thoughts and stories you believe to be true. These are the actions you take to guard your thoughts and renew your mind

Habit idea: Try a daily or weekly brain dump to get all the mental clutter from your head down on paper. This blog post walks you through the process, step by step.

Your Heart

Your heart habits are connected to the emotional well-being of yourself and your relationships. These are the intentional actions to fill up your cup as well as deepen your connections with others.

Habit idea: Make weekly dates with your spouse (inside or outside the home) to continue growing your connection with each other.

As the heart of your home, you have already built so many foundational habits for yourself and your family. Take notice and celebrate this week all the seeds you've planted that are bearing fruit.

Seeking more support to build healthy habits in your home? Reach out and schedule a Complimentary 20 minute consultation with me. I’d love nothing more than to support you in your motherhood journey.

Always rooting for you!

Melina

Melina is the founder of Melina Kane Coaching, a Professional Home Organizing Business in Texas (servicing Austin, Cedar Park, Round Rock, Georgetown, and Pflugerville). She loves creating effortless systems that support your everyday life. She’s an Ennegram 2 and recovering perfectionist whose never met a stranger, so come say Hi! on Instagram @cultivateyourlegacy.

What are your things costing you?

Did you know the average home contains 300,000 items?

Isn't that bananas? Think about that for a minute. Think of the amount of energy it takes to keep track of, store, and tidy all that stuff. I'm exhausted just thinking about it.

I bring this up not to induce shame, but awareness.

I will be the first to raise my hand that I still struggle managing all the things in our home. As busy moms, sometimes all we have time and energy for is to feed, dress, and bathe our people. Amen?

So what are the benefits of decluttering?

More Space & Brain Cells

Clutter not only occupies physical space in our homes but also occupies mental space in our minds. By decluttering, you free up valuable physical and mental space, allowing for a more organized and serene living environment.

Increased Productivity

Clutter can be a significant hindrance to productivity. When our surroundings are cluttered, it becomes harder to find what we need, leading to wasted time searching for misplaced items. Decluttering helps you regain control, find things easily, and be more efficient in your daily tasks.

Stress Reduction

The presence of clutter can create a constant feeling of being overwhelmed and weighed down. Your body has an actual physical reaction to clutter and increases your cortisol levels. A clutter-free space promotes a sense of calm and relaxation, allowing you to breathe easier.

Simple strategies we use to declutter in our home:

1. Set a Timer: Start with short decluttering sessions to make it more manageable. Set a timer for 10-15 minutes and focus on one specific area. Use this time to declutter a drawer, sort through a pile of papers, or tackle a small closet. You'd be surprised how much you can get done in such a short amount of time.

2. Cause for Celebration: There are two easy-to-remember times you could choose to declutter: Birthdays and Christmas. These are usually celebrations that involve more things coming into your home than out. Take the opportunity to evaluate older toys, books, or clothes that your children no longer have interest in.

3. Seasonal Rhythms: Anytime you are changing seasonal wardrobes is an opportunity to take inventory of your family's clothes. Think about donating items that no longer fit or are out of style. Less clothes = Less laundry. Yes, please!

4. One Per Month: Create a list of the areas in your home that you want to declutter. Closets, Kitchen, Garage, Pantry, Toy Area, etc. Then simply assign one area to each month of the year and make a plan of attack.

You don't have to fill 50 trash bags of things to make progress. Start small. Choose one drawer or space to declutter. You'll be surprised how good it feels to create more physical and mental space for you and your family.

I created a new FREE resource, ​Clear The Clutter: Your Guide to a Peaceful Home​! If you haven't yet, go download it and I'd love to hear if it helps serve you.

If you are seeking more personalized support, reach out and schedule a Complimentary 20 minute consult HERE.

Always rooting for you!

Melina

Melina is the founder of Melina Kane Coaching, a Professional Home Organizing Business in Texas (servicing Austin, Cedar Park, Round Rock, Georgetown, and Pflugerville). She loves creating effortless systems that support your everyday life. She’s an Ennegram 2 and recovering perfectionist whose never met a stranger, so come say Hi! on Instagram @cultivateyourlegacy.

As a mom, what brings you joy?

Do you ever find yourself so consumed with the demands of motherhood that you've lost touch with your own passions and interests?

This is so easy to do, especially in those early years of motherhood.

Well it's time to reconnect with yourself and rediscover what brings you joy. I wanted to share some tips and ideas to help you discover new hobbies or rekindle old ones, allowing you to nurture your own growth and happiness.

Reflect on your past

Think back to your childhood and early adulthood. What activities did you enjoy? Did you have any hobbies or interests that brought you joy? Revisit those memories and consider how you can incorporate them into your life today. It could be painting, writing, dancing, gardening, or playing a musical instrument.

Be a beginner

Be open to trying new things! Take a leap outside your comfort zone and explore activities that intrigue you. Sign up for a cooking class, join a book club, try yoga or kickboxing, or learn a new language.

Prioritize “me” time

Carve out dedicated time for yourself each week to focus on your hobbies and interests. It may mean waking up a bit earlier, setting boundaries with your schedule, or seeking support from your partner or loved ones. Remember, nurturing your own passions will make you a happier and more fulfilled person, benefiting both you and your family.

Connect with others

Seek out communities or groups centered around your interests. By doing a quick online search I am confident you could find a few groups in your area. Feel a little intimidated? Maybe see if a friend could join you or be an accountability partner.

Involve your family

Find ways to incorporate your hobbies into family activities. For example, if you enjoy painting, organize a family art session. If you love cooking, involve your children in meal preparation. Not only does this allow you to pursue your interests, but it also creates bonding experiences and nurtures your children's own creativity.

