To All Mompreneurs Out There: How Can We Make Life Easier?
Being a mom has its challenges. But being a mom and running a business? That’s some next-level pressure. Truth be told, any woman would feel intimidated or exhausted (no matter how competent).
But mothers play an important role in the workforce, and when women come together, there is nothing we can’t do!
As a mompreneur (mom + entrepreneur), there’s value in exploring what others are doing that could help you with your everyday workload.
Here are a few ideas we’ve rounded up.
Strive for Work/Life Integration
Are you one of the thousands of mothers that started virtual work during the pandemic?
If you’re doing business from the same place you sleep at night, it can be difficult to separate work from regular life.
That’s why it’s essential to create barriers by having a designated “business zone” where you can work and focus. Of course, time is yours to manage however you wish and if you work better just going with the flow, then do that!
Comparing Yourself to Others Helps No One
People say that comparison is the thief of joy. Really, it’s not all bad. Keeping an eye on how other business owners balance their career and family is an opportunity to improve yourself—this is especially true when you’re new to the mompreneur game.
The comparisons you want to avoid are the ones that make you feel bad about yourself. This includes comparing how you approach work vs. how they approach work, because not everybody operates in the same way.
So, as you are hustling how only you can, don’t worry about your life or work looking different from those around you. Instead, take insights from others that make sense for you and could make a difference in your life.
Find Your People
Allies are essential in personal and professional spheres. Finding friends and colleagues to share in your journey and even lean on will bring you validation and camaraderie. If you don’t know where to start, organizations like the Alliance of Women Entrepreneurs exist to help you make those connections.
Asking for Help is Not a Sign of Weakness
Entrepreneur recommends clearly stating what you need. Although other busy moms are the most likely to be the ones to step in and help, they can only act on the information you share. Chances are, you will be able to return the favor and support them too.
Share the Load
Delegate, delegate, delegate! It might seem simple to say, but it can feel impossible for a woman who is used to doing it all herself. The truth is that by allowing both colleagues and your family to take part in your workload—be it a clean house or packaging shipments—they will also feel a part of your success. That is a good thing.
Self-Care = A Better You
According to a recent IPSOS survey, a third of women respondents say they spend 30 minutes or fewer a day on nurturing themselves. Yikes! Ladies, we can’t live like this.
Women burn out faster than men. And that’s not because women are weak; it is quite the opposite. Women, and in particular moms, try to pack so much into every moment of their lives that they are more likely to forget critical things like eating, sleeping, and even breathing deeply now and then. The trick is to find something that feels good to your heart and body and feels productive. (Or just take 40 minutes and get a bubble bath!)
The most important thing for you to know is that you can do this. Remember that you are showing your kiddos how to be strong, vulnerable, hard-working, and how to take time for yourself when you need it. They are watching you—let that inspire you to shine in both of your roles. #HappyMothersDay
