Tips for the "Mom-preneur" During Transitional Times

As the school bells start to ring and summer fades into the crisp air of fall, mom entrepreneurs face a unique challenge: managing the shift from relaxed summer routines to a structured school schedule, all while running a business. It’s a juggling act that requires planning, flexibility, and a few savvy strategies. Here are some practical tips to help you navigate this transition and keep your entrepreneurial spirit sparked while supporting your children’s educational needs.

1. Re-work your Schedule and Establish your “back to school” Routine

With school is back in session, routines, most especially during this time, become crucial. A well-structured weekly schedule for both yourself and your kids allows everyone to stay organized and focused. Create a schedule that includes dedicated work blocks (usually while kids are in school), family time, and personal breaks. Having a clear plan for your week will help you manage your business efficiently while also meeting your kid’s needs.

Pro Tip: Use digital tools like calendar apps (my favorite is https://calendly.com to schedule business meetings) or project management software (like https://trello.com/) to map out your week. Sharing your calendar with your family can also help everyone stay on the same page.

2. Set Clear Boundaries

Balancing work and family life requires setting boundaries. Define specific work hours and communicate them to your family. Let your kids (and spouse/partner) know when you’re in “work mode” and establish boundaries to minimize interruptions. In fact, going into a different space as well - like an office or bedroom, with a closed door can also signal to your family that you are working. Similarly, be mindful of setting aside quality time for family activities and relaxation. And don't forget to build in time for household responsibilities too.

Pro Tip: Designate a dedicated workspace to reinforce the boundary between work and home life. This physical separation can help you stay focused during work hours and be present during family time.

3. Prioritize Tasks

With the school year underway, your time will be more constrained. Prioritize your tasks to focus on what’s most important. Use my Time Management Worksheet or a similar prioritization method to categorize tasks based on business habits, importance, and urgency. Other tasks that aren’t a priority can take a back seat or simply get dropped.

Pro Tip: Start each week with mapping out your “money-making” tasks as your top priorities. This will help keep your business moving forward and be able to “eat that frog”. (Order book here, if you haven’t heard of this expression before)

4. Involve Your Kids

Engage your children in the weekly schedule by involving them in simple household tasks or setting up a dedicated study area. Encouraging them to follow their own routines while you work can create a more harmonious environment and teach them valuable organizational skills.

Establish before and after-school checklists, especially when your kids get home from school. Whether it's having snacks prepared, going over homework assignments, or doing chores. Having a system will help this often chaotic part of the day go more smoothly.

Pro Tip: Create a chore chart and a homework schedule to keep your kids accountable and instill a sense of responsibility and accomplishment once they’ve completed all their chores and homework.

5. Leverage Support Networks

Don’t hesitate to lean on your support network, whether it’s family, friends, or professional contacts. Trying to do everything on your own is a recipe for burnout. Having an extra pair of hands, even if it's just for a few hours a week, can make a big difference in managing your entrepreneurial and family responsibilities. If possible, arrange for carpooling, shared childcare, or even occasional help from grandma and grandpa with household tasks. Building a network of support can ease the pressure and provide you with the time needed to focus on your business.

Pro Tip: Consider joining local or online mom entrepreneur groups. Networking with others in similar situations can offer both practical advice and emotional support. My network is https://www.womensnetworkingalliance.com/

Also, DELEGATE “home” support too, i.e. cooking, cleaning, going grocery shopping to maybe your partner or husband that “works” from home on Mondays and Fridays. (wink,wink)

6. Use Technology Wisely

Leverage technology to streamline your work processes and keep track of your responsibilities. I already mentioned above tools like Trello, Calendly, and I also like https://www.jotform.com/ for client intake forms; and I’m beginning to utilize a project management software like https://asana.com/ for “BIG” picture business plans. All of these tools can help you stay organized and make the most of your available time.

Pro Tip: Even prepare meal plans or other household chores with technology. You’d be surprised, I have a separate Google Calendar called “Meal Plans” and I list out what meals I want to prep and cook for the week (along with list of ingredients to buy in tasks for reminders). If you can even get your kids involved with meal prep too, the easier it can be for everyone. 

7. Practice Self-Care

Managing a business and a family can be very demanding, so it’s essential to prioritize self-care. I always tell my clients, "DO what fills YOUR gas tank first”. Ensure you’re getting enough rest, eating well, and taking time for activities that nourish and recharge you. A healthy and balanced lifestyle will enable you to handle the roller coaster ride of entrepreneurship more effectively.

Pro Tip: Schedule regular breaks throughout your work day and set aside time for activities you enjoy. Even if that short break is simply stepping outside to get some sun and breathing for 5-10 minutes a day. You will notice how something so small, can make a significant difference in your overall well-being and productivity.

In summary

As the school year begins, mom entrepreneurs can successfully balance their professional and personal lives with thoughtful planning, strategic adjustments, and by simply keeping an open mind (Remember, be adaptable too). Through the various tips above, you can embrace the transition with confidence, and know that both your entrepreneurial journey and your role as a mom are invaluable. The back-to-school transition can be hectic for everyone, but staying organized and developing routines will help make this shift easier.