7 New Mompreneur Tips
Finding out I was pregnant was surreal, exhilarating, and yes, a bit terrifying. Was I really starting a business when pregnant? Yes, yes I was. It was the start of me being a part of the mompreneur club, officially.
That moment sparked a big question in my mind: Could I build a business that would give me both fulfillment and flexibility? The answer turned out to be yes. And if you’re pregnant and thinking about starting your own business, know this: it’s absolutely doable. Here’s how I made it happen and how you can, too.
Why Starting a Business When Pregnant Can Be a Game Changer
When I first started my business, I didn’t realize I was also about to start a whole new life chapter in more ways than one. On the night I launched my business—celebrating the end of my career and diving headfirst into consulting—I found out I was pregnant. Talk about timing! In a single evening, I became an entrepreneur and a mom-to-be, and the energy I felt was like nothing else. It was as if both my personal and professional dreams were being born at the same time.
This wasn’t a one-time burst of inspiration, either. When I was pregnant with my second, I felt that same incredible surge of energy and drive. That’s when I decided to write BossMom – so fitting for a mompreneur, right? The pregnancy fueled my creativity, and my business journey kept me focused on building something meaningful. Both times, being pregnant while working on something big gave me an extra sense of purpose.
Here’s what I learned through it all: there’s something uniquely empowering about starting a business or tackling a big project while you’re pregnant. It’s as if every fiber of your being is saying, “I’m creating something amazing!” The timing might feel chaotic, but that dual focus on nurturing both your business and your family can be a game changer. It can give you the drive, energy, and resilience to keep going, even on the tough days.
Here are some additional perks of starting a business when pregnant.
- Flexibility: I work on my schedule, so I don’t miss those precious firsts.
- Balance: I get to be both the mom I want to be and have a fulfilling career.
- Building on My Terms: My work now fits into my life, not the other way around.
Now, let’s get into how I made this work (and how you can, too).
1. Trust Your Instincts
If building a business while pregnant feels right, trust that feeling. For me, it was about having the freedom to be present for my daughter while still feeling accomplished in my career. So, if you feel that pull, lean into it—you’ll figure out the rest.
2. Start Networking Early
Before I even decided to leave my job, I began planting seeds by talking to people in my network. I casually mentioned I’d have a few hours each week for freelance work. The response? Overwhelmingly positive, and exactly the encouragement I needed.
So, reach out. Even if you’re only considering a few part-time hours, let people know. You’d be surprised how fast opportunities can come your way when you’re clear about your goals.
3. Build Your Presence Without Breaking the Bank
You don’t need all the fancy trimmings to launch. I started simply:
- Logo? A friend whipped one up.
- Business cards? Vistaprint, $15.
- Website? A basic WordPress site with a $29/year domain.
It doesn’t need to be perfect—just professional enough to get started. As long as you present yourself with intention, people will take you seriously. Mompreneurs are legit, end of story.
4. Don’t Overcommit—Keep It Real
I wasn’t sure how much I could handle at first, so I started slow—10-15 hours a week, mostly during naps and late evenings. My advice? Start small, learn what you can manage, and scale as you grow. Easing in will help you build confidence and find a rhythm without feeling overwhelmed.
5. Set a Routine
Even with a few hours a day, a consistent routine can make all the difference. Create clear work hours and communicate those boundaries to your clients and family. A little structure goes a long way in helping everyone respect your time.
6. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help
There’s no award for going it alone. My husband stepped up at home, and we found a great neighbor who helps watch my daughter a few times a week. Having a support system allows you to stay present where you need to be. So, reach out—your village is there for a reason.
7. Keep Burnout in Check
Let’s be real—running a business and being a mom can feel like a marathon. Being a mompreneur is actually harder than a marathon, 26 miles is over fast. 18+ years? Not so much. Some days, all I want is to curl up with mindless TV, and guess what? That’s okay! Take breaks, recharge, and know it’s fine to step back when you need it. You’ll come back stronger.
8. Focus on Your Why
Remember why you’re doing this. For me, it’s all about creating a life that allows me to be there for my family while building something meaningful. In 15 years, I won’t look back wishing I spent more time at a desk—I’ll cherish the time I spent building memories. When things get tough, ground yourself in that why and let it guide you.
Ready to Take the Leap, mompreneur?
Thinking of starting a business while you’re pregnant? You’re not alone, and yes, it’s totally possible. It takes planning, patience, and a lot of grace.
You’re going to want a community of supportive moms and women get it, and you. Join us over in BossMom+ to get that exactly.
August 25, 2015
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