Being self-employed, especially as a parent, can often feel like a double-edged sword. As a self-employed mum, the challenges are uniquely demanding but also incredibly rewarding. One of the key aspects of navigating this journey is effective goal setting – a process I approach with a blend of logic, emotion, and instinct; from my head, my heart and my ‘gut feeling’.

Setting goals in this way allows me to create a clear vision for my business while also reflecting on how I want my life to look. The beauty of being self-employed is the freedom to design your ideal working week. However, this freedom can also feel isolating; it’s just you in the driver’s seat. You have decisions to make about what to tackle yourself and when to outsource tasks, and discovering the most cost-effective and beneficial ways to do this is essential.

For me, goals are not just boxes to be ticked off; they are stepping stones toward a broader vision. They help me get closer to my aspirations without feeling overwhelmed. I break my goals down into 12-week chunks, which makes them significantly more achievable and realistic. This emphasis on the journey rather than the destination has been a game-changer for my mindset.

Recently, I had a wonderful planning session focused on this 12-week year framework. It was a small, intimate gathering with three other mums who are also business owners. Sharing our experiences was not only refreshing but also deeply validating, as we explored the realities of balancing motherhood with entrepreneurship.

We celebrated the flexibility our roles afford us, allowing us to adjust priorities when family emergencies arise. It’s both a blessing and a curse. Yes, I can shift things around when my family needs me, but it may also mean slower growth for my business; a feeling of being held back and maybe missing out on opportunities.

Our discussions revalidated a vital truth: success is not only about reaching the finish line; it’s about the journey we experience along the way. If I can thrive in my business while being present for my children and helping them grow into the amazing individuals I know they’ll become, then I truly consider it a blessing.

The clients I work with remain my priority; I’ve worked hard to make sure that I never let anyone down. Striking a balance that allows me to live with purpose and authenticity is something I cherish. Embracing both the joys and challenges of being a self-employed parent makes this journey worthwhile, reminding me that the pursuit of fulfilment is indeed a beautiful one.

So, fellow self-employed parents, let’s embrace our unique challenges together. By aligning our goals with our visions, we can create fulfilling lives and businesses. After all, it’s not just about the destination; it’s about how we navigate this amazing journey that we have chosen.

And the added benefit? We get to be role models to our kids – boys and girls – of a world where being successful and being a parent are not, after all, mutually exclusive.