As Women’s History Month unfolds, I find myself reflecting on the remarkable journey of women in entrepreneurship, particularly those who, like me, dared to embark on the adventure of business ownership while raising young children. This is not just a tale of business growth; it’s a celebration of the indomitable spirit of mothers who defy odds and stereotypes to pursue their dreams.
My journey into entrepreneurship began at a time when my hands were already full with the demands of motherhood. With a six-month-old baby and a toddler barely out of diapers, I felt the yearning for something more than the roles of caregiver and homemaker. It was then that the idea of starting my own business emerged as a beacon of opportunity—a chance to channel my creativity, earn supplemental income, and carve out a flexible schedule that revolved around my family’s needs.
Launching my first business wasn’t just about financial gain; it was a testament to the resilience and resourcefulness inherent in women entrepreneurs. Balancing the demands of nurturing a growing business with the responsibilities of caring for young children was no easy feat. Yet, fueled by determination and fueled by necessity, I dove headfirst into the world of entrepreneurship.
The early days were a whirlwind of multitasking—juggling diaper changes with package pickups, crafting products during nap times, and seizing every available moment to advance my business skills. I became adept at maximizing the pockets of time between feedings and bedtime routines, transforming car rides into personal development (thanks Audible) and mastering the art of multitasking while breastfeeding.
Weekends were spent at farmers’ markets, where I showcased my products while simultaneously attending to the needs of my growing family. I vividly remember pumping in the backseat of my car between sales and answering customer inquiries with a toddler nestled in my lap. It was a testament to the boundless capacity of women to adapt and thrive in the face of challenges.
As my business expanded, so did my family. Two more children joined the fold, each adding new layers of joy and complexity to my entrepreneurial journey. Through it all, I embraced the duality of motherhood and entrepreneurship, recognizing that each role enriched the other in unexpected ways.
Today, my children are older, the days of baby bottles and diapers have faded into memory, and my business has changed. Yet, my commitment to entrepreneurship remains steadfast, intertwined with the rhythms of school pickups, extracurricular activities, and parent-teacher meetings. I’ve learned to embrace the ebb and flow of motherhood and business ownership, finding fulfillment in the symbiotic relationship between the two.
As I reflect on my journey, I’m filled with admiration for the countless women who, like me, navigate the intricate dance of entrepreneurship and motherhood with grace and determination. We are the unsung heroes of the business world, defying stereotypes and rewriting the narrative of what it means to be a successful entrepreneur. By embracing the juggling act of entrepreneurship and parenthood, we’re not only shaping our own futures but also laying the foundation for a generation of resilient and resourceful little humans who have witness firsthand the dedication, perseverance, and creativity required to run a business while also nurturing a family.
So here’s to the women who dare to dream, who refuse to be confined by societal expectations, and who embrace the chaos and beauty of balancing babies and businesses. Our stories may be diverse, but our shared resilience and tenacity unite us in a sisterhood of strength. As we celebrate Women’s History Month, let us champion the courage and fortitude of entrepreneurial mothers everywhere, paving the way for future generations of trailblazers.
Here’s a few of my favorite products for women business owners by women business owners:
- Boss Lady Mug and Favorite Position Mug by Desert Rose Boutique
- Energy Flows Where Intention Goes Planner by Chthonic Co (FREE for a limited time)