As you navigate and cultivate your role as a mother, it’s just as important to invest time in nurturing your “inner child”. The more you invest in yourself, the more you can invest in your family.

Not sure where to start? Schedule a Complimentary 20 minute Consult with me and we can brainstorm some ideas of where to start. You deserve lightness and laughter in your day.

Always rooting for you!

Melina

Melina is the founder of Melina Kane Coaching, a Professional Home Organizing Business in Texas (servicing Austin, Cedar Park, Round Rock, Georgetown, and Pflugerville). She loves creating effortless systems that support your everyday life. She’s an Ennegram 2 and recovering perfectionist whose never met a stranger, so come say Hi! on Instagram @cultivateyourlegacy.

New Year, New Goals!

" A goal with no plan is just a wish." - Unknown

It's that time of year! New year, new goals!

Everyone loves a fresh start, the buzz and hope in the air is addictive, isn't it? But did you know 23% of people quit their New Year's Resolutions after the first week and 43% quit by the end of this month?

Whether you're a fan of New Year's Resolutions or not, one of the simplest systems I've found are SMART goals. This framework is designed to make your objectives clear, actionable, and most importantly attainable.

Get out a pen and paper and let's breakdown your SMART Goals:

Specific: Your goals should be well-defined and clear. Ask yourself what exactly you want to accomplish and why it's important.

Measurable: Establish criteria to measure progress towards your goal. How will you track your success?

Achievable: Ensure your goals are realistic and attainable within your capabilities and resources.

Relevant: Your goals should align with your values and long-term objectives. Are they meaningful to you?

Time-bound: Set a timeframe for achieving your goals. When do you aim to accomplish this?

One of the secrets to achieving a big goal, is to define small, short-term actions under your overarching goal. The more detailed you can get on your smaller actions, the more likely you will move the needle towards your big goal.

Not sure what goals to set for the year? Below are some reflection questions to help get your creative juices flowing.

1. What were the things that brought me joy this past year and how I can pull them forward into the coming year?

2. What parts of my life were draining? How can I support myself better in the new year?

3. What areas of my life are thriving? What areas of my life need some attention?

4. How do I want to feel at the end of this year? What do I hope to accomplish?

5. What values do I want to live out this year?

Goals are more fun with friends!

One of the things I love most about coaching is helping my clients align their values and priorities to live the best version of their life. I'd love to help create your most intentional year yet! Schedule your complimentary 20 minute consult today.

Always rooting for you!

Melina

Melina is the founder of Melina Kane Coaching, a Professional Home Organizing Business in Texas (servicing Austin, Cedar Park, Round Rock, Georgetown, and Pflugerville). She loves creating effortless systems that support your everyday life. She’s an Ennegram 2 and recovering perfectionist whose never met a stranger, so come say Hi! on Instagram @cultivateyourlegacy.

Reflecting on Your Year

“It’s not the experience that brings transformation, it’s our reflection upon our experience.” -Jan Johnson

As we step into a new year, it's the perfect time for reflection and celebration. Yet, amidst the busyness of our daily lives (and this season), finding moments for reflection can feel like a challenge.

It's tough to carve out time for ourselves when our days are filled to the brim. And it's not just making time for reflection, but also making the space to sift through our emotions as we reflect the past year.

Creating a habit of reflection doesn't have to be overwhelming.

One simple tip to kickstart this practice is dedicating just 5 minutes each day to jot down thoughts in a journal. This consistent act can gradually build a rhythm of reflection into your routine.

Emotionally, most people shy away from sitting with difficult memories or emotions.

One way to reframe this is to consider that acknowledging these feelings is a step towards healing. Your body naturally stores these emotions, so the kindest gift you can give yourself is the space and grace to process them.

Here are five questions to ponder and journal about:

1. What were the highlights of the past year?

2. What were the most significant challenges, and how did you overcome them?

3. What lessons did you learn about yourself?

4. What are you grateful for from the past year?

5. What hopes and aspirations do you hold for the year ahead?

If you'd like some more practice in reflection, you can download Jennie Allen's 2024 Dream Guide HERE.

Looking for some extra 1:1 support? Schedule a complimentary 30 minute consult and let’s design your most intentional year yet!

Always rooting for you!

Melina

Melina is the founder of Melina Kane Coaching, a Professional Home Organizing Business in Texas (servicing Austin, Cedar Park, Round Rock, Georgetown, and Pflugerville). She loves creating effortless systems that support your everyday life. She’s an Ennegram 2 and recovering perfectionist whose never met a stranger, so come say Hi! on Instagram @cultivateyourlegacy.

Why Did I Choose Life Coaching?

I'm thrilled to share a bit of my journey with you—why I decided to become a Life Coach. It was truly an intersection of events and experiences that led me here and I’m hoping my story is an encouragement to you.

The Beginning

Before life coaching entered the picture, I spent a four amazing years leading in a moms ministry at our local church. It was a transformative experience—guiding, encouraging, connecting, and pouring into the lives of fellow moms. Little did I know, these moments were laying the foundation for the next chapter.

My Natural Gifts

Life coaching is more than a profession; it's a calling that aligns with the core of who I am. It’s a calling that truly builds upon my natural gifts. For me, it's the ability to empathize, listen compassionately, serve others, continue to seek wisdom, connect deeply, and build communities that thrive. These gifts, it turns out, are amazing assets as a Life Coach.

My Impact

Choosing life coaching wasn't merely a career move; it was a conscious decision to align my personal purpose with a meaningful impact. I sought a vocation that went beyond the paycheck—a privilege that I don't take lightly. It's a choice to trade precious family time for something that truly matters. When I left the corporate world to stay home with my children, I made a promise that if I decided to return to work, it would need to be for something that I truly cared about.

