Starting a business is a challenging venture regardless of the circumstances, but adding a new baby into the mix can make things even harder. However, it doesn’t have to be impossible. With some careful planning, determination, and a little bit of help, you can successfully start a business while taking care of your new arrival. Here are some tips for making it work, courtesy of Philadelphia Women’s Network Connection.
Understanding Your Options
One of the best things you can do when starting a business while caring for a baby is to get help. Consider hiring a personal or virtual assistant who can help manage your day-to-day tasks, including answering emails, scheduling appointments, and managing social media profiles. This will free up more of your time to focus on growing your business and taking care of your newborn.
Planning Your Work Hours in Advance
It’s important to have a clear schedule in place to help you balance your business and parenting responsibilities. Before your baby arrives, take some time to plan out your working hours for the week ahead. Be sure to allow some flexibility if your baby needs you during those hours. It may be helpful to hire a babysitter for a few hours a day or ask a family member to watch the baby while you work.
Signing Up for an EIN for Your Company
If you are starting your own business, it is essential to obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS. This number will allow you to set up a business bank account, which is crucial for keeping your personal finances separate from your business finances. It will also help you to establish the legitimacy of your business.
Sharing Tasks
As a new parent, you will likely have a lot on your plate. While you might be tempted to try and do everything yourself, it’s okay to delegate some tasks to others. Identify which tasks can be delegated and ask family members or friends for help when they are available. This can include things like running errands, doing laundry, or cooking meals will also help you to establish the legitimacy of your business.
Investing In Comfy Clothes
New moms need new clothes, so be sure to invest in comfortable clothing that has a double- duty function and that makes it easy to nurse and look stylish. Go online and check into stretchable, breathable and soft clothes that help make the day go by a bit better. Items like leggings, jumpsuits and undies like comfortable and elegant nursing bras are a must.
Using Helpful Apps
There are many business programs available that can make your life easier. For example, you can use accounting software to help you manage your finances. You can also use tools to help you stay organized and on task. Thriving Parents advises looking for tools that will help you streamline your work and reduce your workload.
Creating an Emergency Strategy
As a new parent, it’s important to have an emergency plan in place in case something unexpected happens to your newborn. This should include a backup plan for your business so that work doesn’t suffer if you need to take time off to care for your baby. Consider hiring a temporary replacement or delegating important tasks to a colleague or trusted employee.
Getting Enough Sleep
Finally, it’s crucial to get enough sleep when you are starting a business and caring for a baby. It can be tempting to stay up late working on your business, but this can quickly lead to burnout. Sleep, Love and Happiness suggests making sure you are getting enough rest whenever possible, and consider taking short naps during the day to help you recharge.
Starting a business while also welcoming a new baby is undoubtedly challenging, but it is not impossible. By implementing the right strategies and using helpful tools, you can build a thriving business while still being present for your little one. It’s essential to prioritize self- care, delegate tasks, and seek support from family and friends to achieve a healthy work-life balance.
Guest Blogger
Joyce Wilson
Website: teacherspark.org
