5 Tips to Running a Business as a Mom
I entered the world of entrepreneurship in November of 2021, just shy of 1 year before my daughter was born. I thought this would give me enough time to grow and establish my business before the baby arrived. Turns out, that was wishful thinking. I quickly realized starting and owning a business was an ongoing labor of love. So instead of trying to rush your business plan, or settle with just ‘okay’, here is how I make it work:
1. Be Patient
This can be tough when you want something so badly. I want to be an amazing Mom and wife, all while running a successful business. You are basically running two full time jobs at once, plus some. How is this possible?! You have to be patient with yourself. Good things take time.
2. Gather your Support System
I am fortunate to have an incredibly supportive husband, as well as a very loving and helpful family. During this process, you may need to lean on others you trust. Plus grandparents LOVE extra time with their grandkids!
3. Be Flexible
Your work day will NOT look like a standard 9-5, unless you have a babysitter. You will need to take advantage of naps and bed times. For me, I am able to wake up early and get at least 2 hours of work in before my daughter even wakes up. These are the most productive 2 hours of my day. For you, this may be at night when your baby goes down to sleep.
Your weekends may look a little different. I’m not advising you work through the weekend at all, but you might need to set your alarm a little earlier than you did in college. If you get up early and work just 2 hours before your baby wakes up on Saturday and/or Sunday, you will be surprised how much more you can get done.
4. Limit Distractions
Time is of the essence. We are all guilty of being on our phones and social media too much. These are toxic time suckers! I personally enjoy winding down at night on social media, but you need to be mindful of your time. The constant checking throughout the day, or the extended scrolling are very counteractive to your growth as a business owner and as a mom.
5. Enjoy Your Family Time
This is a big one. The leading reason that I wanted to start my own graphic design business was to be with my family more. We can get caught up in the business and the stresses of entrepreneurship that we lose sight of this. It is important to take those breaks and spend time with your loved ones so you don’t burn out. So go play outside with your kids, your work will still be there when you get back.
It is not always an easy journey, but boy is it a good one. I get to spend time with my daughter every single day and that is the most amazing gift I could ask for.
I’d love to know how you balance being a boss and a mom. Share your tips and tricks in the comments!
