5 Tips for Mom Entrepreneurs to Boost Productivity and Get Things Done
As a mom entrepreneur, it can often feel like there are never enough hours in the day.
Between taking care of your family and running your business, it can be overwhelming trying to find time to get everything done. As an entrepreneur and mom myself, I often feel like one of my babies is not getting enough attention at any given time (my business being the other “baby” in my life).
However, with the right mindset and strategies, it’s possible to accomplish your goals and grow your business, all while maintaining your mental health.
Here are five tips to help you boost productivity and get things done.
Tip #1: Plan & Schedule.
In my life, I've found that if something isn't on my calendar, it doesn't get done. That's why it's important to block off time on your calendar for the things that really matter — time with friends and family, lunch, continuing education, and yes…even building your business.
I know you have a ton of competing demands on your time. It can be tempting to push business projects and tasks to the bottom of the priority list. But by scheduling time for your business on your calendar, you'll be more likely to follow through.
This includes projects that will grow your business and/or items to start your business.
For my new moms out there, think about blocking off an hour each day to work on your business during your child's naptime or after they go to bed. You could set aside a specific day of the week to ask family or friends to help with childcare while you focus on your business.
The key is to make sure that the time you schedule is realistic and achievable. You don't need huge chunks of free time to make progress. If all you have is 30 or 60 minute blocks, once or twice a week, use it!
The act of putting time on your calendar for what's important to you both helps you remember to do it and helps prevent other tasks from gobbling up your time.
Tip #2: Start with Baby Steps.
This tip is simple but surprisingly effective. It can be overwhelming to balance the demands of running a business with the responsibilities of caring for a child (or multiple children). Instead of waiting to get all your ducks in a row or to clear your to-do list of everything else, just get started.
Even if you only have a few minutes to spare, use that time to take action on something related to your business.
For instance, if you want to launch a new product, take a few minutes to brainstorm some ideas.
If you need to write a blog post, start with an outline.
If you want to reach out to potential clients, send a quick email or make a phone call.
The key is to create momentum.
Even baby steps give you forward momentum, and once you get started, you'll often discover that finding additional time for your business is easier than you expect.
Tip #3: Follow a Proven System.
You know it and I know it— you don't have a lot of time to waste on trial and error. Following a proven system can save you time and help you avoid costly mistakes. Look for resources that have been successful for other mom entrepreneurs in your industry. This could be a course, a book, a mentor, or a community of like-minded individuals.
If you're a mom blogger, you could join a community of mom bloggers to learn from others who have already succeeded.
If you're starting an online business, you could take a course that teaches you how to set up a website, create a sales funnel, and market your products.
There are plenty of people and programs out there that provide education and insight, so take action and find a path that you can easily follow to continue to build momentum. The key is to find a system that works for you and stick with it. Don't try to reinvent the wheel, but instead, focus on implementing what you learn and adapting it to your specific needs.
Tip #4: Leverage Resources.
Time is a precious commodity. You can't afford to waste it on repetitive tasks or reinventing the wheel. That's why it's important to leverage scripts, templates, worksheets, checklists, and software to save time and streamline your business processes.
If you're a blogger, you can use a blog post template to save time and ensure consistency in your writing. Similarly, if you're creating a social media post, you can use a script to ensure that your message is clear and on-brand.
If you’re growing your business and are having trouble keeping up with administrative tasks, think about hiring a Virtual Assistant or investing in software tools to help automate some of the tasks that are consuming large chunks of your time.
You are the brains behind your business, but that doesn’t mean you have to do it all. Lean on resources that are out there to help you spend more of your time on the revenue producing tasks that only you can do.
Tip 5: Embrace Imperfection.
Many mom entrepreneurs feel the pressure to be perfect in all aspects of their lives, including their businesses. But the truth is, perfectionism can hold you back from making progress and taking action. Instead of striving for perfection, focus on showing up and taking consistent action towards your goals.
If you're launching a new product, don't wait until everything is perfect before you launch. Instead, launch with the best version you have at the time and continue to iterate and improve as you go.
Remember, done is better than perfect.
Another way to focus on showing up is to prioritize self-care and mental health. It’s important to take care of yourself to avoid burnout. Take breaks when you need to, practice self-compassion, and surround yourself with supportive people who can help you stay motivated and inspired.
Remember that you don't have to do it alone.
Connecting with other entrepreneurial moms can be incredibly helpful and motivating. You may find it beneficial to join a mom entrepreneur group or seek out a coach who can help guide you through the ups and downs of running a business while raising a family.
A coach can provide accountability, support, and help you stay focused on your goals. Additionally, they can offer advice and share their own experiences as an entrepreneur and mom.
Remember, building a successful business as a mom entrepreneur is possible with the right mindset, strategies, and support system.
You got this, mama! 💜
Hi, I’m Jenna (and this is Adley),
I believe that being a mom and a business owner shouldn't be a trade-off, and with my Baby on Board Business Coaching Program, you can have the best of both worlds.
I'm here to help you grow your business and achieve your goals, all while balancing the needs of your family.
