“It’s not always easy, but it’s absolutely worth it."
In the demanding landscape of modern motherhood, thriving can feel like the work of a cactus in the desert: resilient, resourceful, and intentional about where to draw energy. For Larissa, a seasoned business consultant and mother of two, finding balance isn’t about having it all—it’s about nurturing what matters most, even in the midst of a hectic environment.
In our recent conversation, Larissa shared how she’s cultivated a life that blends professional fulfillment with the deeply personal work of raising a family, all while staying rooted in her values.
The Morning Jumpstart
For Larissa, mornings are the foundation of her day. "I wake up at 5:30 a.m., not because I have to, but because I need that quiet time before the rest of the house wakes up," she shares. This time is sacred—a chance for a hot cup of coffee, journaling, and a few deep breaths. By 6:30 a.m., the household springs to life. "It’s chaos, but we’ve learned to embrace it as part of the rhythm of our family life."
Single-tasking
Larissa’s workday begins at 8:30 a.m. sharp. As a consultant, her schedule is packed with meetings, but she prioritizes pockets of focus time for critical tasks. "I’ve learned to set boundaries at work," she explains. "I’m not afraid to block out my calendar for school pickups or family events. It’s important to communicate those priorities with my team."
She’s also embraced a 'one thing at a time' philosophy. "Multitasking used to feel productive, but it left me drained. Now, I focus on doing one thing well before moving to the next. That shift has been a game-changer."
Midday Pauses
Between client calls and project deadlines, Larissa makes it a point to step away from her desk for a quick reset. Whether it’s a 10-minute walk, a few stretches, or just sitting quietly, these moments allow her to recharge. "I used to power through lunch, but now I treat it as a chance to nourish myself—mind and body."
After-School Connection
Afternoons are all about the kids. "When I pick them up from school, I make it a rule to put my phone away," she says. This uninterrupted time is dedicated to hearing about their day, helping with homework, or simply enjoying a snack together. "It’s a reminder to be present, even if just for a little while."
Evening Restoration
Larissa’s evenings are a blend of family bonding and personal wind-down time. "Dinner is non-negotiable—we eat together as a family, no matter how busy the day was." After the kids are in bed, Larissa carves out time for herself, often with a book or her favorite Netflix series. "It’s my way of refilling the tank for the next day."
Overcoming Guilt
When asked about the hardest part of being a working mom, Larissa doesn’t sugarcoat it. "The mom guilt is real," she admits. "I’ve had to work hard to silence that inner critic that says I’m not doing enough. Therapy and a supportive circle of mom friends have been invaluable in that journey."
Practical Balancing Act Ideas
Larissa’s advice for moms trying to find their balance? Start small. "You don’t need to overhaul your life overnight. Over time, small changes add up."
And above all, give yourself grace. "Some days will feel like a win, and others won’t. The important thing is to keep showing up for yourself and your family."
A Life Rooted in Values
As our conversation wrapped up, Larissa reflected on what keeps her grounded. "At the end of the day, it’s about living in alignment with my values. I want my kids to see that it’s possible to have a fulfilling career while prioritizing family and self-care. It’s not always easy, but it’s absolutely worth it."
For working moms like Larissa, balance isn’t a destination—it’s a journey. Through intentional choices and a commitment to her values, she’s creating a life that honors both her professional aspirations and her most important role: being a mom.
Larissa can be found at: Larissa Noto, JD, C-IAYT, ERYT-500, Founder and CEO of The Lovely Little Lotus @thelovelylittlelotus or thelovelylittlelotus.com working in the Lehigh Valley and tri-state area.
