Blog | Entrepreneurship

Being a Mom and Running a Business

How to Accomplish the Impossible

In the spirit of Mother’s Day, did you know that in 2014 about 70 percent of mothers in the U.S. worked full time?

I think everyone can attest that motherhood is already a full-time job. Let’s be real, moms are responsible for every aspect of their children’s well-being, 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. There are no vacation days or sick time, it’s a full-time responsibility.

But clearly, there are women (about 70% or more) that also hold full-time jobs. So how do they do it? What’s the secret?

Being a mom and a business owner myself, I tell you that it isn’t easy. But it is doable. Below are some of my tips and tricks to balancing both worlds.

Get Organized

This might sound like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how many moms are running around like a chicken with its head chopped off—you might even be one of them. To stay organized, I like to write everything down. Grab a calendar or a planner and make sure you keep track of all obligations, so you don’t neglect either of your roles. Choose a digital or physical planner; whichever you think you’ll consistently use. Keeping a log of things will keep you in control of your schedule, and hopefully eliminate any forgetfulness!

Switch your Hats

In order to prevent your job from taking over your personal life, or vice versa, make sure you know how to switch your hats. When you get home from work, switch back to mom mode. When you walk in the office, make sure you’re wearing your business professional hat. I found that it helps when you designate your time. Block out some time to spend with your children. This will help you find balance as a working mom, so that when you’re with your kids, you’ll be able to focus on being with them.

Don’t Judge Yourself

We compare ourselves to others all the time, it’s hard not to. But don’t do it! If you’re feeling like Mila Kunis’ character in Bad Moms who feels like she’s failing in every arena of her life and compares herself to Christina Applegate’s character—a mom who seems perfect and on top of everything— just know that you are okay! You may not be able to attend every concert recital or every business meeting, but as long as you’re giving it your all, that’s what matters.

Call a Timeout

Sometimes you need to take a break from both work and your family. It’s nothing to feel guilty about. Taking time for yourself will allow you to be more attentive and productive in both your roles. I sometimes get to take girl trips some entrepreneurial friends of mine and I love the time I get to spend with those friends and with myself. No one wants to get burned out. So if you find yourself at that breaking point and you need to recharge, unplug yourself and take some time to relax.

When you work full-time or own your own business, you will always have a lot on your plate. And it’s the same when you’re a mother.

Like I stated before, it’s important to strike a balance between work and being a mom. You will undoubtedly face challenges along the way. And there will be times when you are disappointed with your decisions. But remember, you have what it takes to be an amazing mother and an amazing business woman. You can be both!