Starting a business can be an exciting and sometimes intimidating prospect, especially when you’re a mom. But more and more mothers are taking the plunge and pursuing their dreams of entrepreneurship. 11.6 million women in the U.S. own their own business—it’s actually the fastest growing segment of entrepreneurs, so if you’re a mom with dreams of being self-employed or starting your own business, you’re in good company.
As you navigate the world of being a business owner and juggling the demands of home and family, here are a few tips you’ll actually want to read.
Avoid analysis paralysis
Researching your market and making sure your product or service is something that your target market is willing to pay for are important steps in starting a successful business. But waiting for a perfect time to start a business is a lot like waiting for the perfect time to start a family. There’s always a reason to wait. Once you have a viable business plan establishing what you want to offer, who you want to offer it to, and how you want to do it, don’t be afraid to “just do it!” like Nike, who started with just $1,200 in the bank, by the way.
Take things off your plate
You probably have a vision and are tempted to do it all yourself, however, surrounding yourself with supportive people can be one of the biggest keys to success for your business – and perhaps not the people you’d think. Would a housekeeper or cleaning service help free up time for family and running your business? A virtual assistant who you can delegate tasks to so that you can focus on the most important parts of your business?
Take care of YOU
It sounds cliché, but it can’t be said enough—if you don’t take care of yourself, you cannot run a business or care for your family. If you’ve fallen out of an exercise routine, get back into it. Eat healthy meals, not just snacks, for more energy and to help build your immune system. Last, but certainly not least, make sure you’re getting enough sleep – probably the hardest self-care practices to employ when you are a mom. Naps yield success.
As a mother of three – two of which are twins – I was considered crazy for starting my own business, especially when I already had a successful career. But I saw a need, had a passion and I went for it. And I’m happy to say I did.