This sucky sucky feeling will appear (over and over) as you get used to becoming a working mother. Because #havingitall is a myth. Balance is a myth. You learn to redefine productivity, reorganize priorities, and centralize the wins that pre-baby might no have seemed like a big deal.
Don’t get me wrong, there is plenty of joy in there!
But the hard days…they feel really really hard when both a small human and a business depend on you for their survival. Add postpartum hormones to the mix and now we’re really cooking up a recipe for overwhelm.
So, when that feeling comes reeling, take a breath. Here’s 6 things you can do.
1. Take a day off
Yes, this really is an option! (in your business at least, not so much for motherhood) Instead of failure, reframe this as a day for a creative pause. Surrender to the overwhelm. Choose a day of being, instead of doing.
2. Pick one thing to complete from your long list of tasks
Ask yourself – does it all really have to be done today? What is the top priority? And reschedule the rest. Work on that one thing. Focused work can be overwhelm’s worst enemy.
3. Hire a coach
In the midst of chaos, it can be great to have someone telling what to do to reach your goals. Add paying them to do so can be all the inspiration you need to just keep on pushing.
4. Increase childcare hours
Sometimes, you just need more time. Not just 15 minute increments here and there, but quality uninterrupted work time. Schedule a babysitter for a few days in a row, or an extra day for a few weeks. Again, spending money can light a fire under your ass!
5. Join a mastermind for mamas
You are not the only one wondering what has become of your first baby (your business). We all face fears of not being able to handle both entrepreneurship and parenthood, losing passion or energy, or simple time. That’s why there are masterminds created just for this season of life and business – halleluyah!
6. Call business friends (with babies) for a pep talk
Key phrase here is to call a friend who also has a baby! Camaraderie can be a major motivator and having someone who can listen without judgement as you pour out your heart may be just what you need to get unstuck.
The overarching theme? One foot after the other. Focus on what you need in the moment to make it through that day. Rally those around you for support.
Want more resources about postpartum business? Check out Chapter 9 of The Expecting Entrepreneur.
