Hey Woman - You Want to Start a Business?

As a woman, you deal with different things than the average man who works at home.  Starting and maintaining a business while running a household requires an effective process or stress will quickly toss you under the bus.  Time management is crucial or your life will quickly lack the balance it needs to maintain success in key areas.

Running a business has many facets.  Throw in a husband who still needs a wife/lover to come home to.  Add in kids who need mom.  And because a woman’s work is never done, the nest needs maintenance.  You even have some homeschooling, homesteading, or active church or community participation going on.  It’s enough to make you want to throw in the towel before you even get started.  Yet you have this dream that just won’t let go of you.

I’m primarily writing to married women who work - or want to work - a freelance business from home.  Others may find value here, and you are welcome to glean anything you can, too.  Just know that your mileage may vary.

Women face different struggles 

Many men have written some good material about working from home.  The one challenge many of them don’t face is the need to cook and clean for their spouse and kids.  Typically they can get up and work until breakfast is ready.  They worry about shutting off the constant interruptions.  We rarely have the same luxury.  I know there are exceptions (men with military spouses on leave is just one example.)  I rarely see men writing from that point of view.

Studies still indicate women do a disproportionate amount of the housework, even when the woman works outside the home.  We also need to consider our physical needs and scheduling certain challenges more lightly during certain parts of the month.  We need to deal with stereotypes that come with being a female entrepreneur as well as a freelancer.

Deal with the start-up

Pulling together the pieces to open your business is dizzying and time-consuming.  Learning which business entity makes sense for you.  Picking a logo and business cards.  Deciding on an accounting system. Understanding how to work with technology to build your website. You just want to do your thing already!

Keep a business alive

You have your accounting system picked, and you know how to use it for your day to day operations, but you still need to know what certain numbers mean and why they are critical for the life of your business. Learn how to market regularly and even out cash flow.

Time management

Time-management is a challenge.  It’s a messy process to find what works best for you.  This will be a place to find ideas and be reminded of the big picture when you find yourself absorbed by overwhelm when something isn’t working.  Learning how to get the important stuff done by your designated quitting time?  Priceless!

Balance

Learning to pay attention to various categories for a balanced life is critical to success or it will be hollow.  A fulfilled wife/mom who isn’t stressed out all the time will be the biggest gift to her family and community, as well as her clients. Pursuing health through exercise, sleep, hydration, and good eating gives you more energy for all the challenges on your agenda.  So does personal growth – in business, relationships, and especially God.  

Streamline

Whether it’s a system for marketing, billing, cleaning or paying bills, streamlining the process lets you optimize your day and reduce stress.  Some of you will be able to negotiate with your husband for help.  Some won’t.  We’ll talk about it in a way that upholds your marriage.  No man-bashing here.  (Not only is it harmful to the relationship, it’s a complete waste of energy.)

I hope you’ll join me 

This is a space where people get your struggle.  I’m just starting this journey.  Some areas are stronger than others are.  Sometimes, I have it together better than others - and then I hit a bump and struggle.  I’m determined to learn and give you a front row seat.  You get to avoid my mistakes and see where I succeed. I want to be a beacon that helps you avoid my pitfalls.  I want to demonstrate that it’s ok to be imperfect – a journey in itself for this perfectionist!   

Tuesday Table Talk 

Look for posts every Tuesday.  This will be our time to gather around the coffee table, enjoy a cuppa together, spread out our workload and see where we can gain clarity in our lives.  With clarity, we will have greater success and value in the activities we choose.  With those wise choices, we stand a far greater chance to succeed in our business ventures.

I hope to see you Tuesday!