When you have a baby, you may think it's a bad time to start a business. However, that's not always the case. You can do both simultaneously with a few simple tips from Leslie Campos at Well Parents:
Use a Scheduler
A baby requires a routine schedule, and so will you if you want to work on your business. No matter your type of business, you'll need some kind of schedule. Depending on your preferences, either use your phone's calendar, an online scheduling tool, or a paper calendar/scheduler to keep track of any special dates, such as pediatrician appointments and client meetings.
Besides having your monthly or weekly schedule, you should also have a daily schedule. Ideally, you shouldn't schedule to the nearest minute because, with a baby, skipped naps or unexpected messes can completely change the trajectory of your day. However, you should have a generalized idea of what you need to accomplish each day and an approximate time.
Scheduling Tips
When you're creating a schedule and developing a routine, striking a balance between parenting and work is vital. Let's say you need to schedule a meeting with a client and your child's nap time is usually at 1 p.m., after lunch. Your child's needs will be met, so 1:30 may be a suitable time. On the other hand, you may want to base your child's schedule on your work. If you know you have to be available from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., you may want to make this nap time.
Setting Up a Baby-Friendly Space
You'e going to have times when you need to keep your child occupied while you work. Creating a space in your home that's close to you but far enough away that the baby won't interrupt your work can help.
Set up a safe play space. Place a soft blanket and your child's play mat down in one spot. Have an activity center or baby swing set up in another. Situate a playpen in the room, too.
When you have enough activities to keep your child busy in one room, you can easily move your child from one spot to another to keep them content and stimulated.
Make sure you do thorough baby-proofing of the room before you start this process, and be sure to keep your child within earshot and your field of vision.
Consider Downloading an Entertainment App for Babies
There will be times when nothing much seems to keep your baby content. Apps with children's programming might help keep your baby calm in the event you need quiet time for a conference call. Try the PBS Kids app, which lets the child watch kid-friendly programming.
Establish an LLC
You need to take steps to make your business easier to run, such as forming an LLC. An LLC, or limited liability company, can protect your personal financial future for you and your child.
Additionally, an LLC means you have less paperwork to complete and more flexibility. When it comes to taxes, you can use having an LLC to your advantage.
Business and Parent Success Is Possible
Ensuring your child is entertained and on schedule will help you tremendously. You can also alleviate stress by scheduling and making business management simpler.
Written by Leslie Campos of Wellparents.com
Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko from Pexels