Navigating Motherhood and Entrepreneurship: Balancing Act Tips from a Seasoned Business Mom
For all the entrepreneurial moms out there, this one's for you!
As someone who embarked on the journey of entrepreneurship in 1999, six years before welcoming twins into the world, I understand the anxieties surrounding balancing business endeavors with motherhood. Today, as my twins turn 19, I'm here to impart some insights into mastering the delicate dance of nurturing both career and family.
A Common Concern
Striking a balance between professional aspirations and family commitments is a common concern, especially for female photographers. Will the business consume all my time? Will it detract from time with my children? Can I do both well?
I think this anxiety comes from the belief that one must sacrifice every ounce of available time to their business—a daunting (and unrealistic) prospect for parents.
But I’m here to tell you that it's absolutely possible to be an great parent while also building and growing a successful business. Let me share how I did it.
Tip #1: Remember, You Are the Boss. You Make the Rules
When you run your own business, you are the boss. As the boss, you dictate the rules. That means that you get to create a business model that aligns with your lifestyle and family needs. Embrace this freedom and craft your business to suit your unique circumstances!
For example, when my kids were little, I wanted to be home with them. So I saw clients on the weekends, freeing my weekdays up to be with my kids! As they got older, their needs shifted, and so I adjusted my work hours so that I was free when they were home.
Tip #2: Define Your Priorities
Reflect on what truly matters to you. For me, it was being at home with my twins during their formative years so creating a schedule that accommodated their needs became my top priority.
What are your priorities? Remember, you are the boss, and as the boss, you possess the power to shape and reshape it your work life as your circumstances evolve.
Tip #3: Establish Clear Boundaries
Communication is key—both with your family and clients.
Let your family know that your work is not merely a hobby but a legitimate profession deserving of respect. And let your client know that they’ll have access to you doing work hours only!
By delineating distinct boundaries between work and family time, you foster a healthier balance, ensuring undivided attention to each part of your life. Trust me, enforcing these boundaries is a must!
Tip #4: Implement Efficient Systems
Efficiency is the cornerstone of productivity. Implementing streamlined systems within your business—from marketing to post-production workflows—elevates efficiency and liberates precious time. With systems in place, you maximize productivity during work hours, allowing for more quality time with your loved ones.
Tip #5: Seek Support When Needed
You don’t have to navigate this journey alone. Photography, albeit usually a solo job, does not need to feel so isolating. Seek out communities, mentorship, and resources tailored to your needs. Investing in programs like my certification class equips you with the tools and support necessary to thrive both personally and professionally.
The takeaway
Remember this: you are the boss. Embrace the freedom this title affords, prioritize what matters most, and establish clear boundaries. With efficient systems and a support network by your side, balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship becomes not just manageable but immensely rewarding.
For more insights and resources, tune in to my podcast, “Unpopular Opinions.” Here's to flourishing in both motherhood and entrepreneurship—because with the right mindset and support, anything is possible.
