Kids And Careers: How To Be A “Mom Boss”

Since the beginning of civilization, moms have always been entrepreneurs. The biological capacity to give birth to the next generation, while it allowed the human species to evolve, did not preclude the other responsibilities of women. They had to be smart and fast, but also nurturing. This is no small feat.

As with contemporary entrepreneurs and business leaders, mothers have always organized and managed multiple projects and ensured their completion. They regularly work very long hours and are expected to perform miracles every day! This mindset is NOT based on ignorance. Not by a long shot. Both moms and entrepreneurs are acutely aware of the chaos and challenges of running a “business,” but they are not intimidated by them.  

“In the vast majority of cases, women who are also mothers have the skill set, mental and emotional capacities to become extremely successful, self-employed virtual assistants, freelancers, or other solopreneurs,” says Kathy Goughenour, CEO and founder of Virtual Expert® Training. “Plus, the flexibility that this type of work-from-home business affords allows them to be more available mothers.” 

Going Off to Work

Since the time when women first left their traditional domestic duties, including homemaking and child rearing (in the early 20th century), mothers have felt a tinge of guilt. This sentiment is described accurately by “The Positive Mom.”

“We feel guilty when we leave our kids to go to work. And then we feel guilty when we’re at work because we’re not with our kids. And if we are mom entrepreneurs, we have the constant struggle of trying to be present with our kids and productive in our projects. It sometimes feels like a no-win situation. 

“And on top of all of that, we have imposter syndrome to deal with. Because who even knows if we’re doing any of this, right?  

“But here’s the thing: we are! We’re doing a fantastic job. And it’s okay to not be perfect. Honestly, it’s more than okay; it’s necessary. Because if we were perfect, we wouldn’t be able to relate to anyone else. And you know what I always say: Real moms aren’t perfect, and perfect moms aren’t real.”

It’s important to note that the world of work has changed. Now a mom, whether perfect or not, doesn’t have to leave her kids behind at home or daycare. She can have a successful career, probably meet or exceed her current income, and do it from home. This flexibility changes everything for working moms!

Kathy notes, “We have trained hundreds of women to build their own virtual businesses, including finding and getting new clients, managing multiple projects, and getting paid! Digital technology — online conferencing tools like “Zoom” meetings — that first gained popularity during the pandemic makes it possible for virtual assistants, freelancers, and Virtual Experts to have the flexibility to be successful entrepreneurs and mothers.”

The key is not to prioritize what’s on your schedule, but to schedule your priorities.

~ Stephen Covey 

Real Moms and Real Success Stories

“Our Virtual Expert training network is an excellent group to learn about the benefits and challenges of being a self-employed business owner and mother,” Kathy said. “I asked this of a couple of our successful team members: Anne Schwab and Jennifer Tamborski.

When asked about “the best things of being a ‘Mom Boss,” Anne said, “Setting my own schedule and having the flexibility to make my schedule around my kids and family. I feel in control of my professional life, and it allows me to enjoy my personal life.”

As for the challenges of being a virtual business owner, she noted, “Creating work boundaries and a dedicated workspace and only working during those hours in my office (which isn’t fancy…just a desk in a corner!). I suggest that you set hours that make sense for your life. Don’t set yourself up for failure with a schedule that doesn’t make sense for your life. It’s a fluid process; it’s ok if it changes as life changes.”

Was Anne hesitant about becoming a “Mom Boss?” “Yes. I was concerned about being self-employed because I felt like I needed a stable income. But then my husband pointed out that I have been laid off twice due to no fault of my own…so how stable is that?”

Jennifer shared her thoughts on these issues.

“Being available when my kids need me is the best part of this arrangement for me,” she said. “This means I can attend every school event and function. It’s also important for me to not have to call off work when they are sick and be able to flex my time so I can focus on them.”

As for the challenges, Jennifer said, “Time management can be tough sometimes. It's easy to put all your time and effort into your business and forget why you're doing it. I set specific hours that I work. I also have a dedicated office space. When I leave that space, I leave the work there.”

So, what advice do these two successful entrepreneurs share with their kids?

For Anne: “Work hard and remember your WHY. Don’t get lost in the work and not enjoy the benefits.”

For Jennifer: “Focus on what you love to do and make that your career. You won't enjoy every day, and the good days should definitely outweigh the bad days. Commit to yourself and your business, and you will be successful.”