The Ripple Effect

Here's the beautiful revelation: every conversation, every coaching session, every shared moment with a fellow mom has a ripple effect. While I may not witness the full extent of the impact, the knowledge that my guidance could contribute to something greater is both humbling and inspiring. Having been shaped by remarkable individuals in my own life, I now feel honored to walk alongside another mama on her unique journey.

Becoming a life coach is more than a career shift for me; it's a commitment to stand by you, my fellow moms, offering support, encouragement, and a guiding hand through the twists and turns of motherhood. We are building a powerful legacy, and we are stronger together.

Curious to learn more about Life Coaching? Schedule your Complimentary Consult, I’d love nothing more than to support you and cheer you on.

Always rooting for you!

Melina

Melina is the founder of Melina Kane Coaching, a Professional Home Organizing Business in Texas (servicing Austin, Cedar Park, Round Rock, Georgetown, and Pflugerville). She loves creating effortless systems that support your everyday life. She’s an Ennegram 2 and recovering perfectionist whose never met a stranger, so come say Hi! on Instagram @cultivateyourlegacy.

My Favorite Fall Recipes

As the leaves change colors and the air gets a bit crisper, there's one thing that always makes this season extra sweet – all the delicious, comforting food. Fall is the perfect time to cozy up in the kitchen and whip up some family-friendly meals that not only taste fantastic but also fill your home with irresistible aromas. In this blog post, I’ll share some of my favorite fall recipes that are sure to become staples in your family's rotation.

1. Baked Pumpkin Oatmeal - I love making this for breakfast and snacking on it all week. Add some maple syrup, a dollop of peanut butter and some crushed pecans and you’ve got a flavorful breakfast treat.

2. Pumpkin Bread - This loaf of bread is yummy and uses ingredients that you probably already have on hand, so you can whip this up any day. This pumpkin bread does not last long in our house! Especially when I add chocolate chips!

3. Healthy Hamburger Helper - I’m a big fan of Cassie Joy Garcia with Fed + Fit. She is a Texas girl and makes the most delicious (and versatile) food. This meal is a crowd pleaser with both adults and kids!

4. Instant Pot Beef Stew - When I think of cooler weather, I always think of stew. This recipe is ready within 30 minutes and is packed with flavors. It’s my go-to for busy nights.

5. Dark Chocolate Pecan Pie - To finish my list, I had to include a dessert dish. This one is an absolute favorite and I make it every year for Thanksgiving. Sally’s Baking Addiction never disappoints and this one is no exception. Add a dollop of vanilla ice cream and you’re in heaven!

Fall is such a wonderful time of year to embrace the flavors and warmth that come with the season. I hope these recipes bring comfort and warmth into your home this fall season.

Are you starting to feel a little overwhelmed by the upcoming holidays? Check out my “Holiday Hustle Guide”. It’s your holiday roadmap to plan a stress-free season, so you can ditch the overwhelm and embrace all the fun.

Always rooting for you!

Melina

Melina is the founder of Melina Kane Coaching, a Professional Home Organizing Business in Texas (servicing Austin, Cedar Park, Round Rock, Georgetown, and Pflugerville). She loves creating effortless systems that support your everyday life. She’s an Ennegram 2 and recovering perfectionist whose never met a stranger, so come say Hi! on Instagram @cultivateyourlegacy.

Family-friendly Fall Activities in Austin, TX

Fall is my favorite time of year. The temperatures are slowly starting to drop, the leaves are changing colors, and everything smells delicious. Here in Texas we’ve been hiding in our homes or at the pool all summer, so we fully embrace all things fall. Here are some of our local favorites to enjoy as a family this season.

Austin Symphony Children’s Concert

Every fall the Austin Symphony performs a fun Halloween-themed children’s concert. Children will be taken on a “magical journey” through family-favorite classics inspired by witches, sorcerers, and enchanted creatures. This is a great opportunity to expose children to the symphony and a new form of engaging entertainment.

Sweet Eats Fruit Farm Fall Festival

A beautiful family-owned farm located in Georgetown, TX featuring a corn maze, pumpkin patch, petting zoo, pony rides, apple cannons, food trucks and so much more. Your children will love Sweet Eats , so pack a picnic and plan to have fun all day long.

Pioneer Farms: Pumpkin Nights

If you’re looking to enjoy a spooky family-friendly night, Pumpkin Nights, is your event. The trail is littered with elaborate glow-in-the-dark Halloween-themed props. You feel totally immersed and there are tons of photo-ops to capture the fun. They even have a flame thrower performance at the end of the trail.

Thunderclouds Turkey Trot

Since 1991, Thunderclouds has been hosting Austin’s beloved Turkey Trot. It’s a family-friendly 5 mile run that benefits Caritas of Austin with over 20,000 participants. Hosted every year on Thanksgiving morning, traditionally families will run together, then head home to enjoy their Thanksgiving meal.

I’d love to know what are your family favorites in the area? Leave them in the comments below. Happy fall y’all!

Are you starting to feel a little overwhelmed by the upcoming holidays? Check out my “Holiday Hustle Guide”. It’s your holiday roadmap to plan a stress-free season, so you can ditch the overwhelm and embrace all the fun.

Always rooting for you!

Melina

Melina is the founder of Melina Kane Coaching, a Professional Home Organizing Business in Texas (servicing Austin, Cedar Park, Round Rock, Georgetown, and Pflugerville). She loves creating effortless systems that support your everyday life. She’s an Ennegram 2 and recovering perfectionist whose never met a stranger, so come say Hi! on Instagram @cultivateyourlegacy.

4 Clutter-free Fall Essentials

Hello Fall!

It's starting to finally feel like fall here in Texas. The temperatures are slowly dropping below 100 degrees and all the seasonal store decor is out on display. I thought I'd share a few ideas to soak up the season without cluttering your home or draining your wallet.

