Being a mum and a business owner at the same time is no easy feat. As much as you love them, there are days when you feel completely overwhelmed. Between family duties and business deadlines.
Many wonder if they will ever have time for themselves again. Sound familiar?
The good news? It is possible to manage both without feeling constantly torn between the two. I want to share my 7 essential tips for mums running small businesses, so you can stay organised, productive, and inspired—without the guilt!
Let’s dive in.
1. Stop the Guilt
Feeling guilty about working while your kids need attention? Or guilty about playing with them while thinking about unfinished orders? It’s normal. But remember: you’re building this business for them. You’re setting an example of hard work and independence!
Here’s how to ease the guilt:
Quality over quantity – Be fully present when spending time with your kids, even if it’s just 30 minutes of undivided attention.
Involve them (when possible) – Let older kids help with small tasks or keep younger ones engaged while you work.
Set realistic work hours – Find times that work best (early mornings, naps, after bedtime).
Let go of perfection – Some days will be more about business, some will be more about family. That’s okay.
2. Manage Your Time Wisely
The secret to balancing mum life and business? Smart time management.
Work around your kids’ schedules – Use nap times for deep work and playtime for lighter tasks like answering messages.
Time blocking – Dedicate specific time slots for work, family, and personal time. Example:
🏡 7 AM - 9 AM: Family time
💻 9 AM - 12 PM: Work (during nap time)
👶 12 PM - 3 PM: Playtime & chores
📱 3 PM - 5 PM: Social media engagement
✨ 8 PM - 10 PM: Focused work
Use productivity hacks:
Batch content creation
Schedule social media posts in advance (using free tools like Meta Business Suite)
Work in focused time blocks (Pomodoro method: 25-45 min work, short breaks in between)
3. Prioritise Your Top 3 Tasks Daily
Instead of a never-ending to-do list, focus on just 3 important tasks each day. Ask yourself:
What will generate sales? (e.g., promoting a product)
What absolutely needs to get done today? (e.g., fulfilling an order)
What can be postponed or simplified?
Breaking big tasks into smaller steps makes them more manageable. If you can’t finish it all in one day, that’s okay—progress is still progress!
4. Automate and Simplify Your Business
Work smarter, not harder. Automating and simplifying tasks will save you tons of time.
Automate social media – Use free tools like Meta Business Suite, Later, or Canva to schedule posts in advance.
Reuse content – Turn one product photo into a carousel post, reel, and story.
Automate customer messages – Use quick replies for FAQs like “How to order?” or “What’s the price?”
Batch process orders – Instead of fulfilling one at a time, set a specific time each day to pack everything at once.
Pre-pack supplies – Keep boxes, thank-you cards, and ribbons ready to go!
By automating and simplifying, you’ll have more time for your children while still running a thriving business. 🥰
5. Manage Your Money Wisely
Keeping your business and personal finances separate will help you track profits and reinvest properly.
Open a separate business bank account – This keeps finances organised and helps with tax tracking.
Pay yourself a “salary” – Even if it’s small at first, set a fixed amount to transfer to your personal account.
Track all income & expenses – Use a simple spreadsheet or free accounting apps.
Reinvest wisely – Before splurging on new supplies, check if they will truly boost sales.
A financially healthy business means long-term sustainability and growth! 💰
6. Set Boundaries & Ask for Help
One of the hardest parts of working from home? Set boundaries. It’s okay to say no sometimes!
Communicate with your family – Let your partner or family know when you need uninterrupted work time.
Get help when possible – Even an hour of babysitting from a relative or friend can make a huge difference.
Accept that some days won’t go as planned – Flexibility is key. Be kind to yourself!
You’re not alone in this—lean on your support system when needed. 💛
7. Remember Why You Started
When things get tough, remind yourself why you started this journey.
To build something meaningful while raising your kids
To have financial independence and flexibility
To be a role model for your children
Your kids are watching, and they’ll grow up seeing a strong, hardworking, and determined mum. That’s something to be proud of. 💪
You Got This, Business Mum!
Running a small business while raising a family is challenging, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. With the right mindset, strategies, and support, you can achieve both your business and family goals.
Which tip resonated with you the most? Let me know in the comments! And if you found this helpful, share it with another mum who might need a little encouragement today. ❤️
You’re doing an amazing job—keep going! 🎉
Author: Jovit Lucero
Published 20 March 2025
