The Reality of Being a Mum in Business: No Boss, No Problem

Being a mum and running a business is a juggling act like no other. Some days, everything flows smoothly—you tick off tasks, handle client calls, and still manage to get dinner on the table. Other days? You’re rushing to an emergency GP appointment at 8 AM, spending hours in A&E with your child, all while answering emails from a hospital chair.

That was my reality recently, and while it was a tough day, I found myself feeling incredibly grateful. Grateful that I didn’t have to ask a boss for time off. Grateful that my business could run even when I wasn’t at my desk. Grateful for the flexibility to be exactly where I needed to be: with my family.

But let’s be real balancing business and motherhood isn’t easy. The demands are constant, and without the right mindset and systems in place, it’s easy to burn out. So how do we make it work without pouring from an empty cup? 

Here are some key lessons I’ve learned along the way.

1. Embrace Flexibility—Your Schedule Won’t Be Perfect

Forget the traditional 9-to-5 model. When you’re a mum in business, flexibility is your greatest asset. Some days, you’ll work early mornings or late nights. Other days, you’ll squeeze in tasks between school runs, doctor visits, and football practice.

The key? Plan, but don’t over-plan. Set priorities for the day, use digital tools like Google Calendar or Trello, and accept that things may not go exactly as expected. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s progress.

2. Delegate and Outsource—You Can’t Do It All

This one took me a while to learn, but it’s a game-changer. As much as we’d love to be superwoman, doing everything alone only leads to exhaustion.

At home, get the kids involved with chores and ask for help when needed. In business, outsource where possible, whether it’s hiring a virtual assistant, using automation tools, or delegating tasks to a team member. Your time is precious, so focus on the things that truly need your attention.

3. Set Boundaries—Work and Home Life Need Separation

When you work for yourself, it’s easy to let business creep into every part of your day. You find yourself checking emails at the dinner table or taking client calls while trying to put your child to bed.

Boundaries are essential. Set clear work hours, communicate them to your family, and create a dedicated workspace if possible. When work time is over, be present with your family, your business will still be there tomorrow.

4. Prioritise Self-Care—You Can’t Pour from an Empty Cup

It’s easy to put yourself last when there’s always someone else needing your attention. But running on empty isn’t sustainable. If you’re constantly exhausted, your business and your family will feel it too.

Self-care doesn’t have to mean spa days or weekend getaways (though those are great too!). It can be as simple as:

   •   A 15-minute walk in the fresh air

   •   A morning coffee before everyone else wakes up

   •   A quiet moment to read a book or journal

Taking care of yourself isn’t selfish, it’s necessary. A well-rested, happy mum is far more effective than a burnt-out one.

5. Build a Support Network—You’re Not Alone

Entrepreneurship can be lonely, especially when balancing it with motherhood. Surround yourself with people who understand the journey whether it’s other mumpreneurs, business mentors, or supportive friends.

Join the Global Woman Club community, attend in person or online networking events in your city, or simply connect with someone over coffee. Sharing struggles, advice, and wins with like-minded women makes all the difference.

6. Let Go of Perfection—Done is Better Than Perfect

The pressure to be the “perfect” mum and the “perfect” business owner is real. But chasing perfection only leads to stress and self-doubt.

Some days, the house will be messy. Some days, you’ll miss a deadline. Some days, dinner will be a takeaway. And guess what? It’s okay.

Instead of striving for perfection, aim for consistency. Keep showing up, keep learning, and give yourself grace on the hard days.

Final Thoughts: You’ve Got This

Being a mum in business is not an easy route, but it’s one of the most rewarding. The freedom to be there for your family while building something of your own is priceless.

Yes, there will be tough days. Days when the emails pile up, the kids get sick, and you wonder if you’re doing it right. But there will also be days when you see just how far you’ve come—when you realise that you are creating a life that works on your terms.

So keep going, keep growing, and most of all, keep believing in yourself. You’re doing better than you think.