🍁 All the Pumpkin Spice 🍁

I know the Pumpkin Spice Latte is finally out, but you don't have to spend a lot of bucks to fill your home with the scents of fall. Here are some of my favorite fall recipes:

​Healthy Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal by The Real Food Dietitians

​Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins by Sally's Baking Addiction

​Pumpkin Spiced Creamer by Cassie Joy Garcia

🍁 Fall Movies 🍁

I am a such a sucker for all things Hallmark. I live for the elaborate wardrobes and corny scenes. So when I think of fall movies, it usually revolves around sappy love stories. Here's a short list of movies that always pair well with a warm fall treat and a cozy spot on the couch:

Rudy, Hocus Pocus, Little Women, Harry Potter, The Princess Bride, Remember the Titans, Twlight, and Pride and Prejudice.

🍁 Good Reads 🍁

The cooler weather always feels like the perfect time to curl up on the couch with a good book. There are so many amazing titles these days, pick a few favorites from your local library or bookstore and soak in the stories and this glorious weather.

🍁 Explore Nature 🍁

There is nothing more breathtaking than marveling at all the beautiful colors of this season. During this time of year, there are so many ways to get outside and enjoy nature. You could go for a family walk in the evenings, plan a camping trip, roast s'mores on the fire, go hiking, or grab a blanket and stargaze at night.

Hopefully, these ideas have inspired you to create some sweet memories this season, however y'all choose to enjoy it. Want a little extra help in planning your holidays? Check out my “Holiday Hustle Guide" to enjoy the season guilt-free!

Does your home need a refresh before the holiday seasons begin? Schedule your complimentary consultation today and lets create a calm haven for your family and friends to enjoy!

Always rooting for you!

Melina

Melina is the founder of Melina Kane Coaching, a Professional Home Organizing Business in Texas (servicing Austin, Cedar Park, Round Rock, Georgetown, and Pflugerville). She loves creating effortless systems that support your everyday life. She’s an Ennegram 2 and recovering perfectionist whose never met a stranger, so come say Hi! on Instagram @cultivateyourlegacy.

3 Reasons You Can’t Let Go of Clutter

Decluttering – it sounds like a simple task, right? Just sort through your stuff, decide what to keep and what to toss, and voilà, you've got a clean and organized home. But for many moms, especially those juggling work and family life, decluttering can be a daunting challenge. Why is that?

Well, we're about to delve into the three common reasons why it's so tough to declutter and, more importantly, how you can overcome these obstacles. So, reheat your cup of coffee and let's get started.

Fear of Loss: The Money Conudrum

One of the biggest roadblocks to decluttering is the fear of losing something valuable – not just in sentimental terms but also in dollars and cents. We’re often concerned about the money we've invested in our belongings, worried that decluttering will mean wasted cash and future re-purchases. It's a legitimate concern, but it doesn't have to paralyze you.

Practical Tip: Start small. Begin by decluttering items that have little financial value, like old magazines or expired pantry items. As you gain confidence in your decluttering abilities, tackle bigger challenges, and consider selling valuable items online or donating them to help alleviate that fear of financial loss.

Fear of Pain: Sentimental Attachments

Moms tend to lean towards the sentimental, and our homes often reflect our emotional connections. It can be incredibly difficult to part with gifts from loved ones or items that remind us of precious memories. The fear of hurting someone's feelings or feeling guilty about tossing these items can be overwhelming.

Practical Tip: Instead of saying goodbye to sentimental items altogether, consider repurposing them. Turn your children's old clothes into a quilt or create a memory box with small tokens from special occasions. This way, you preserve the sentiment without the clutter. And remember, your loved ones would want you to have a clutter-free, stress-free home.

Fear of Mistake: The 'What If' Syndrome

Have you ever held onto something because you might need it "someday" or because you're convinced you'll finally get around to fixing it? This is the fear of making a mistake – tossing something you may need in the future or realizing you should have repaired it when it's too late.

Practical Tip: Set a rule: If you haven't used it or repaired it in the 6 months, it's time to let go. For items with genuine value or utility, give yourself a deadline to use or fix them. If you don't meet the deadline, it's time to declutter. This approach helps you avoid the "what if" trap.

Learning to declutter takes time, intention and emotional fortitude. Most people don’t realize there are so many emotions wrapped up in their stuff, which can lead to indecision, procrastination, or quitting altogether. But remember, the pay off is big!

A less cluttered home translates to reduced stress, a calmer environment, and more time spent on things other than housework. Embrace the practical tips, start small, and take one step at a time. Everyone deserves a home that's welcoming and warm – a sanctuary for both you and your family.

If you’re looking for extra support to declutter your home schedule your Complimentary Consult today. Let’s create a personalized strategy to ease the overwhelm in your home.

Always rooting for you!

Melina

Melina is the founder of Melina Kane Coaching, a Professional Home Organizing Business in Texas (servicing Austin, Cedar Park, Round Rock, Georgetown, and Pflugerville). She loves creating effortless systems that support your everyday life. She’s an Ennegram 2 and recovering perfectionist whose never met a stranger, so come say Hi! on Instagram @cultivateyourlegacy.

How Can a Life Coach Help You?

Life can often feel like a whirlwind, especially for moms juggling the beautiful chaos of family, work, and personal aspirations. It's easy to get overwhelmed by the clutter that accumulates in our head, hearts, and homes. Enter a Life Coach. Here are some of the many ways a Life Coach can be invaluable to your overall well-being and health.

Defining the Life Coach

A life coach is not just your average advisor or consultant. They are like your personal cheerleader, confidant, and mentor all rolled into one. Their primary purpose is to help you identify and achieve your goals, while also supporting your overall well-being. Think of them as your trusted partner on the path to a happier, more organized life.

