Many of us have two goals in life: to have kids and to become business owners. But what happens when those two major life events coincide? Things get a little bit crazy… but in a good way. Today, Pregnant Pauses shares a few suggestions on how you might plan for both the baby and a new business at the same time.
Create Your Business Plan
Before you start any new business, you have to have a solid business plan. This is a document that will help you identify and outline your business goals, determine your target market, and help you best get to know the time and money that it will take to get up and running. Having your plan will keep you on track so that you can more easily shift between your role as manager and mum.
Remember to Find Time for Family
Creating a strategic approach to prioritize time with your other children can significantly reduce the pressure of balancing family dynamics, ensuring each child feels valued and connected. Establishing a routine, such as being present for bedtime rituals every night, fosters a consistent and comforting end to their day. Involving your children in simple tasks while you manage household chores, like cooking, not only aids in completing daily tasks but also promotes bonding and teaches responsibility. Moreover, planning unique experiences to enjoy together cultivates anticipation and excitement, enriching your family’s collective memory and strengthening relationships.
Pursue Your Education
If your business idea is computer-related, going back to school to earn an online degree can help you sharpen your skills and stay competitive. For example, by earning a computer science degree, you can deepen your knowledge in IT, programming, and computer science theory, giving you a strong foundation to grow your business. Earning an online degree makes it easier to balance learning with running your business on your schedule. If you want to enhance your expertise while pursuing your entrepreneurial dreams, you may consider this as a valuable step.
Look for Resources
As a female entrepreneur, you have access to a vast list of potential resources that can help you get started. In addition to mentorship programs and funding opportunities tailored specifically for women, there are numerous tools available to help you navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship. The US Chamber blog explains that there are many different networking opportunities, business acceleration programs, and even kid-friendly workspaces that can offer you support in those crucial early years. These resources can empower you to build a strong foundation for your business while maintaining a balanced personal life.
Take Care of Yourself
Whether you have already given birth or are preparing for the process, you’re likely physically exhausted. Nevermind the fact that you’re spending hours each day getting your new business off the ground. Although you want to take care of your customers, don’t neglect yourself. Prioritise your own health and well-being by getting enough sleep, eating the right foods, and slowing down when you need a break.
Set Realistic Goals and Expectations
Listen, we know that the sky’s the limit, but you have to set realistic goals for yourself as both a parent and an entrepreneur; otherwise, you’ll spend entirely too much time and energy chasing aspirations that always seem to be just out of reach. Psych Central offers many tips on setting expectations for yourself, including giving yourself time and grace and appreciating what you’ve already done.
Starting a business and having a baby or two huge events that can each have a major impact on your life in the long term. While most people choose to do these at different times, sometimes life happens and we find ourselves taking on what might feel like the impossible. But it’s not impossible. Today’s tips, from finding the right home to stay organized to learning how to invoice to simply taking care of yourself, can help you be the best at everything you do.
