EP 109: The Hidden Time Management Problem Sabotaging Work‑Life Balance for Moms in STEM

About this episode

In this episode, Anokhi Kapasi discusses a framework for defining 'done' to help moms in STEM achieve better work-life balance.

Time management for working moms in STEM shouldn't feel this hard. You get everything done—code compiles, data collected, manuscript revised—but at home? There's no clear finish line. Just that nagging feeling you could always do one more thing. In today's episode, I'm breaking down a simple 4-part framework that will help you define "done" intentionally so you can stop overworking and start experiencing real balance. This isn't about lowering your standards—it's about reallocating excellence to the places that truly need it. This is about reclaiming closure at the end of your day without guilt, and creating space for rest, presence with your kids, and pursuing your big ideas. Here's the truth: As a mom in STEM myself, I personally struggle with never feeling like I can move on from a task. I've also seen how defining "done" transforms everything for high-achieving moms who bring workplace perfectionism home. In this episode, you'll discover: Why your STEM training makes "done" so hard at home – The mismatch between objective work standards and subjective home tasks creates paralysis (3:15) The 4-part framework for defining "done" – Purpose, good-enough outcome, "done for now,"…

People in this episode

Host: Anokhi Kapasi

Topics covered

• time management
• work-life balance
• moms in STEM
• career planning
• defining done

Keywords

• time management
• work-life balance
• STEM
• moms
• defining done
• overworking
• closure
• excellence

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