Accountability

One of the most powerful aspects of working with a life coach is the accountability they provide. They help you set clear and achievable goals, and they'll hold you to them. Having someone to answer to can make all the difference in staying committed and making progress, especially when life gets busy and overwhelming.

Goal Setting

Life coaches excel at helping you set meaningful and realistic goals. They work with you to identify your aspirations, whether it's a career change, personal growth, or finding more balance in your life. Through thoughtful planning and guidance, they help you create a roadmap to reach those goals step by step.

Perspective Shifts

Sometimes, all it takes is a fresh perspective to navigate life's challenges more effectively. Life coaches are skilled at helping you see situations from different angles, allowing you to break free from limiting beliefs or patterns that may be holding you back. They encourage you to explore new ways of thinking and approaching problems.

Emotional Support

As a mom, your emotional well-being is crucial, yet it often takes a back seat to the needs of your family. Life coaches are adept at providing emotional support and a safe space to express your feelings. They help you develop self-care routines that nurture your soul and teach you how to set healthy boundaries to protect your emotional health.

Transformation

Ultimately, a life coach is here to empower you to take charge of your life. They don't provide quick fixes; instead, they equip you with the tools and mindset to make lasting transformations. With their guidance, you'll discover your inner strength, resilience, and the incredible capacity you have for growth.

Remember, you don’t have to navigate all the twists and turns of life all on your own. Take advantage of all the resources that are available to you. One of those resources could be a Life Coach and hopefully now you’re a bit clearer on all the ways they can help you. Taking care of your mental and emotional health is one of the best gifts you can give yourself.

Interested in continuing the conversation? I offer Free 20 minute initial conversations for all new clients. Think of it as a virtual coffee date so we can get to know each other a little bit better and how best I can serve you. Schedule your free call HERE.

Always rooting for you!

Melina

Melina is the founder of Melina Kane Coaching, a Professional Home Organizing Business in Texas (servicing Austin, Cedar Park, Round Rock, Georgetown, and Pflugerville). She loves creating effortless systems that support your everyday life. She’s an Ennegram 2 and recovering perfectionist whose never met a stranger, so come say Hi! on Instagram @cultivateyourlegacy.

My 5 Go-To Family Dinner Recipes for Busy Nights

We are in the thick of the back-to-school season and things are getting busy in the Kane household. So in the spirit of keeping things easy, I wanted to share my 5 Favorite Go-To Dinner recipes that can be ready in 45 minutes or less and none of them require you to cook over a hot stove. As an extra bonus, almost all of these only require 1 to 2 dirty dishes. You’re welcome!

So regardless of your current busy season you can save time, energy, and feed your people well. Here are my family’s favorites!

Sausage & Veggie Sheet Pan by Mary’s Whole Life - I love a sheet pan recipe because it means after I have prepped the food, I can just pop it in the oven and walk away. We don’t tolerate spice well in our family, so we omit the hot sauce and red pepper flakes. Also, I typically use Applegate Chicken & Apple Sausage and it comes out delicious!

Pro Tip: Buy frozen potatoes to cut down on extra food prep.

Instant Pot Pork Carnitas by Isabel Eats - I get so many compliments on this recipe! It’s always a crowd pleaser. You can add your favorite toppings and I usually serve with black beans and cilantro rice.

Pro Tip: If you don’t have any orange juice on hand just add a little more chicken broth, it still comes out just as tasty.

Ground Beef Stir Fry by Fed & Fit - This is like melt in your mouth beef stir fry. The flavors are so delicious and the beef comes out so tender. It pairs great with rice and any of your favorite stir fry vegetables.

Pro Tip: There are few more steps with this one so double your meat and enjoy the leftovers.

Chicken Enchilada Casserole by Gimme Some Oven - This casserole is quick and customizable, you can toss in extra veggies, try it with verde sauce or make it vegetarian and sub in sweet potatoes. It’s also easy enough if you want to get your kiddos involved in the kitchen.

Pro Tip: Save extra time and use rotisserie chicken.

Pork Tenderloin by Fed & Fit - This pork tenderloin always comes out moist and delicious. Our favorite sauce is the balsamic vinegar and rosemary. So good! Add any of your favorite sides and you’ve got a delicious dinner.

Pro Tip: Don’t skip the marinade time, I usually shoot for a minimum of 2 hours.

I hope these recipes alleviate the stress of the dreaded “what’s for dinner” meal planning and save you time in the kitchen so you can spend more time with your family.

Have a family favorite? Share in the comments below. I’m always on the look out for new favorites!

Cheers to delicious dinners!

Want some extra support to make your evening routine feel less frantic? Schedule your Complimentary Consult, so you aren’t ending each day exhausted and frazzled.

Always rooting for you!

Melina

Melina is the founder of Melina Kane Coaching, a Professional Home Organizing Business in Texas (servicing Austin, Cedar Park, Round Rock, Georgetown, and Pflugerville). She loves creating effortless systems that support your everyday life. She’s an Ennegram 2 and recovering perfectionist whose never met a stranger, so come say Hi! on Instagram @cultivateyourlegacy.

What is a Life Minimalist?

“Minimalism is the intentional promotion of the things we most value and the removal of anything that distracts us from it” - Joshua Becker

Welcome to a world filled with hustle and bustle, where you often feel yourself drowning in a sea of obligations and clutter. But what if there was another way? A simpler way? Picture this: shedding the weight of unnecessary things and embracing a life centered around what truly matters to you. This is an invitation to release all the “shoulds'“ in your life and make room for something so much better.

