Being a mum is a full time job. Looking after the kids, cleaning, planning and preparing meals, helping with homework, etc. If mums were paid for simply being mums, they would be the richest set of people in the world no doubt.
In recent years, as if these mum responsibilities are not difficult enough, more and more mums are embracing another role of being an entrepreneur.
If you place being a mumpreneur and a career, you would discover that it might require more effort being a career woman, while entrepreneursip gives you more flexibility and control over your schedule. You can earn while taking care of your family.
Here is how you can juggle being a mum and an entrepreneur:
1. Focus on your interests
A smart business idea mixed with something that you love and know is the best formula for a successful venture. It is easier to offer products or services that have provided solutions for you, based on your personal experience.
Many successful mumpreneurs have started a business selling baby-related items because they can relate to this business line since they too are mums.
Being a mumpreneur doesn’t necessarily mean you must sell baby items or products, you can consider other areas that you are passionate about.
2. Be realistic and don’t be overwhelmed
Some days there will be so much to do, to-do list that seem impossible to achieve in the time available. Don’t despair.
Your mind should be focused on what needs to be done, priorities, and you can clearly see what you’ve achieved at the end of the day.
3. Up your time management skills
Being a mumpreneur requires that you function at maximum efficiency, as you cannot afford wasted time and effort.
Having a structured daily schedule will help you keep track of all your tasks, whether relating to business or family, and to allot your time based on the importance of each one. Be realistic when planning your day because there are just some days when you cannot be fully productive, due to distractions.
It is advisable to set aside a free one hour per day. That one hour will help you catch up on your lag and allow you some breathing space.
4. Delegate
Trying to be perfect on your own will make things even messier.
If you have employees in your business, you can check what tasks can be delegated to them so you can focus on the more important functions.
As a mumpreneur, delegation shouldn’t be exclusive to your business. You also need help with home affairs. You can consider household chores that you can ask your husband or kids to help you out with. Maximize whatever assistance you can get from everyone around you.
5. Allow time for yourself
No matter how busy you are, do not forget to find time for yourself. Do not feel guilty about taking a break once in a while.
Having some time to recharge, refresh and feel more beautiful will make you better as a mum and an entrepreneur. Take time to have a relaxing bath, to go out or to be pampered. You work so hard so why not?!
6. Support system
Even Superwoman needs a team to help her, or else, she will burn out. Your family is your number one source of support. If you have a team working with you, that will also help you divide the stress in your business. This is related to point 4 above.
You might also want to connect with other mumpreneurs, inspire one another. Keep in touch with your friends who have their own kids to share your experiences and concerns with. You could join online groups or communities of mumpreneurs.
7. Stay focused
One of the hardest things for mumpreneurs is getting sidetracked by children, laundry, dishes, cooking, etc. Make a list each month of what you intend to get done. Then break the list down week by week, then day by day. If you stay focused, you can stay committed to getting things done.
8. Celebrate both small and big wins.
If you smashed all your set goals for the week, why not celebrate that during the weekend with your family.
Let them share in your joy and they will continue to reasons to keep supporting you in any way they can.
In conclusion, being a mum and running a business is one of the hardest things to do, forget about what you see in movies. Being a mumpreneur is not exactly fun and attractive but you can be successful at it when you put your mind to it.
