You might have been told that being a mum means you can’t do it all. Dirty nappies and deadlines don’t mix, right? Wrong! This is the 21st century and modern mums can have anything they like if they are willing to go after it.
This has never been more evident than in the boom of mothers starting their own side hustles and finding success their own way. It can be a great way to bring extra cash into the household, especially as the bills start to pile up.
Sound like something you might be interested in? Here’s how to be a successful side-hustlin’ mum:
1. Embrace the Digital Toolbox
Start by letting technology be your best friend. No, not the kind that distracts you with endless scrolls through TikTok (although, let’s face it, that’s fun too). I’m talking about apps and tools that streamline your tasks. From cloud-based calendars that sync your entire family’s schedule to invoicing apps that keep the cash flowing, and production training that enables you to train any employees you bring onboard along the way, there’s a digital solution for nearly every hurdle. Technology is the savvy side-hustlin’ mum’s secret weapon.
2. Time-Blocking: Your New BFF
Introduce yourself to the art of time-blocking. It’s like Tetris, but with your schedule. Allocate specific blocks of time to specific tasks and watch your productivity soar. Have an hour while the little one naps? Boom—that’s your golden hour for emails or creative work. Kids at a playdate? Power through your project tasks. It’s all about making the minutes count.
3. Set Realistic Goals
Keep your ambitions in check with realistic goal-setting. Sure, conquering the world before breakfast sounds great, but let’s keep our feet on the playground for now. Set achievable milestones for your side hustle that fit around your motherly duties, not in spite of them. This way, you get to celebrate lots of small wins, which keeps motivation high and burnout low.
4. The Night Owl Advantage
Sometimes, the best ideas come when the rest of the world is asleep. If you find yourself with a burst of energy after the kids have gone to bed, use those quiet evening hours to your advantage. Whether you’re crafting jewellery, writing a blog or planning your next big move, the night can be a surprisingly productive time for many mums.
5. Delegate Like a Boss
Whether it’s at home or in your side hustle, learn to delegate. No one gets extra points for doing it all alone. Partner up with your spouse to manage household chores, or consider outsourcing specific tasks of your business that are time-consuming or outside your expertise. This could mean hiring a virtual assistant or using automated tools that handle tasks like social media scheduling.
6. Network in Your Slippers
Gone are the days when networking meant stiff mixers and stuffy business cards. Thanks to the internet, you can connect with like-minded hustlers from all over the globe right from your living room. Join online forums, participate in virtual workshops, and don’t shy away from sliding into the DMs of someone you admire. You never know where a virtual “hello” can lead!
7. Remember, You’re a Rockstar
Above all, remember to cut yourself some slack. Balancing motherhood and a side hustle is no small feat. There will be days when the laundry piles up, or the business calls go unanswered, and that’s okay. You’re doing an incredible job, and it’s important to remind yourself of that fact regularly.
You got this, side-hustlin’ mum!
Partnered Post. May contain affiliate links.