Defining Life Minimalism

I’m curious what comes to mind when you think of minimalism? Is it bare walls and living with less than a 100 items in your home? Some people choose to live that way, while other minimalists embrace a more value-based approach to living. Life Minimalism isn't about depriving ourselves, it’s an intentional choice to declutter your life, both physically, mentally, and emotionally. It's about saying goodbye to the non-essentials that bog you down and opening your arms to what brings genuine happiness.

Discovering What Truly Matters

This my friend, is the fun part. It’s easy to get swept away by the pace of our days and all the things we jam into them. As a Life Minimalist, you get to hit pause, take a look at your life and reevaluate your priorities. What values do you hold dear? Are those reflected in your daily actions and choices? Are you focusing on the people and relationships that light up your life? Do you find time to pursue activities that make your heart happy? Embracing Life Minimalism means that your life is a reflection of what you hold dear and truly value.

The Art of Letting Go

Letting go may sound daunting, especially when your life is filled to the brim, but knowing what you hold dear makes it very simple. Think of it more as slowly and gently peeling away layers, one at a time. By thoughtfully evaluating your commitments, you can choose to prioritize what aligns with your heart and your core values. Trust me, saying "no" to things that don't resonate with your soul creates space for more meaningful activities and connections. So are there some things that you need to let go in this season?

Embracing the Power of Essentialism

Greg McKeown defines essentialism as “the way of living by design, not by default”. He goes on to say it’s important to “distinguish the vital few from the trivial many” in your life. So by focusing your time and energy on the things that are essential in your life, you will naturally feel less stressed and burdened. You’ll be able to shed the feeling of being pulled in a million directions and instead be more present, engaged, and connected to your life.

Hopefully, you now have a clearer picture of what is a Life Minimalist. It’s someone who centers their life around what they value. They aren’t afraid to let go of things that no longer serve them or aren’t aligned with what they hold dear. And they intrinsically understand the benefits of focusing their time and energy around what is essential. This lifestyle allows you to rediscover the simple joys of life, free from the weight of obligations and unnecessary distractions. So this is your invitation to embrace a life of warmth, simplicity, and fulfillment.

Unsure where to get started? Let’s chat about where you are today and where you want to be tomorrow. Schedule your complimentary consult, I’d love to support you on your journey ahead!

Always rooting for you!

Melina

Melina is the founder of Melina Kane Coaching, a Professional Home Organizing Business in Texas (servicing Austin, Cedar Park, Round Rock, Georgetown, and Pflugerville). She loves creating effortless systems that support your everyday life. She’s an Ennegram 2 and recovering perfectionist whose never met a stranger, so come say Hi! on Instagram @cultivateyourlegacy.

Your Best Brain Dump

So I learned this method of brain dumping your to-do list from Kendra Adachi of The Lazy Genius. If you don’t know her, you should. She’s witty, relatable, and so inspirational. So here is a simple, yet effective method to get all the things in your head onto paper and prioritize what matters most.

Grab a blank sheet of paper, a pen and list out these 4 categories: Now, Soon, Later, Never.

1. Category: Now - Think of all the things that truly need to get done right now. Meal planning, laundry (debatable), errands, anything that require immediate action within the next day or two.

2. Category: Soon - Next, write down all the things that need to be addressed within the next week or two. Buying a gift, finishing a work project, cleaning the house, all the tasks and activities that need get done sooner than later.

3. Category: Later - Which bring us to our next category. These are tasks or projects that could be completed in the next month or two. There are on the horizon, but not something that requires your attention for a little while longer.

4. Category: Never - So if any items made it to this section of your list, I have wonderful news! You can just cross them off your physical and mental list for good. These are things that really don’t matter to you or make a significant impact in your life.

As you can see this method isn’t complicated, but it’s effective. Within 10-15 minutes you will have extracted all the swirling thoughts in your brain and systematically put them in their place. The beauty is once these thoughts and tasks are on paper, you can move them around and tweak as necessary. Hopefully, this simple exercise will lower your stress levels, lighten your mental load, and prioritize what truly matters.

Inspired to do more? I help busy moms reduce their life clutter so they can focus on what matters most. Let’s chat! . I’d love to see how I can continue to support and encourage you.

Always rooting for you!

Melina

Melina is the founder of Melina Kane Coaching, a Professional Home Organizing Business in Texas (servicing Austin, Cedar Park, Round Rock, Georgetown, and Pflugerville). She loves creating effortless systems that support your everyday life. She’s an Ennegram 2 and recovering perfectionist whose never met a stranger, so come say Hi! on Instagram @cultivateyourlegacy.

6 Time Hacks for Busy Moms

Moms are real-life superheroes. You’re the keeper of the calendar, the healer of boo boos, the creator of fun, and the queen of negotiating. You’re the glue that holds it all together, but even superheroes need a little help sometimes. Here are 6 popular time hacks to help you manage your home more mindfully and efficiently.

Prep, Plan, and Prioritize

Take some time to create a daily or weekly schedule, I like to do this every Sunday. This will give you a birds-eye view of your week ahead so you can make adjustments and set realistic expectations. Jot down all the things you need to do - dinner menus, appointments, projects, chores, practices, write it all down. Lastly, don’t forget to schedule and prioritize rest and connection time.

Divide and Conquer

Now that your priorities are lined out, you can start looking for areas that need more support or can be delegated to other family members. Engage your partner, children, or if it’s an option consider hiring help for certain chores like cleaning or grocery shopping. There is a limited amount of time in each day, so sharing responsibilities not only lightens your load but also teaches your children valuable life skills. It’s a win-win!

Calm The Chaos

Mornings can often be chaotic, so save yourself time and stress by preparing as much as possible the night before. Lay out your outfits, pack school bags, and prepare breakfast and lunch ingredients. Believe me, this small investment of time the night before can make a world of difference in the morning madness.

