How to Balance Raising a Child With Starting a Business

Are you a parent that wants to take things to the next level and start a business? It is no easy task but the long-term financial and lifestyle benefits of owning your own business can pay off in the future. While many parents think of starting a business, not many can manage upskilling as a new parent and focusing on business ventures at the same time. This article will go through some tips and tricks for parents to balance both entrepreneurial obligations and parental tasks for long-term success.

Tip #1: You Need To Live By Your Schedule

Working parents potentially have the most difficult time starting businesses, when you are responsible for another life aside from yourself it's a different ball game altogether. That being said, it is possible but you certainly will have to establish a schedule to streamline everything and ensure you don't get sidetracked. The best way to do this is through time blocking, which means compartmentalising your work, home and social obligations throughout the week. It will not only ensure you don't waste time but it will also improve focus when you know exactly what to do during a given day. We recommend using any calendar that works for you whether that be Apple, Google or any other platform.

Tip #2: Take Advantage Of Technology

Technology has come a long way and luckily we now have an array of tools that we can use to not only manage time but businesses and tasks. If you're looking to squeeze every ounce of productivity out of yourself then it would be a mistake to not use one of the many tools at your disposal. 

Study a Certificate Course Online

As a time poor parent who cannot just leave the baby at home, online course delivery lets you get your certification online without leaving the house.  This is especially useful if you’re looking for a qualification to enhance your new business experience – include an online certificate course in entrepreneurship, recognised nationally.

Productivity Apps and Time-Tracking Software

There is an array of tools available online to do everything from prioritising tasks to setting goals and staying focused. Sure you can stick to the classic pen and paper if it works for you but by utilising these digital tools, it can potentially exponentially increase our output. So it's worth at least giving them a try so you can see what's possible with some of these tools.

Video Chat Programs and Work Management Platforms

In addition to productivity tools, video chat programs can be a great way to stay connected with family and colleagues. There is less need to be together in an office in this new post-pandemic digital landscape which is even more advantageous to working parents. Programs like Zoom or Skype mean that you can facilitate work meetings from home while you're caring for your children. Handy, hey?

Tip #3: Gather A Team and Don't Go At It Alone

When we start to develop businesses it gets more and more apparent that one person isn't capable of doing everything. All higher levels start to delegate. When you're looking after children this time might come even earlier.

Get Family or Friends to Help Out

Whether it's doing the dishes, laundry, or grocery shopping, delegating tasks to other family members can make a huge difference. While you're running your business, having other family members take care of the kids and do tasks can make a massive difference. If you're all on the same page and working together it's definitely wise to share the workload.

Delegate Non-Essential Tasks to Staff

The current digital economy is ripe with skilled freelancers to take on work that you might need to delegate as a new business owner. When you start to notice that you have too much on your plate you should start to outsource this work. There are many online resources that can help such as agency businesses or even personal assistants.

Tip #4: Prioritise Self-Care To Avoid Burnout

We live in a fast-paced world and taking on the strains of business and parenthood can be a major stressor on your mental and physical wellbeing. When you start to feel overwhelmed it's vital that you take some time to rest and balance yourself. Things like exercise, walking outside, meditation or even reading can help get you back some equanimity. While it might feel like you're not being productive, continuously working long hours can improve sub-par results and getting some much-needed rest might make you even more productive.

Conclusion

Being both a parent and a professional can be a juggling act, but with careful planning, using the right resources and management it is possible to be successful. It’s important to remember that there are many that are also going through the same path and the struggle will eventually be worth it as long as you don't give up. So make sure you have the vision and persist until you make it work. Good luck.

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