Written by: Serena Fordham, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
Being a self-employed mum with children of any age (but particularly if they are young) can be very challenging at times! If you are a mum who works for yourself, then I am sure you can relate to your brain's conflict between spending time with your children and working on your business – it’s a constant tug-of-war.
I know I constantly feel guilty that one of these is suffering, as I haven't got enough time in the day to do everything! And as for household chores, I’ve found it’s easier to employ somebody, so now I have a cleaner (when pandemic restrictions allow)!
So, here are my top ten tips for juggling motherhood and self-employment:
1. Make lists and prioritize.
I like to have one list for both business and mum stuff to confuse myself by using separate ones. I also put everything in my diary, so nothing is missed!
2. Find amazing childcare.
My children are now school age, so it’s less of an issue during term time. When they were younger, I was lucky to have my parents and in-laws look after the children whenever I needed them. Although I did still feel guilty when leaving them for a business-related appointment!
3. Prepare.
Get bags, clothes, lunches, etc., ready the evening before. Mornings are the craziest for us!
4. Work when the kids sleep.
Schedule work time for when the kids are in bed. A few hours every evening can help clear your work to-do list, and a full working day will!
5. Outsource work and ask for help.
Take the opportunity to outsource some of the work you don’t need to do. I’ve been lucky to have some amazing ladies who help in my businesses, and they make me feel like all is not just on my shoulders. Plus, self-employment can be pretty lonely at times, so having a team to support me is lovely!
6. Find others in the same boat as you.
Connecting with other self-employed mums who are in the same boat as you can help. Try joining a networking support group such as HER Business Revolution for support.
7. Get a box of tricks up your sleeve.
When your children are at home, make sure you have a box of crafts or games that the kids can do themselves. This will keep them entertained if you have to make a business call or complete work when they are around! Even short bursts on a tablet or half an hour in front of CBeebies isn't going to do any harm either!
8. Schedule quality time with the family.
Time with your family is very important as your kids grow up so fast. Even a quick trip to the park or reading them a story makes all the difference!
9. Don't beat yourself up.
Don't worry if everything isn't done that day. No woman is superwoman (even though we like to think we are!). Just move stuff to next week's to-do list. It’s not the end of the world!
10. Make time for yourself.
All this juggling can leave you shattered, so make time for yourself. I like to get my nails/hair done, visit the spa, or have the occasional afternoon tea! Although a long soak in the bath (with no kids) is even a nice treat!
Feel free to visit my website & follow me on Facebook for more tips like this!
Serena Fordham, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine Serena is an expert Business Strategist, Growth/Development and Empowerment Mentor to Female Entrepreneurs, and a best-selling Author, Speaker, Entrepreneur, and successful multiple Business Owner. Her main passion is offering business strategies, support, and empowerment to ambitious and high vibe business women both locally and internationally – through HER Business Revolution. She is also known for her organizational skills by owning Glow Virtual Assistants and supporting women and child-related charities (also founding two charitable initiatives – Mums Empowerment Movement and SociaBubble).
