When I stepped into a new product marketing leadership role at Adobe after maternity leave, I kept hearing the same narrative from other tech moms: "I can't find time for myself anymore." It wasn't just about missing workout classes or lunch breaks—it was about the mental toll of feeling like we had to do everything perfectly, or not at all.
But here's what I've learned after 15+ years leading teams at companies like Google and Adobe: success isn't about perfection. It's about progress. And sometimes, that progress comes in smaller packages than we might expect.
Let me introduce you to a concept that transformed my approach: the MVP (Minimum Viable Person) mindset.
Why MVP Matters
Just like in product development where we launch with a minimal viable product to test and iterate, our self-care doesn't need to be perfect to be valuable. The MVP mindset is about making intentional, bite-sized choices that compound over time.
Here's the reality check that changed everything for me: Something is always better than nothing.
The MVP Framework in Action
Let's break this down with real examples:
Instead of: 60-minute yoga class → MVP Version: 10-minute stretching between meetings
Instead of: Meal prep Sunday → MVP Version: Ordering healthy delivery for tomorrow's lunch
Instead of: Hour-long focus blocks → MVP Version: 20-minute power sessions with noise-canceling headphones
One of my mentees, a senior PM at a growing startup, recently shared how this approach helped her reclaim her mornings. "I used to skip exercise entirely because I couldn't fit in a full workout. Now I do a 15-minute HIIT session while my coffee brews, and I feel more energized than ever."
Making It Work for You
Here's a simple exercise I use with my mentoring circle:
List your "perfect world" scenarios
Create MVP versions for each
Start with ONE thing tomorrow
Celebrate small wins
Build from there
The Hidden ROI
What I've noticed, both in my own journey and in the tech moms I mentor, is that these micro-choices create a powerful ripple effect. When we lower the barrier to entry for self-care, we:
Make better strategic decisions
Show up more present in meetings
Model sustainable success for our teams
Build resilience for bigger challenges
Your Turn
What's one area where you've been waiting for "perfect" conditions? How could you MVP it instead?
Drop a comment below with your MVP move for tomorrow. Let's build this playbook together.
Remember: You don't have to do it all. You just have to start somewhere.
Want more strategies for thriving while being present at home?
Starting January 20th, I'm launching a 4-week program designed specifically for ambitious working moms who are ready to reclaim their time and create sustainable balance. Through weekly live sessions, daily micro-exercises, and a supportive community, you'll learn how to:
Build a foundation based on your core values
Master time and energy management
Accelerate your career growth with clarity
Cultivate long-term balance that actually sticks
What's Included:
Weekly 45-minute live Zoom sessions (also available on-demand)
Daily 10-minute actionable exercises
Private Slack community for support and accountability
Comprehensive toolkits and frameworks
Exclusive access to the Propel Yourself Library
Don't wait to create the balanced life you deserve. Join several other women in leadership who have also signed up.
Questions? Reach out anytime! Looking forward to helping you propel yourself to new heights of success—both at work and at home.
Want more strategies for thriving in tech while being present at home? Check out the upcoming 30-day balance challenge.
Thanks for reading! Would love to hear what other topics you’d be interested in ❤️