My intention when I started my business was to have more freedom and flexibility and not have to work a 9-to-5 J.O.B or pay a nanny (at the Manhattan rate, which was one-third my salary!) I miss out on my son’s growth (the math just doesn’t add up ??!)). With this in mind, I created a business that fits my lifestyle and not vice versa.
As a mother of two children (3 and 3 months), it is gratifying to know that my business balances my need to provide for others with my own needs. I also have to make time to care for myself. I work 20-25 hours a week and don’t get to work until I have done my morning yoga/workout.
It is my passion to spread the message that it is possible. If you know how to use these levers to make your life easier, you will be more productive and efficient in managing your time. These are some of the most valuable tips I have found for coaching moms who want to be more effective, efficient, and present for their families.
It’s all about the “happening.”
Delegate and outsource. You can outsource or delegate for less than $20 an hour. Hire help only if you are actually using their time for income-generating activities. This will minimize guilt.
Self-care: What can you do to feel great without sacrificing your day? What can you do at your home? You can make a list and use it whenever you feel like giving yourself a lift.
A “minimally acceptable” list (e.g., You can set a minimum acceptable list (e.g., food and nutrition, housekeeping, time with your child) but don’t let it define you.
Your spouse should be willing to help you. You will need their support and positive energy.
Time Allocation
What are your hours available to work for your company? You can be realistic and plan your tasks, setting expectations accordingly. You won’t feel guilty if you don’t meet certain expectations. But you will be less stressed and will be more relaxed because you won’t have to meet impossible deadlines (which often coincide with the sick days of your child).
Prioritize – What moves the needle most? Make them your first priority when you get up in the morning. What is the low-hanging fruit? These are great for when you’re short on time and are looking for something to do.
You can create “a plan without a plan” and allow for as much uncertainty as possible. Buffer your schedule.
Batch activities that require “in-person” and “real-time presence” can be done in 1-2 days. If those times depend on a nanny being present (she can be late or she can call in sick) and kids being in school (kids could get sick), it is essential to have a backup plan, such as a. You should have a backup plan or support system that can provide last-minute childcare. For example, local college students may be able to babysit. Or your spouse can work remotely.
Work from Home
You can set up WiFi and a laptop, and you can “half-ass parent” every once in a while. Sometimes, your child just needs you to be there for him/her while he/she does their thing… so that you can check your email.
Do not do the housework when you aren’t with the children. If you’re alone, spend as much time as you can work on your business.
You need to define your “business hours” so that you aren’t tempted to do non-business chores in that time slot. It does not necessarily mean you are available for all domestic tasks when you’re at home.
Efficiency
Don’t reinvent the wheel; invest in programs that will save time and keep your hands from spinning the reels.
Automate, create a system, a weekly schedule, or automate – whatever works best for you, lather, rinse, and repeat.
Write ahead and batch write time. You can schedule your content so that you don’t waste time writing content every day. (e.g., Hootsuite. Facebook Schedule Post, WordPress Schedule Publishing.
Mindset
Let go of control and let the flow take over.
You may not be able to apply what you have learned about business building to your particular situation. e.g., We may not have the time to attend in-person networking groups as often, but we do have more time at our homes to create networks using the internet. Take control of your situation and do what is best for you.
Good enough is good enough!
Instead of one extensive program, create a series of “minimally viable” products. Eat the elephant one at a time.
Do not fall for the comparison trap. Don’t compare yourself to what others have achieved. It’s possible that they work 60 hours per week and you only work 15 hours per week.
Ask for help from your peers and allow each other not to be perfect.
Business Model
You can operate your business virtually all the time.
Find your purpose and target market. Marketing will be easier if you are more focused. You’ll also find it easier to market your products and services with greater ease. Effectiveness = Priority list + inspired actions
Make the most of the internet’s power – ensure your website works well for you and create a list with whom you communicate regularly.
Affiliate programs can be used to promote your products or services to others.
To reduce the need to be present in “real-time,” develop programs and products that can be delivered digitally.
Networking is a double-edged sword. e.g., Preschool, mommy-and-me classes… have the opportunity to meet people, give discovery sessions, or hold workshops at these venues.