Image by Omar Medina from Pixabay

By Lizzie Weakley

Running a small business is hard enough under the best circumstances, but when you factor in the added challenges of motherhood, it can feel impossible. As a new mom, you are likely dealing with sleep deprivation, hormones, and the stress of caring for a new human being. On top of all of that, you have a business to run! It’s enough to make anyone feel like they’re about to lose their mind. But never fear—it is possible to successfully run a small business as a new mom. Here are some tips on how to make it work.

Give yourself some grace

First and foremost, cut yourself some slack. You are not going to be able to do everything perfectly all the time. Accept that there will be times when your business has to take a backseat to your parental responsibilities. The key is to find a balance that works for you and your family.

Set realistic goals and expectations

It’s important to be realistic about what you can accomplish as a new mom. You cannot do everything by yourself—you will need to ask for help. Set achievable goals for both your business and your parenting journey and don’t beat yourself up if you don’t meet them all perfectly.

Create a support system

Find other women who are in the same boat as you—business-owner moms who understand exactly what you’re going through. This can be an invaluable resource for advice, commiseration…and sometimes just a good vent session!

Take care of yourself

To successfully run a small business and care for your family, you need to take care of yourself first. That means getting enough sleep (when possible), eating healthy foods, and taking time for yourself when you can. It sounds clichéd, but it’s true—you cannot pour from an empty cup!

Find the right investors

When you’re a mom trying to start up and run a small business, the challenge of finding investors can be daunting. Venture capital for diverse founders is often hard to come by and difficult to obtain. The good news, however, is that there are resources available for mothers who own businesses. You can explore different sources such as female-led angel groups or even venture capital firms that focus on investing in moms and their businesses. Additionally, keep an eye out for local events that bring together entrepreneurs and potential funds like Venture Funds Fairs in your area which usually happen around major cities throughout the year.

By following these tips, you can successfully navigate the challenges of running a small business as a new mom. It won’t be easy—but it will be worth it in the end.

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Lizzie Weakley is a freelance writer from Columbus, Ohio. In her free time, she enjoys the outdoors and walks in the park with her husky, Snowball.