Balancing Motherhood and Running a Small Business

Finding a balance between motherhood and running a small business can sometimes feel impossible.

I just became a mother in September, and have been struggling with this balance for a while now.

My business is my passion and something I have worked on for many years. I sell my artwork online and also run my blog. This turned into my full-time job in 2022 after I left my 9-5.

While I’m not able to work as much as I’d like, it’s hard and it feels like I’ve lost myself. But I love being a mother as it’s such a fun and fulfilling role. I wish I could work all day and play with my baby 24/7.

This got me thinking about ways I could balance motherhood and my business while not stressing myself out. I was working late nights because I couldn’t work as much during the day and it was really taking a toll on me.

But I quickly realized it’s all about balance and my days won’t look like they used to, and that’s okay. I no longer could work 8 hours interrupted in my art studio at any given time.

In this post, I review ways to help balance motherhood and running a small business.

Balancing Motherhood & A Small Business

Some ideas on how to start balancing the roles of entrepreneurship and motherhood.

Set Aside Time

Try setting time blocks for work and family. When you’re in family time, don’t look at emails or think about what’s next on your to-do list for your small business. Creating clear boundaries helps establish a healthy relationship between work-life and mom life.

I’ve stopped trying to get a bunch done during the day and have time set aside for me when my baby takes naps and goes to bed. It’s not as much time as I used to get before, but it’s my time to focus and work, and it gives me time to be present with my family other times during the day.

Prioritize Tasks

With limited time available, it’s essential to prioritize tasks effectively. Make a to-do list from most important to least important. Tackle the most important tasks when you have time.

Outsource If Possible

I do not outsource anything in my business currently, but if you are able, try to outsource some of your work. Doing this will give you more family time and freedom.

This can also be related to childcare, such as having a family member come over a day or 2 a week to give you time to work.

Embrace Flexibility (You Have To)

Flexibility is key when balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship. Accept that there will be unexpected challenges and disruptions along the way, and be prepared to adapt your plans accordingly.

As a very schedule-orientated person, becoming a mother has humbled me. Every day is different (think short naps, long naps, etc!) so you have to be flexible.

Set Realistic Expectations

Nobody is perfect, and don’t expect to achieve everything on your to-do list, because that is not realistic. Set small goals and celebrate the small wins.

Communicate Openly

Open communication is essential. Be clear to your clients and customers that you are a new mother. Say no if you have to and be clear to family members or friends when you’re in your working time.

Rest When You Need It

Some nights I’m up working so late that I’m completely burned out and miserable the next day. I’ve realized it’s okay to listen to my body and rest. While work can easily pile up, don’t forget to have slow days and rest when you need it. We perform best when we take care of ourselves.

Motherhood & Entreupernership

Balancing motherhood and running a small business is a challenging yet incredibly rewarding journey. Boy am I tired, but I wouldn’t have it any other way!

I’m no expert on this and some days I am very burnt out. Slowly I am crafting a routine that works.

Do you have any tips on balancing being a mom and running a small business? Let us know in the comments below!

Thanks for reading!

-Amanda