Managing the juggle without dropping too many balls requires resilience, a can-do mindset that embraces flexibility, and a community of like-minded people to back you up. We asked some of our Bristol Freelance Mums what helps them to keep an equilibrium when it comes to being the MD of both their business and their home. Here’s what they said:
Do at least one thing every day
We get it—there are days when nearly all your time is taken up being a Mum. That’s the stage we’re at, and that’s ok!
So, when things are too busy to tackle the bigger things on your business to-do list (is there anyone out there who doesn’t always have ‘write social posts’ permanently on that list?!) just try and do one small thing each day that will move your business forward. Make a new connection on LinkedIn, arrange a 1:1, pop in to the FM Online Coffee Morning listen in on a Lunch & Learn, or do 10 minutes of research. Over time, those small things will make a difference.
Don’t be afraid to invest in help
Running a business is a big job for anyone, and few people manage it without a support team. Sometimes, that means paying for extra help. Figure out what expertise could make you more efficient and make life easier and see it as an investment.
Many of our FM solo business owners employ VAs, social media managers, business coaches, website support…the list goes on. Delegating and outsourcing are invaluable skills for a business owner. Don’t try and do it all by yourself.
Count on your network
Networking isn’t just about finding your next lead. It’s about supporting each other and being a community. So, share your ‘jumps and your grumps’, and be a listening ear for other people’s ups and downs.
The Bristol Freelance Mum networking community provides lots of opportunities to do this. The Freelance Mum Ashton Court Hub meet for their netwalk in the beautiful setting of Ashton Court Estate and our North Bristol Hub meet at The Ardagh Centre to netwalk in the lush surroundings of Horfield Common.
Take a different perspective on time
When you’re a parent, some phases feel like they’ll go on forever (those sleepless nights), while others are gone in a flash (when did they get so tall?!) To keep up, we mums in business need to be flexible—there’ll be periods when you have time for your business, and periods when you don’t.
Allow yourself to keep adjusting how you spend your time, and slow down when you need to. Think of your time like a cake (we do love cake at Freelance Mum!): a slice for family, a piece to share with other FMs, a portion for your business, and (this is just as important!) more than just a sliver for yourself!
Freelance Mum is about more than finding new business. It’s a safe space to give and get support, offload, feel a sense of belonging and raise each other up.
Find out more about Freelance Mum networking for mums in Bristol and across the Southwest.
