Balancing motherhood and running a business is a journey of constant juggling. As moms, we wear many hats—homemaker, caretaker, nurse chef, teacher, and for some of us, business owner. While the hustle to provide for our families is fulfilling, it can come with the nagging feeling of “mom guilt.” That familiar tug at your heart when you’re answering emails instead of playing with your kids, or when you miss a milestone because you’re managing a deadline. Mom guilt is real, but it’s also something we can navigate with a little grace and strategy.
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Mama In Trades
I know firsthand the emotional weight of balancing motherhood and trade business. As a mom running a laser/CNC business, a graphic design venture, and more, I always feel pressure to meet work demands while being present for my children. But over time, I’ve found ways to ease the guilt and live in the moment with my family. Here’s how:
Embrace Imperfection
Let’s start with this: perfection is a myth. Your kids don’t need a perfect mom; they need a present one. Some days you’ll crush it at work, and other days, the laundry will be in piles and the dinner will be waffles. (My 3-year-old’s favorite food…) That’s okay. The more I let go of the pressure to “do it all,” the more I can focus on what really matters—being there for my kids in meaningful ways.
Tip: Set realistic expectations for yourself. Understand that you are one person doing the job of many, and it’s okay to have off days.
Create Boundaries Between Work and Family Time
When you’re running a business, it’s easy to let work bleed into every part of your day. I’ve found that setting clear work hours helps me create boundaries. When it’s work time, I’m all in. When it’s family time, I shut down the laptop, put my phone away, and focus on my kids.
Tip: Set a specific time each day to clock out from work, and honor that time for your family. Even an hour of focused, uninterrupted time with your kids can go a long way.
Communicate With Your Kids
Even young kids can understand that mommy has responsibilities. One thing I’ve learned is the power of explaining why I’m working. It helps them see the bigger picture—that I’m working to provide for our family and create something meaningful. When they understand that work isn’t just something taking me away from them but something that benefits them, it softens the guilt.
Tip: Use age-appropriate language to share with your kids what your work means to you and why it’s important. Let them in on the journey!
Incorporate Your Kids Into Your Work Life
Depending on the nature of your business, bringing your kids into your work process can be fun and engaging. Whether it’s helping pack orders, organizing materials, or offering creative input, allowing your kids to be a part of your business makes them feel included and valued.
Tip: Set up a small “workspace” for your kids near yours. They can color, do crafts, or play pretend business, while you handle the real thing. (This is also very beneficial to them at a young age to start having an entrepreneur mindset from the beginning.)
Practice Self-Compassion
Mom guilt often stems from feeling like you’re not doing enough in either role—mom or business owner. The truth is, you’re probably doing more than enough. Be kind to yourself. When the guilt creeps in, take a step back and recognize the incredible work you’re doing to balance everything.
Tip: Create a habit of self-reflection. Take five minutes at the end of each day to remind yourself of the positives—what you accomplished at work and how you connected with your kids. Celebrate the small wins!
Be Fully Present in Small Moments
You don’t need hours of time to make a big impact on your kids. I’ve learned that even small, focused moments matter. A 15-minute game, a cuddle before bed, or a quick walk outside can be enough to create a lasting memory.
Tip: When you’re with your kids, be fully there—no phones, no distractions. Those little moments of presence are what they’ll remember most.
Get Help and Delegate
If you’re a business owner, it’s easy to feel like you have to do it all. But asking for help or delegating tasks can free up more time for your family. Whether it’s hiring a virtual assistant, automating some of your processes, or relying on family members for support, lightening your load can help you balance your roles better.
Tip: Identify areas in your business that could be outsourced or streamlined. Your time is valuable, and sometimes investing in help is worth the peace of mind.
Fill Your Own Cup
You can’t pour from an empty cup. To be the best mom and business owner, you have to take care of yourself too. Whether it’s a 10-minute coffee break, a workout, or some quiet time reading Scripture and praying, filling your own cup helps you show up better for your family.
Tip: Schedule small moments of self-care throughout the week. Even just a few minutes can make a difference in your energy and mindset.
Balancing motherhood and business ownership is a challenge, but it’s also an incredible opportunity to show your kids what hard work, determination, and love look like. Mom guilt will come and go, but by being intentional and giving yourself grace, you can create a rhythm that allows you to thrive in both roles.
Remember: You’re not just raising a business; you’re raising a family. And that’s the most important work of all.
How do you manage mom guilt while running a business? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear your tips and experiences!
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