As we bid farewell to 2023 and usher in 2024, I find myself reflecting on the chaotic, messy, and intense journey that was this past year. While it wasn't a terrible year, it certainly wasn't my best season. Being a new mom while juggling entrepreneurship and self-discovery has taught me many valuable lessons over the past year. Here's what I've learned…

Are you a new parent struggling to balance your professional goals with the demands of parenting? If so, entrepreneurship could be the answer you're looking for! Here are some reasons why starting your own business can be a game-changer for new parents:

You're the boss!

As an entrepreneur, you decide when and where you work. This means you can prioritize your family's needs while pursuing your career goals.

Money matters.

Starting your own business gives you more control over your income. You can set your own rates and take on as much work as you want. This means you can contribute financially to your household while still being present for your children.

Do what you love.

Starting your own business allows you to pursue your passions and do work you truly enjoy. This can be an excellent source of personal fulfillment and can help you stay motivated.

Connect with others.

As an entrepreneur, you'll be part of a supportive community of like-minded individuals who understand the challenges of balancing work and parenting. This community can offer advice, support, and new opportunities.

Flexibility is key.

One of the biggest benefits of entrepreneurship is its flexibility. You can set your own schedule and work from home or remote locations. This can be a huge advantage for new parents who want to spend more time with their children.

Sound like something you want to do? Here are some next steps and ideas for new parents who are interested in starting their own business:

Identify your skills and passions. What are you good at? What do you enjoy doing? Think about how you can turn those skills and passions into a business idea.

Do your research. Once you have a business idea in mind, do some research to make sure there's a market for it. Look at similar businesses in your area and online, and see how they're doing.

Write a business plan. A business plan will help you organize your ideas and create a roadmap for your business. It should include things like your target market, competition, marketing plan, and financial projections.

Consider your financing options. Think about how you'll fund your venture and how much you'll need to get started.

Start small. It's okay to start small and grow your business over time. You don't need to have everything figured out from the beginning.

Build a support network. Starting a business can be challenging, so it's helpful to have a support network of family, friends, and fellow entrepreneurs. Join local business groups, attend networking events, and connect with other entrepreneurs online.

Balance your time. Remember that starting a business takes time and energy, but so does parenting. Find ways to balance both, such as working during nap times or hiring a babysitter for a few hours a week.

In terms of business ideas, here are a few to consider:

Freelancing: If you have a skill such as writing, graphic design, or web development, consider freelancing. This allows you to work from home and take on projects as your schedule allows.

Etsy shop: If you're crafty or artistic, consider starting an Etsy shop to sell your handmade goods.

Childcare: If you have experience with children, consider starting a home-based daycare or nanny service.

Online courses: If you have expertise in a particular area, consider creating online courses to share your knowledge with others.

Consulting: If you have experience in a particular industry, consider offering consulting services to businesses or individuals.

The possibilities are endless! With a bit of creativity and hard work, you can start a successful business and be present for your family.

In conclusion, starting your own business can be a fantastic solution for new parents who want to pursue their professional goals while still being present for their families. With the flexibility, control, and personal fulfillment entrepreneurship offers, you can have the best of both worlds!

Are you the type of business that's "for everybody"? How is that working for you? The truth is, we can't be everything to everyone. When you're for everyone, your message becomes generic and lost in the noise, making your business appeal to no one.

Congrats! You've decided to go out on your own. There will be many next steps in this process - and it might feel a little overwhelming to know what to do next. In our opinion, the first step to creating a successful freelance biz, side hustle, or small biz is making sure you have the right mindset. Here are a few ways to get your mindset in check.