I’m not so sure I fully identify as a “mom-preneur,” but I am a new mom and a business owner so I guess by proxy the shoe fits.
As a working mom, the delicate dance of running a business while caring for kiddos is both a challenge and a privilege. It’s also one that I grossly underestimated. The intertwining of these two worlds creates a unique tapestry of love, dedication, and at times, frustration.
It’s disappointing to say the least that in the U.S. we have nothing short of a childcare epidemic. The increased cost of daycare, unreliability of sitters or nannies, and minimal (if any) parental leave means that many entrepreneur parents are forced to balance stay-at-home parenting and remote work. So how do you hack both?
In this guide, we’ll explore the joys, sh*t shows, and triumphs of childcare and entrepreneurship for working moms, offering practical tips and heartfelt encouragement to help you thrive in both roles.
Embracing the Chaos: Running a Business with Kids
Running a business from home with kids in tow may seem like a recipe for chaos, but it’s also an opportunity to blend the worlds of work and family in a meaningful way. Embracing the unpredictability and learning to go with the flow is not an easy task but practice makes perfect, right? Flexibility is key when you’re balancing the demands of entrepreneurship with the joys of parenthood. Every morning I find it helpful to write down three must-dos, and trust me the bar is LOW for those. This ensures that during nap times or after bed I’m able to be as productive as possible without allowing incoming emails to distract me.
Creating a Supportive Environment
Childcare for entrepreneurs starts with creating a supportive environment for both you and your little ones—both physically and mentally. Consider structuring your day in segments for: kids, business, and personal. During each time frame, you’re as dedicated and focused as possible on that specific area. No phone while you’re playing with your baby, no house chores while you’re working. Of course there might be times they overlap when a nap is cut short or a call interrupts. For those moments, set up an alternative designated workspace where you can focus on your business while still keeping an eye on your kids. Baby gates for the win, honey! Create a routine that works for your family, with dedicated work hours and dedicated kid time that allow you to stay productive while ensuring your kids are well cared for.
Prioritizing Self-Care
As a working mom, it’s easy to put your own needs on the back burner. But remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup. Prioritizing self-care and making time for activities that nourish your body, mind, and soul, is necessary but requires a lot of effort. I’ve found that even a simple solo walk in the park, a quiet cup of tea before bed, or a monthly massage, can make a huge difference. Find what fills your cup and make it a non-negotiable part of your routine.
Leveraging Technology and Outsourcing
Technology can be a working mom’s best friend when it comes to balancing childcare and entrepreneurship. Embrace tools and apps that help you streamline your workflow, manage your schedule, and stay connected with your team and clients. I personally use the schedule send feature in GMail for timing my emails during business hours when I’m working late at night. And don’t be afraid to outsource tasks that don’t require your personal touch. Whether it’s hiring a virtual assistant to handle administrative tasks or using a meal delivery service to save time on cooking, outsourcing can free up valuable time and mental energy.
Embracing the Messy Middle
Remember, you don’t have to have it all figured out. Balancing childcare and entrepreneurship is a journey, not a destination. Embrace the messy middle, celebrate the small victories, and give yourself grace on the days when things don’t go as planned. You’re doing an incredible job, mama, and your kids are watching and learning from your example every step of the way.
Finding Joy in the Journey
Above all, find joy in the journey of balancing childcare and entrepreneurship. Yes, there will be challenges and sacrifices along the way, but there will also be moments of triumph, growth, and pure joy.
Cherish the precious moments with your kids, celebrate your successes in business, and know that you are capable of achieving greatness in both areas of your life. You’ve got this, honey. Keep shining bright and showing the world what it means to be a fearless entrepreneur and a loving parent.
