Lessons Learned: Reflections on Parenthood and Entrepreneurship

As a mompreneur navigating the intricate dance between motherhood and entrepreneurship, I've encountered exhilarating highs and daunting lows on this rollercoaster journey.

I find solace and inspiration in the vibrant tapestry of voices within the GS 10,000 Small Businesses Voices community on Linkedin. Drawn by the collective wisdom and shared experiences of fellow members, I'm compelled to contribute my own reflections to this ongoing dialogue.

My name is Ari, and I'd like to share with you the invaluable lessons I've learned along the way—lessons I wish I knew before embarking on this dual adventure.

#1: Don't manage time. Manage yourself.

Misconceptions about time management include the belief that we can control time itself. Time is beyond our control, but we can control our actions and habits. In those early years, every moment felt like a precious gem as I juggled the demands of nurturing my newborn son while nurturing my business, Chykalophia.

Now, I understand that developing better habits, rather than trying to control time itself, is the cornerstone of effective work-life balance. Use these tips, and be sure to let me know how they work for you:

• Create a flexible routine with blocks for essential tasks, adapting to your child's needs.
• Delegate tasks when possible, and prioritize tasks wisely using the Eisenhower matrix.
• Use Sundays for reflection and planning to set realistic goals and expectations.

#2: Your boundaries are about you.

For me, the primary significance of boundaries lies in self-care. They serve as gentle reminders that life extends beyond work, finances, and productivity. When I emphasize self-care, I'm not referring to a means to enhance productivity but rather to prioritize my well-being and personal fulfillment. It's about nurturing myself to feel genuinely good, not just to fuel my work endeavors.

#3: Task batching is everything.

Another valuable tip I've found effective is task-batching. Instead of switching between different types of tasks throughout the day, I group similar tasks together and tackle them in dedicated blocks of time. This approach helps minimize distractions and allows me to maintain focus, ultimately increasing productivity and efficiency.

#4 Balance doesn’t exist.

Let’s be real: finding balance every single day isn't always feasible. Some days, work requires more of my time, especially during busy events, while other days are filled with family commitments, like attending school events during the holiday season. It's important to stay mindful of how I allocate my time, but I've also learned not to be too hard on myself if one aspect of my life receives more attention than the other at times. The key is being aware of it and adjusting accordingly.

Final Words

In conclusion, the journey of balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship has been filled with both challenges and triumphs. While there are things I wish I had known beforehand, every experience has contributed to my growth and resilience. Here's to embracing the journey and all the beautiful moments it holds.

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