As a soon to be 34-year-old Black mom raising an 11-year-old Black son in 2025 while managing businesses, trying to have a social life, and trying to take care of myself, life is a whirlwind of responsibilities, challenges, and opportunities. Balancing motherhood, entrepreneurship, and self-care isn't always easy, but it is possible. Over the years, I’ve learned that achieving harmony is less about perfection and more about prioritization, flexibility, and grace. One thing I have learned is that my 24 hours won't look like someone else's and that's okay. I hope some of these tips to help other moms find balance and thrive.
Embrace the Power of Planning
One of the biggest game-changers for me has been planning my days with intention. My only real off day is Sunday. So i try to sleep in, clean my house, go out for a few hours, and then every Sunday evening, I sit down with my planner and map out the week ahead. I write how I will spend Monday- Wednesday working on my online store, content creation, meetings, inventory checks, and boutique visits. Then Thursday-Saturday at my salon, things I need for my clients, and inventory to repurchase.
I love writing, it relaxes me and makes me happy to see all my pretty pen colors and doodles, but after I write everything I put it in my calendar and Evernote.
Tip: Use a digital calendar or planner to schedule everything from business meetings to school events and self-care activities. Color-coding can help you see where your time is going.
Set Boundaries for Work and Family
When you’re an entrepreneur, work can easily seep into every corner of your life. Setting clear boundaries has been essential for maintaining balance. Now I will say as an entrepreneur I truly work 25/8, but that's draining, and I am trying to pivot from a sales machine entrepreneur to a Founder & CEO. Which means firm boundaries need to be in place, so I won't burn out and hate the businesses I've created.
Tip: Designate specific work hours and stick to them. Communicate these boundaries to your clients and team and children!
For instance, I’ve made it a rule to turn my phone on dnd during dinner and family time with my son. My son appreciates the undivided attention, and it helps me stay present in the moment. I also leave my phone and ipad downstairs when I am going upstairs to unwind for the evening. That way I am not tempted to check it. I also give myself hours. For example, if I am working on a new product, I set a timer for 2 hours, and when the timer goes off I have to stop and move on to something else, or give myself a break. I also have timers to eat and drink water.
Prioritize Self-Care Without Guilt
As moms, we often put ourselves last, but I’ve learned that taking care of myself makes me a better mom and entrepreneur. Self-care doesn’t have to be elaborate or time-consuming. Putting myself first benefits everyone around me.
Tip: Start with small, consistent habits. A 15-minute morning meditation with prayer, a weekly face mask, or a quick nap can make a big difference. Yep I said nap, I will take a nap in a heartbeat!
I’ve started incorporating a morning ritual that includes praying, listening to my morning playlist of positive music, wood therapy, coffee in silence, and stretching before the chaos of the day begins. It’s my way of grounding myself and setting a positive tone for the day.
Lean on Your Support System
They say it takes a village, and I’ve found that to be true. Whether it’s family, friends, or trusted professionals, having a support system is invaluable. Over the last few months my client and friend has been my Biz Bestie, and it has been great! We have two completely different goals, but we have great insights for one another and are each others personal cheerleader and professional "You Got This Girl". I also have a best friend who tells me straight up when an idea sounds stupid, or when I'm letting imposter syndrome kick in. She will speak life into me and remind me that I'm really That Girl. I have another friend who offers to help me in so many ways and also always reminds me to sit down and relax. Also, my family is the best. Whether it's staying up late working on a show, coming with me to events, or helping me set up anything, they're there.
Tip: Don’t hesitate to ask for help. Delegating tasks at work or asking a friend to babysit can free up time for other priorities.
Be Kind to Yourself and Learn to Self Regulate
No one has it all together all the time, and that’s okay. Some days are more challenging than others, but I’ve learned to give myself grace. I thought by 30 I would be happily married, 3 kids, a business owner, and doing yoga 4 days a week while writing a book on my patio of my dream home. And while that life sounds amazing, I couldn't fathom having 3 kids come out of me, I'm divorced, I don't live in my dream home, and yoga is not for me at all. I actually prefer to lift weights and climb mountains. My point is, what you used to think your "now" would be may be different, but embrace the beauty of what makes it different and all of the benefits the difference makes. Don't give yourself a time limit or age frame for what your happiness will be, sometimes you won't even like the things you thought you wanted!
Tip: Celebrate small wins and remind yourself that you’re doing your best and that your best will look different everyday. And that's okay!
I remember a particularly hectic week when I felt like I was failing at everything. I was so overwhelmed. I expressed being overwhelmed to a few people and didn't get the responses I needed in the moment. Instead of dwelling on it, I took a step back, acknowledged my own efforts, and adjusted my expectations of myself and others around me. I also stopped what I was doing and went to sleep. Sometimes your mind and body just need to shut down and try again the next day, or week. The next week, I was more organized, less stressed, and even though I still felt overwhelmed I knew why and had a game plan.
Balancing motherhood, entrepreneurship, and self-care is a journey, not a destination. It requires ongoing adjustments and a commitment to what matters most. By planning intentionally, setting boundaries, prioritizing self-care, leaning on your support system, and practicing self-compassion, you can create a life that feels both fulfilling and manageable.
Remember, you’re not alone in this journey. Whether you’re a fellow mom navigating similar challenges or someone looking for inspiration, know that harmony is within reach. It’s not about doing it all but doing what matters most with love and intention.
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