Balancing Parenthood and Entrepreneurship
More parents than ever before are considering the possibility of starting their own businesses. With the rise of AI and growing online support for entrepreneurs, the idea of becoming a "parentpreneur" has never been more appealing. But, as with any major decision, starting a business as a parent comes with its own unique set of challenges. So, is it a good idea? Let's explore how it's becoming easier to make money as a solopreneur while balancing the demands of raising young children.
The Rise of the Solopreneur
The concept of the solopreneur—a solo entrepreneur running a one-person business—has grown exponentially in recent years. Thanks to things like building in public and the gig economy, it is easier than ever to start a business from home, set your own schedule, and find income streams that align with your knowledge, passions, and your particular set of skills (we see you Liam Neeson). And for many, it is also becoming a great need to have additional income to spare the expense of rising inflation on just about everything (hello basic needs).
For parents, this shift means they can support their children not only financially, but also in the most valuable way—through their time. This balance is a key motivator for many parents seeking additional income streams. Platforms like Shopify, Etsy, Instagram, and YouTube have made it easier than ever to turn ideas into income, allowing individuals to market and sell directly to consumers—without the need for a physical storefront or hefty upfront investment.
Flexibility is Key
One of the most significant benefits of starting a business as a parent is flexibility. Parents of young children are often looking for ways to balance their career ambitions with the unpredictable and demanding nature of raising little ones. Running your own business offers the ability to set your hours, choose your clients, and work from anywhere. This is especially true for online businesses or freelance careers, where the only real "office" you need is a laptop and an internet connection.
This flexibility can allow you to prioritize family time while still generating income. However, it's important to remember that it's not total freedom. Depending on the path you choose, the promise of abundant time and money can often feel like a mirage. Starting from the ground up in any business is hard work—it requires focus, time, money, and creativity—all of which can feel in short supply when you're juggling the demands of raising a family or preparing to start one.
The reality is that if you're hoping for a quick solution to a lack of family time and income, entrepreneurship—or "parentpreneurship"—is likely not for you. Building a business takes time, patience, and sacrifice, often demanding more hours upfront. It's an important reality to keep in mind when deciding if this path is right for you.
Overcoming the Challenges
Balancing work and family life can be overwhelming, especially in the early stages of building a business. Here are some key factors to consider:
Time Management: Young children require constant attention, which can make it difficult to carve out uninterrupted time to work. Developing a clear and realistic schedule is crucial. Whether it’s batching tasks when the kids are asleep or outsourcing certain jobs, time management will be a skill you'll have to sharpen.
Support System: Building a support network—whether it's a partner, a trusted family member, or a fellow parent—can make all the difference. Having someone to help with childcare or give you a few hours to focus on your business can allow you to stay productive without feeling overwhelmed.
Self-Care: As a parent, it's easy to put your needs last, but self-care is critical for maintaining your energy and focus. Taking care of your mental and physical well-being will help you stay motivated, avoid burnout, and be the best version of yourself for both your family and your business. Whether it's going for a walk, sitting in a coffee shop, or simply carving out a few quiet moments, make sure you prioritize time for yourself.
Financial Uncertainty: Starting a business inevitably comes with financial risk, so it’s crucial to set realistic expectations from the start. Keeping your personal finances separate from your business finances is key. Creating a clear budget, tracking expenses, and saving for leaner months can help prevent the financial strain from becoming overwhelming. While it's often easier to start an online business alongside a current job, that flexibility may not exist with a physical storefront. The goal is to keep costs as low as possible without sacrificing potential revenue—minimizing overhead and maximizing profit wherever you can.
The Bottom Line
Starting a business as a parent is no small feat, but the rewards—both financial and personal—can be well worth the effort. The key is to approach it with realistic expectations, a strong support system, and a willingness to adapt. While challenges like time management and financial uncertainty are real, the ability to create your own schedule and build something meaningful for your family makes it an enticing path.
See how this Mompreneur built a $2 million breakfast revolution.
The barriers to entry have never been lower, and the opportunities have never been greater. Whether you’re launching a side hustle or committing to full-time entrepreneurship, parents today have more tools and resources than ever to succeed. If you’re ready to take the leap, start small, stay flexible, and build a business that works for your life—not the other way around.