Leverage Your Technology

We’re surrounded by technology, so you might as well use it to your advantage. Take your pick - Alexa, Amazon Prime, or Curbside Pick-up, plus all the other apps out there! You could use Calendar or Project Management apps (like Google or Asana) to set reminders for appointments, schedule playdates, and keep track of important events. Meal planning or Grocery apps (like PlateJoy or HEB) that suggest recipes and generate shopping lists, saving you precious time on meal preparations. Plus, most online stores offer free or expedited shipping these days when you need something in a pinch.

Multi-task Mindfully

While multitasking can be tempting, it's important to do so mindfully. Identify tasks that can be combined without compromising their quality. Listening to audiobooks or podcasts while doing household chores, finishing your grocery list while waiting in line, or catching up friend on your morning commute.

Set Healthy Boundaries

Being a mom often means juggling multiple commitments. Learning to set healthy boundaries and saying no when necessary is crucial. Be selective with your commitments and focus on what aligns with your priorities. Your needs and those of your family, always comes first.

I hope these gave you some inspiration to help manage your priorities. Remember, it’s important to tweak these to fit your needs and your season of motherhood. Hopefully, with a little planning, organization, and self-care, you can manage “all the things” without sacrificing what matters most to you and your family.

Want an easy way to plan your week? Grab my FREE Guide: Calm The Crazy - 5 Simple Steps to Simplify Your Day. It will make your daily and weekly planning a breeze!

Searching for more personalized support? Reach out and schedule your Complimentary Consult HERE.

Always rooting for you!

Melina

Melina is the founder of Melina Kane Coaching, a Professional Home Organizing Business in Texas (servicing Austin, Cedar Park, Round Rock, Georgetown, and Pflugerville). She loves creating effortless systems that support your everyday life. She’s an Ennegram 2 and recovering perfectionist whose never met a stranger, so come say Hi! on Instagram @cultivateyourlegacy.​

How to Name What Matters

We can learn a lot from nature. The seasons ebb and flow and there is always an undercurrent of rest and renewal. The leaves change, temperatures shift, flowers bloom, and we can witness the purpose of each season. In our own life, it’s important to pause and reflect so we can live with purpose, on purpose. We do this by naming what matters so we gain clarity, meaning and fulfillment in our current season of life. Here are some ways to determine what matters to you:

Embrace the Journey of Self-Discovery

The first step in naming what matters most is to ask yourself, what makes you feel alive? Motherhood often shifts our focus from ourselves to our children. Take some time reconnecting with yourself by journaling about your passions, values and dreams and how you can engage in them in your current season.

Identify Your Top Priorities

With a deeper understanding of yourself, you can identify your priorities. As a mom, your priorities may naturally revolve around your family but don’t exclude your own desires. Instead, reflect on what’s most important to both you and your family in this season. Is it building your career, creating a stronger family culture, supporting your health, or reconnecting with your spouse? Identifying your priorities allows you to align your actions with what matters most to you.

Name Your Core Values

Values act as guiding principles that shape our decisions and behaviors. Take some time to explore and articulate your core values related to your family, career, relationships, and health. Consider what virtues are most important to you—honesty, compassion, growth, authenticity, connection, etc. When you get clear on your values, you begin to make more purposeful decisions and invest your energy into things that truly matter.

Naming what matters most in your season of life is a powerful practice that helps you find purpose, fulfillment, and balance. Taking small steps to identify your passions, priorities, and values will help align your daily decisions, build a strong foundation for your family, and give you the confidence to live each day intentionally.

Do you feel like your days are out of alignment with your desires? Reach out! I help moms reduce their life clutter so they can focus on what truly matters. Schedule your Complimentary Consult, I’d love to support you in your motherhood journey.

Always rooting for you!

Melina

Melina is the founder of Melina Kane Coaching, a Professional Home Organizing Business in Texas (servicing Austin, Cedar Park, Round Rock, Georgetown, and Pflugerville). She loves creating effortless systems that support your everyday life. She’s an Ennegram 2 and recovering perfectionist whose never met a stranger, so come say Hi! on Instagram @cultivateyourlegacy.

How to Choose the Right Life Coach For You?

Motherhood is a beautiful journey filled with joys, challenges, and personal growth. As a mom, you may find yourself in need of guidance and support to navigate the complexities of balancing your roles and pursuing your dreams. A life coach can be an invaluable resource, helping you uncover your strengths, overcome obstacles, and thrive in all areas of life. I wanted to share 3 essential factors to consider when searching for a life coach.

Become Aware

The first step to finding the right Coach is to discern what your goals actually are. Don’t skip this step! This will help make it clear what kind of Coach you are looking for and if your needs align with your future Coach. So sit down and get brainstorm what areas of your life you want to work on and possible goals for you in this season.

Do Your Homework

As with any investment, it’s important to do your research. Spend a little bit of time upfront searching online or asking friends for referrals. It’s important to find a credible Coach that you can trust with your time and money. Does formal training matter to you? Is there a framework or style you like? Do you want your Coach to have similar life experiences? Decide what factors matter to you and don’t be afraid to shop around.

Have A Chat

One of the most crucial steps to finding your Coach is to have an actual conversation. A Coach could appear to be perfect for you, but you can’t know for certain until you spend a little time getting to know them. It’s so important that you energetically connect with your Coach. This is going to be someone that you share a lot with and you want to feel safe and seen. Most Coaches offer a discounted or free introductory session for new clients, so this a perfect opportunity to see how you might fit together.

In today’s digital age we have access to so many different kinds of coaches but it’s important to find one that resonates with you and your goals. Finding the right coach can truly life-changing. Hopefully, this has helped provide you with more clarity when you are searching for your best fit.

Are you shopping around for your Life Coach? I offer FREE 20 minute consultations to all new clients. Schedule your time HERE. I so look forward to meeting with you and seeing how best I can support you!

