Running a small business can be both liberating and challenging, especially for new parents. With the flexibility to choose when and where you work comes the responsibility of juggling deadlines alongside the demands of parenthood.
Since becoming a parent in 2021, I have experienced first-hand the benefits and challenges of freelancing as a new mum. So, I wanted to offer some tips to those considering this option and share how I maintain a healthy work-life balance.
Benefit 1: Create your own schedule
In the world of freelancing, the freedom to craft your own schedule extends beyond the traditional constraints of a 9-to-5 workday. This means that as a new parent, you can tailor your work hours to coincide with your child’s routine, whether it’s during those precious childcare hours, the tranquility of nap time, or the calmness that settles in after your little one has *finally* succumbed to bedtime. This flexibility not only ensures that you can meet your professional commitments but also allows for the seamless integration of work into the natural flow of your family life.
Benefit 2: Work from home
The ability to earn a living without leaving the house is appealing to a large number of people, but particularly to new parents. Because freelancing removes the requirement of making a daily commute, you will have more time to spend with your child. This also means that your child will spend more time at home, which, coupled with the fact that they will be in their familiar surroundings, can make for an atmosphere that is suitable for both successful work and fulfilling family life.
Benefit 3: Increased family time
In comparison to working in a conventional office setting, freelancing may give you the opportunity to spend more time with your child in meaningful ways. When your workspace is only a few steps away from the family area, it makes taking short breaks to play or share a meal with your family much simpler. It may take willpower to head back to the workspace, but it also makes finishing work even more rewarding when you can dive right back into playtime.
Challenge 1: Creating a structured routine
It is very easy to get distracted from your work when freelancing as a new parent. Even if you have childcare, it can be tempting to check in with them instead of cracking on. That is why it is essential to establish a routine for your work life as well as your family life. The chaos can be brought under control with the help of a straightforward schedule that allocates certain times for activities involving work and the family. And you may be surprised at how quickly your child gets into the swing of the daily routine.
Challenge 2: Communication with your partner
In a two-parent household, effective communication about workloads is essential. Find a balance by alternating responsibilities, allowing both parents to contribute to both work and childcare. My partner works office hours in a high-pressure job, but as a freelancer, my schedule is more flexible – so I take care of the school run unless I have a meeting. In the evening, we alternate who does bedtime and who does the household chores, and this works really well for us.
Challenge 3: Maintaining work-life balance
Freelancers often find it challenging to draw a clear line between work and personal life. Strive for a healthy work-life balance by setting boundaries and making time for both professional and personal pursuits. Personally, I work three days a week, spend two days one-on-one with my daughter, then weekends are family time. I am now strict with myself about my working hours, whereas you may have caught me sending the odd email on a Saturday in my pre-child days!
TL;DR
Freelancing as a new parent comes with its unique set of joys and challenges. Embracing flexibility, effective communication, and a mindful work-life balance can transform the freelancing journey into a fulfilling experience. Remember, you’re doing your best, and finding that balance is an ongoing process. Cherish the moments with your little one, and don’t forget to carve out time for yourself amidst the hustle and bustle of freelancing and parenting.
