This post is all about the hustle and bustle of being a working mom—yep, I’m talking about balancing spreadsheets and sippy cups. It’s a challenge, no doubt, but boy, is it rewarding.
Now, if you’re thinking, “I don’t have kids, so why should I read on?” Stick with me. A friend of mine, who’s currently child-free but contemplating future mini-mes, recently told me how insightful it was for her to think through the realities of being a working parent. So whether you’re already juggling conference calls with carpools, or you’re pondering what that would look like down the road, this blog is your go-to guide.
Let’s dig in! And hey, if you’re vibing with this topic, be sure to also check out episode 599 of The Chalene Show for even more insights. Keep reading, you won’t want to miss this!
The Working Mom’s Guide to Navigating Parental Advice
Let’s get something straight: Your journey is yours, and yours alone. I’ve got two grown kids, and let me tell ya, the parenting books haven’t stopped coming in the mail. Right now, I’m reading “How to Be a Better Grown Up” (a must-read, by the way), and still finding pearls of wisdom. But I’ve also had my fair share of “why didn’t anyone tell me that?” moments. So here’s the deal—I’m going to share what’s worked for me, but don’t sweat it if my life hacks don’t fit your puzzle. Mom guilt is so 2020, right?
The advice buffet is plentiful, but guess what? You’re the head chef of your own life. Circumstances, choices, and even the amount of help you’ve got on hand—it all varies. Maybe you’re doing the single parent gig, or perhaps your partner is more hands-off than a hot potato. Either way, my nuggets of wisdom are just that—take ’em or leave ’em. In the end, it’s about doing the best you can in your unique situation. So, keep your eyes on your own paper, and take what serves you from today’s chat.
Want more tips for navigating the working mom life? Keep reading!
Be Mindful of the Mentor You Follow
Let’s start by setting the stage: as a working mom juggling both family and a booming business, you’re already a rockstar. But when you decide to follow someone’s advice, it’s crucial to know what kind of rockstar *they* are. If your mentor doesn’t prioritize their kids the way you do, you might get business advice that clashes with your family goals. This doesn’t mean the mentor is wrong, but their blueprint may not align with the dream home you’re building for your family. So, heed this tip: Be discerning about whose advice you soak up, because you’re going to end up mirroring their values, whether you realize it or not.
Invest Equally in Parenting and Professional Skills
We’ll shell out big bucks to attend business workshops, read up on the latest industry trends, and hone our entrepreneurial skills. But when it comes to parenting, we often wing it. Here’s the deal: treat your role as a parent like you would a business. Invest in books, listen to parenting podcasts, attend workshops—whatever it takes to become the CEO of Your Family, Inc. It’s not just about being at the top of your business game; it’s about achieving that same excellence at home. So next time you’re scrolling through business course options, maybe toss a parenting book in your cart too.
The “Kids as an Excuse” Myth for the Working Mom
Oh, the temptation to say, “I can’t continue my business because I have kids now” is a narrative we’ve all flirted with. The reality? You can excel in both. It’s all about discipline, and if you’ve got the resolve, you can “have it all.” But it’s on you to make it happen. Don’t blame the kiddos for business decisions or lack of progress. If anything, let them be your motivators, not your scapegoats.
Put Your Family Commitments in Writing
There’s something powerful about putting pen to paper. Writing down your commitments to your family acts like a set of traffic lights for incoming opportunities. An amazing business venture comes along? Refer to your written commitment. If it runs a red light against your family priorities, then it’s easier to say no without getting caught in the “just this once” trap.
Never Let Your Child Feel Like a Business Backburner
There’s nothing more deflating for a child than to feel like they’re second fiddle to your career. Trust me; they won’t forget it. Be vigilant in setting your boundaries so that your kids don’t feel like they are the inconvenience or the Plan B in your life. Your business might get you accolades, but it’s the legacy you leave with your family that really counts.
The Balancing Act of the Mompreneur
There are as many ways to be a mompreneur as there are to parent. Some outsource child-raising to focus on the business, while others outsource business tasks to spend more time with the kids. Both are valid, but know which camp you’re in and choose your mentors accordingly.
Don’t Fall into the Comparison Trap
Comparing yourself to another working mom with different circumstances is like comparing apples and oranges—it just doesn’t make sense. Keep your eyes on your own journey, because every family, every business, and every mompreneur’s life is unique.
The Reality Check: Parenting and Business is Hard
Anyone who says managing both a business and a family is easy might be living in a fantasy world—or they have a ton of help. Neither scenario is wrong, but be prepared for the hard truth: this path is not for the faint of heart. As a working mom, you’re already wearing multiple hats. Just remember, while it’s challenging, the rewards on both fronts make it worth the juggling act.
So there you have it—my two cents on balancing the mompreneur life, learned from my own wins and oops moments.
And mama, let me tell you—give yourself a boatload of grace. This journey of being a working mom and killing it in business is not for the faint of heart. It’s a wild ride, and yeah, some days will feel like you’re stuck in the mud. But here’s the deal: you’ve got the rest of your life to soar in your career.
Today, if all you did was make your kids feel loved and secure, consider that a big win. Your sanity and family come first, and that’s the real measure of success.
And hey, if you’re wrestling with the constant push and pull of work-life balance, you won’t want to miss episode #599 where we deep dive into finding your equilibrium without losing your mind or your business.
Remember, at the end of the day, you’re in the driver’s seat of your life. Make it a ride to remember.
