The myth that you must choose between being a stay-at-home mom and having a lucrative career originated from an era long gone, where technical limitations made both of these things impossible to run simultaneously. Today, however, this is no longer the case, and all the empowered brilliant women across the globe have an opportunity to make an impact on the business world without ever having to leave their homes.
Still, just because this is possible doesn’t mean it’s easy. Making it in the business world is hard on its own, and it’s made exponentially harder when you have another major responsibility on your shoulders. Here are five tips to help you alleviate this burden a bit.
1. Hunt for deals when buying equipment
When starting a business, every penny saved counts. You’ll want to hunt for deals, especially on your needed hardware. Check out places like Amazon, eBay, and even local retailers. Moreover, refurbished or gently used equipment can save a lot while still getting the job done.
Black Friday and Cyber Monday are the perfect times to buy what you need for your new business. The deals are usually unbeatable, and you’ll find discounts on almost everything. Amazon Black Friday deals cover everything from subscriptions and digital products to hardware you need for work. Also, watch for flash sales or early access deals that may pop up even before the big day.
You don’t always need the latest, more expensive tech. For example, a Chromebook might serve your needs just as well as a high-end laptop, especially if your work is web-based. Look at what you actually need the hardware for, and pick something that fits your requirements without breaking the bank.
Instead of paying for software month-to-month, you can often save money by purchasing longer-term licenses. This means you’ll pay less in the long run and won’t have to worry about monthly renewals. Plus, companies often offer discounts for one- or two-year commitments, making it a great way to cut costs.
2. Choose a business model that fits your schedule
As a stay-at-home mom, flexibility is key. You want a business model that allows you to work around your kids’ schedules. Freelancing, for example, lets you choose your projects, while drop shipping can run largely in the background, giving you the time to focus on your family. Time management is one of the keys to starting a small business as a women entrepreneur, and by finding a model that fits your schedule, you’ll ensure sustainability in the long run.
You don’t need to work full-time to be successful. Part-time hours can help you ease into your new business while maintaining a good work-life balance. Moreover, starting part-time lets you test the waters without feeling overwhelmed by too many commitments from the get-go.
Your family is your top priority, so choose a business model that accommodates their needs. Whether it’s taking time off for school activities or managing household tasks, you want a setup that allows you to step away when needed. Also, make sure your clients or customers understand your schedule.
Automation is your best friend. From social media scheduling to email responses, there are tons of tools available that can save you time and effort. Moreover, automating repetitive tasks helps you focus on the areas of your business that need your personal attention, keeping everything running smoothly.
3. Build a website on a budget
You don’t need a fancy, expensive website to get started. According to some estimates, an average (up to 16-page) website costs a small business roughly $2,000 to $9,000 to design and up to $1,200 in upkeep. This is too much for someone just starting out, but it’s undisputable that you do need a website.
Free platforms like Wix and WordPress allow you to build a professional-looking site without any upfront costs. Also, these platforms are beginner-friendly, so you won’t need to hire a web designer to create something that looks great.
A custom domain name makes your business look more professional, and it doesn’t have to be expensive. You can find affordable domain options through sites like GoDaddy or Namecheap. Moreover, having your own domain adds credibility and makes it easier for customers to find you online.
You don’t need a flashy website with all the bells and whistles. Simple and clean designs often work best, especially when starting out. Moreover, a straightforward layout can help visitors navigate your site more easily, ensuring they find what they’re looking for without getting lost in the details.
You don’t need the top-tier hosting plan right away. Many providers offer affordable basic plans that are perfect for new businesses. As your traffic grows, you can upgrade your plan. Also, starting small helps you avoid unnecessary expenses until you really need more resources.
Social media is an excellent way to build your brand for free. Platforms like Facebook and Instagram offer massive reach without any cost. Also, by posting regularly, you keep your business visible to your audience and attract potential customers who are just discovering your products or services.
Online communities are a great resource for connecting with your target audience. Whether it’s mom groups on Facebook or niche-specific forums, these platforms allow you to engage directly with people who might be interested in your products. Moreover, it’s a great way to network and gather feedback.
Consistency is key when it comes to social media. Posting regularly ensures your business stays at the forefront of your audience’s mind. Also, it helps build trust and reliability – two qualities that will serve you well as your online enterprise grows. Just don’t overwhelm your followers with too much content.
Social media isn’t just about posting; it’s also about engaging. Responding to comments, answering questions, and starting conversations can go a long way in building customer relationships. Moreover, being active helps show your followers that you’re accessible and care about their options.
5. Organize your workspace
Your workspace should be free from distractions so you can focus on your tasks. This might mean setting up in a quiet house corner or investing in noise-canceling headphones. Also, having a designated workspace helps you mentally switch into “work mode,” which can boost your productivity.
Comfort is crucial when you’re working from home. Invest in an ergonomic chair and a desk that suits your needs. Moreover, a functional setup keeps you comfortable and makes it easier to stay focused and get work done efficiently, which is especially important when juggling family and business.
Keep everything you need for your business within arm’s reach to avoid unnecessary distractions. Whether it’s office supplies, your planner, or your laptop charger, having things close by ensures you stay on this task. Also, a well-organized space can make your data feel more structured, helping you stay efficient.
Your workspace should be a place you enjoy spending time in. Add personal touches like family photos, plants, or motivational quotes. Moreover, these small details can keep you inspired and remind you why you’re working so hard, giving you that extra motivation boost when needed.
With the right plan, no idea will remain impossible
You’ve got the flexibility to build something great on your own terms. Remember, taking advantage of deals, using the right tools, and maintaining an organized workspace will save you time and money. Balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship comes down to smart planning and steady progress.
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