If you are a mompreneur there's one thing we know for sure, it's that balancing business dreams with the beautiful chaos of motherhood is no easy feat.
As we dive into this discussion on time management, let's cozy up and chat about techniques that resonate with our unique journey. From navigating unexpected meltdowns to celebrating small victories, let's explore how we can make the most of our time while keeping our sanity intact.
The Juggling Act is REAL:
Imagine this: You're in the kitchen, stirring a pot of soup while answering client emails and soothing a crying baby simultaneously. Sound familiar? I've been there and I am sure you have too! A mompreneur extraordinaire, who knows all about this juggling act firsthand. Like many of us, days are a whirlwind of love, laughter, and a to-do list longer than a CVS receipt. But fear not, because I've got some tricks up my sleeve when it comes to managing time like a boss, so you can do more than you ever thought possible!
A little back story is up until 2023 I was a business operations manager and overlooked the growth and development of 9 territories across 6 different states and managed teams across the US while growing my own worldwide company, Ideal Brand + Business Services. This was no easy feat especially when we take into account I was doing so during a Global Pandemic while my son was distance learning from home and I had a young 1-year-old toddler. From the outside looking it, you would think (and I heard often) "How do you do it all?" The few things I want to point out is there is NO difference between me and you. We have the same 24 hours in the day. But it is how I approach those 24 hours that may be different. I go into every day with a strategy and a plan. I do not hope that I will get things done.
As I review some techniques and strategies, I will point out that I am sure there is nothing you haven't heard before here... BUT I want you to keep an open mind and start to evaluate how you are currently running your family and business and ask yourself this: "Do I have harmony, or could I be doing something better?" If you are reading this, I am going to guess that there is room for improvement and you desire to have a whole lot more harmony. So let's get into it!
Techniques for Time Management:
1. Prioritize Like a Pro: Let's face it, mama – we can't do it all. That's why it's crucial to prioritize tasks like a ninja. Start your day by identifying the top three tasks that will move your business forward. But don't wait for the morning to roll around to write out your day, look at this before your week starts and then every night before you are done working or go to bed. The act of doing this will also hold you accountable, but will also mentally prepare you for the next day. I not only use my digital calendar to keep track of appointments or where I need to be (including taking my kids to their activities) but I also use a physical planner, so I can keep my days very organized. Paired together really makes a world of difference, when it comes to prioritizing and being realistic with my time. Trust me, it's a game-changer!
2. Embrace Time Blocking: Have you ever heard of time blocking? It's like giving your day a fancy makeover! Block off chunks of time for different activities – mornings for business, afternoons for playdates, and evenings for snuggles. It's like having your own personal planner! Let's be realistic, you are probably not working 8-hour days in your business especially not 5 days a week. So, committing a time block that you are going to get focused work done, will ensure you do not go soft on your business and let everything just go. I will only schedule my work sessions while I have my kids in school. This gives me 3 hours (when they both are there) 4 days a week. When they are out of school on breaks or I have a heavier load, I still commit to those same hours but it may look different since they are home. My goal each week is to not work at least one day when my husband is home (he does not work M-F, so I must be able to be flexible to get that quality time with him.) Becuase our schedules do not match up, it is important for us that I can be flexible and not just be dedicated to Saturdays/Sundays not working, as this does not work for our family dynamic. So I urge you to find what works for you and your family. 90% of the time, and stick to it!
3. Delegate Like a Queen: Repeat after me: I am not a one-woman show. It's okay to ask for help, mama! Consider outsourcing tasks like admin work or enlisting hubby for diaper duty. You'll thank me later! Just look at your time and how valuable it is. If it will cost you less to outsource you should be! Asking for help is not a weakness but a great strength! Especially when it comes to the household chores and the kids. It takes a village!
4. Flexibility Is Your BFF: Life with kids is like a rollercoaster ride – full of twists and turns you never saw coming. Embrace the chaos, roll with the punches, and remember, flexibility is your secret weapon.
The Mental Health Imperative:
Now, let's talk about the elephant in the room – mama's mental health. Between diaper blowouts and deadline crunches, it's easy to forget about self-care. But trust me, it's non-negotiable! After being diagnosed with 5 rare brain conditions in March 2023 I learned that not only my physical health really matters, but my mental health too. I learned that in the worst of times you will learn who is meant to be in your life, and let me tell you mama, the list is shorter than you think. Not everyone is meant to go the distance with you, and that is OK!!! So take a look at your personal situation right now and really decide, is the extra stress "worth it?" 9/10 times the answer will be no! Here are ways that I make sure to put my mental health at the top of the priority list;
1. Treat Yo' Self: Remember, mama, you can't pour from an empty cup. Take time for yourself – whether it's a bubble bath, a solo dance party, or indulging in your favorite guilty pleasure. This was really hard for me to grasp but mama you deserve it!
2. Lean on Your Tribe: We're all in this together, mama! Find your tribe – whether it's a local mom group or an online community like ours. Sharing the highs, lows, and hilarious mom moments makes the journey sweeter.
Setting Boundaries:
Ah, boundaries – the unsung hero of mompreneurship. It's time to reclaim your time, mama, and set boundaries like a boss!
1. Define Your Work Hours: Let your loved ones know when mama means business. Designate specific work hours and stick to them like glue. Remember, you're not just a mom – you're a mom boss! Yes, there will be those days when you need to be able to be flexible, but those days should not be the norm.
2. Practice the Art of Saying No: Repeat after me: "No" is a complete sentence. It's okay to decline non-essential commitments and protect your precious time like the mama warrior you are. You do not need to give a reason! This is something I am still working on myself and is much easier said than done. But boy does it feel good!!!
And there you have it, mama – a crash course in time management for the modern mompreneur. By mastering the art of prioritization, embracing flexibility, and prioritizing self-care, we can conquer the world, one sippy cup at a time. So here's to you, mama – may your coffee be strong, your kids be happy, and your dreams be limitless. You've got this!
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