Always rooting for you!

Melina

Melina is the founder of Melina Kane Coaching, a Professional Home Organizing Business in Texas (servicing Austin, Cedar Park, Round Rock, Georgetown, and Pflugerville). She loves creating effortless systems that support your everyday life. She’s an Ennegram 2 and recovering perfectionist whose never met a stranger, so come say Hi! on Instagram @cultivateyourlegacy.​

7 Things Most People Don’t Know About Me

Today, I thought I’d pull back the curtain and give you a sneak peek into some hidden corners of my life. There may be a few things that surprise you and hopefully some that entertain you.

Traveled the World

As part of my education, my mom made a point to take me traveling and be exposed to different cultures and customs. She was raised in a small town, grew up very poor and was the first in her family to graduate from college. In her younger years she went out and explored the world outside her walls and knew she wanted to pass that gift to me. Last time I counted, I’ve been to 23 countries so far. I’m still in awe of this investment in exposing me to different cultures and people. I continue to have a deep appreciation of how others live and I’d love to continue this traveling tradition with my own children.

Imaginative Childhood

Growing up, my parents divorced when I was 3 years old. Thankfully, they remained friends and I was able to see my dad whenever he was in town, but it was always just me and my mom against the world. She worked full-time as a teacher at our local community college, but always made sure to invest time with me and involve me in different activities. There were definitely times I remember being a bit lonely but I think this cultivated my imagination and desire for close friendships. I recall coming up with lots of creative stories and ways to entertain myself.

Homeschool Mom

It was never in my plan to homeschool our children but during the pandemic we gave it a whirl. I had very low expectations in my abilities to successfully teach my children. To my own surprise, we all really enjoyed the flexibility and our ability to tailor our studies to their interests. I learned so much about my boy’s strengths, weaknesses and how best to support their different learning styles. Although homeschooling isn’t how we presently educate our children, it’s definitely an option we keep on the table.

Hawaiian/Tahitian Hula Dancer

When I was 12 years old, my mom and I visited Hawaii and I fell in love with the island and its culture. After our trip, my mom found a local Hula Troop that offered lessons and performed locally. For 6 years, I took weekly lessons and our troop also performed at retirement homes and local events in Austin. It was pretty fun and still makes for a good party trick.

True Austinite

I was born and raised in the beautiful city of Austin, TX. As the hoards of people have moved to Austin over the years, I’m considered a unicorn. It’s rare to find anyone who is originally from here and remembers the good ole days. I’ve witnessed an enormous amount of changes over the years, some good, some bad. It doesn’t feel as small or quirky these days but we still try to “Keep Austin Weird”.

Introvert at Heart

I would actually call myself a Social Introvert. I can “switch on” and be pretty extroverted when I want to be, especially when I’m with my people. Although, I love spending time with my friends and family it usually wears me out after a time. I always feel best when I can recharge with a solitary walk or a quiet corner to read.

Lucky 80’s Kid

Born in 1982, I got to enjoy and soak up all the amazing music of Madonna, New Kids On The Block and Paula Abdul. Plus, classic movies like Goonies, Sixteen Candles and Ghostbusters. Side ponytails, roller skating, and Lisa Frank were all the rage. I gotta say it was a pretty awesome childhood.

So that’s a little about me and my life! Comment on my recent Instagram post about which one surprised you the most. Can’t wait to connect with you!

Always rooting for you!

Melina

Melina is the founder of Melina Kane Coaching, a Professional Home Organizing Business in Texas (servicing Austin, Cedar Park, Round Rock, Georgetown, and Pflugerville). She loves creating effortless systems that support your everyday life. She’s an Ennegram 2 and recovering perfectionist whose never met a stranger, so come say Hi! on Instagram @cultivateyourlegacy.​

Create a Simple Wellness Routine

Wellness is a popular topic these days. There are thousands of serums, tools, and spa treatments promising you that elusive feeling of zen. As moms we have limited time, energy, and resources so it’s easy to succumb to all the hype. Now don’t get me wrong, I love a spa day but that’s not a luxury I can afford all the time.

Thankfully, wellness doesn’t have to be time-consuming or expensive. It can be as simple as daily habits that take 5 minutes or less. Even in the busiest of seasons, I know we all have at least 5 minutes to invest in our wellbeing.

Here are 6 simple practices to sprinkle into your day:

Get Outside

Spending a few minutes a day outside is a great way to connect with nature, enjoy some fresh air and soak in immune-boosting Vitamin D.

Movement

Engage in any physical activity that you enjoy, whether it's dancing, strength training or a simple walk around the block. Move in a way that makes you feel good and boosts your endorphins (those feel good chemicals).

Deep Breathing

To feel more calm and focused, take 5-10 deep breaths before you get out of bed in the morning and before you go to sleep at night.

Gratitude

Write down three things you are grateful for and you’ll naturally start to notice all the little blessings in your day.

Hydrate

Increase your energy and alertness in the morning by drinking one glass of water upon waking.

Nature’s Vitamins

Reach for at least one fruit and veggie a day to get a natural source of vitamins and minerals.

Remember, self-care isn’t selfish it’s essential. As you adopt these simple practices into your day, you’ll begin to notice a positive difference in your overall health and wellness.

Looking for personalized support in your current season? Reach out and schedule your Complimentary Consult with me.

Always rooting for you!

Melina

Melina is the founder of Melina Kane Coaching, a Professional Home Organizing Business in Texas (servicing Austin, Cedar Park, Round Rock, Georgetown, and Pflugerville). She loves creating effortless systems that support your everyday life. She’s an Ennegram 2 and recovering perfectionist whose never met a stranger, so come say Hi! on Instagram @cultivateyourlegacy.​