The Ultimate Test: Starting a New Business When Welcoming Home a New Baby
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Congratulations on your two new roles: parent and business owner! Both roles are challenging on their own, and they’re even trickier when combined. Here are some tips on how to keep the balance while working on a new business from home and caring for a new baby.
Develop a routine
Control what you can. Create daily and weekly schedules that combine parenting your new baby with starting your business.
Since you’ll have hiccups in the schedule, create a plan for them. The beginning will be the most difficult; for instance, how do you account for 3 a.m. feedings? For this issue, the best formula for a two-parent home is for both parents to split the duties equally. If you’re a single parent, give yourself nap time during the day while the baby sleeps. Never underestimate the importance of sleep because you need it to perform well at both jobs.
Stick to your new routine as closely as possible, but be flexible when things aren’t working. Expect changes. Keep on chugging.
Utilize technology
From bassinets to sleep trackers, there are all kinds of baby gadgets that can make the merging process much easier. Consult friends and family about the kinds of devices they use and what they like and dislike. Make sure you bring up that you’ll be working on your business and need products that will accommodate.
Additionally, there are products for launching your business. You may still be used to outdated tools and processes, but don’t fight against a technology upgrade — it’s there to make your life much easier. Invoice and website creators, payroll distributors, AI assistants, and webinar software are just a few examples of apps and programs to help run your business efficiently.
Be flexible with your idea
Sometimes, the product or service you had in mind doesn’t end up being viable; and sometimes your plan won’t fit in with your new baby’s schedule. Adapt your idea and be flexible. If you planned on starting a restaurant, consider adapting to a food truck. If you were going to do online webinars, opt for a blog instead. Just because it doesn’t look how you planned doesn’t mean your business is any less valuable.
If you really want to be bold, consider going for something brand new. Perhaps instead of candle making, you switch to jewelry making instead. You can design and create your own patterns all while keeping an eye on the baby. If you were going to bake and sell cookies, start a fitness studio. You could even create your own apparel to sell online. All you have to do is create a clothing logo design, customize various items, find the right distributor, and you’re on your way — all from your home office.
Map out your house based on workspace areas
When you work from home with a new baby, it’s all about location, location, location. If you have a home office, try to keep it a reasonable distance from the nursery. Be close enough that you can hear the baby if he or she needs you, but far enough away that sudden outbursts don’t dominate a business call.
You’ll need to create some kind of play space for your child within your office. Be strategic. If you have a lot of video meetings, be sure you can shift your computer so that the play area is out of sight. Make sure your workspace is far enough away from your child’s space that you won’t risk bumping into their crib or playpen as you move.
Ask for help
Running a business while welcoming a new baby is hard work. There’s a chance that you won’t be able to do everything on your own. This may mean delegating more tasks to your coworkers or hiring a professional childcare provider. There’s no shame in asking for help, especially when it comes to the well-being of your child.
The venture ahead of you is a challenging one, but it’s not impossible. Use these tips from Mommies Reviews to keep things under control when bringing a new baby home and starting a new business.
Thank you,
Glenda, Charlie and David Cates
