ADVICE FROM A MOM BOSS

I’m not talking about myself. These mom bosses I am referring to are the incredible community of supportive working moms I have had the pleasure of corresponding with through social media this year.

When I first came out with my fears of maternity leave on this Instagram post, the response was overwhelming. I mean, Something Navy even commented (not to brag…k fine I’m fully bragging).

When I decided to quit my corporate job to pursue my health and fitness dreams over 3 years, I definitely thought about what that would mean for my mat leave. I knew I wasn’t going to get one if I was my own boss. I also knew that it would be tricky since my career choice as a personal trainer and fitness instructor relied so heavily on my body. At the time, I didn’t consider that a large part of my job could be done with a big belly or at my computer because I didn’t know this whole “blogging” part of it would exist.

I am so grateful for the opportunities I have had and the fact that I can still continue working when Baby Kale arrives. But it’s also really stressful. Since I can work, I want to. It would almost be easier to solely be a trainer and know I can’t physically work for the first little bit. Or be at an office, and be officially “off.” But alas, my decision was made and in a few short weeks, I’ll be a working mom.

Although I’m sure it will get challenging hearing the very strong opinions of other mothers (I have been warned about ‘mom shaming’), one thing I have loved about social media is connecting with so many amazing women who have been exactly where I am right now; in the midst of running their own businesses while simultaneously raising their kids.

While some advice I have been given hasn’t been the most helpful…for example “you have your whole life to work, focus on your baby,” a lot of the tips have been useful and inspiring. So much so, that I thought I would create a sort of list of quotes and advice women have sent to me that have really resonated with me.

I want this post to serve as a reminder or list I can come back to when I feel like I’m failing, when the going gets tough or when I just need a little pick me up.

So here is some inspiration from mom bosses themselves:

• Learning that you can’t do it all is one of the hardest but most necessary lessons.
• Your baby just wants a happy mom.
• The universe gives you what you can handle.
• There is no perfect balance except the perfect balance for you.
• Create your own boundaries.
• Whatever you are choosing to do that in the moment, baby or work, give it your full attention and that’s it.
• Be aware that feelings of guilt will arise. When they do, acknowledge them, tell them you hear them, then kindly say ‘thank you, next.’
• Yes, you will miss out on some regular mom stuff, but the trade off is worth it.
• Give yourself as much ‘work-free’ time as possible.
• Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
• Let go of any expectations.
• The flexibility of being able to make your own schedule will all be worth it as they grow up.
• You can’t be everywhere at once. So wherever you are in that moment, just be present.
• One day at a time.

I hope this list will do for you what I plan on having it do for me: be a source of confidence that, although it is hard, we are on the right path. And nothing worth having ever comes easy.

Thank you again to all of the wonderful women who have reached out.

xoxo