I became a mum in 2020, and I knew it was going to change my world — but I didn’t realise just how much. Not only did it reshape my personal life, but it also shifted everything professionally. I went from well-paid contract work as a Motion Graphics Artist to, suddenly, a mum running a small business from home.
While many people talk about how hard it is to juggle motherhood and business, far fewer mention how becoming a mother can actually strengthen your business skills. In fact, it can transform the way you work, think, and grow.
With that in mind, let’s dive in.
1. Motherhood Rewrote My Priorities (In the Best Way)
Becoming a mum forces you to focus on what truly matters. As a result, because time is so precious now, you start making decisions more quickly and with more intention. In those quiet 2 a.m. feeds, when your mind wanders, you begin to imagine new ideas for your shop or spot a product online that could make a wonderful addition. Before you know it, every small thought feels like a step toward building a brighter future for your family and your business.
2. Time Management Became a Superpower
I’ve always loved planning. At university, my diary was practically glued to my hand, filled with deadlines, colour-coded notes, and weekly targets. That mindset followed me into my career. But when I became a mother, it shifted into full-blown superwoman mode.
The nap-time hustle became my new routine. No time to waste—just a focused sprint to process orders, prep shipments, and squeeze in a cup of tea because even that had to be scheduled. Over time, I streamlined my workflow, simplified my processes, and learned to make every minute count.
Despite having far less time, motherhood made me more effective, not less.
3. I Learned the Power of Saying No
Saying “no” can feel uncomfortable, especially when you’re building a business from scratch. However, motherhood teaches you quickly that boundaries are essential. For instance, saying no to the wrong opportunities clears space for the right ones. Similarly, saying no to overworking protects you from burnout. Ultimately, saying no without guilt keeps both you and your business healthy.
In the end, a mum should never feel bad about setting limits. After all, protecting your energy is just as important as protecting your business.
4. I Became More Creative and Resourceful
A Mum’s life is one big improvisation, and it often sparks the best kind of creativity. Even mums who don’t feel creative constantly come up with clever ways to keep little ones engaged. And sometimes, your child surprises you with the inspiration instead.
One day, my son came home from nursery with the sweetest reindeer painting made with his footprints. It was an instant lightbulb moment—why not turn it into a keepsake? And that’s how my children’s artwork mug product was born.
It’s amazing how everyday moments of motherhood can transform into meaningful business ideas.
5. I Found a New Level of Empathy
Motherhood deepened my understanding of people in a way I had not expected. I became more patient, more compassionate, and more aware of the unseen struggles others might be carrying. It’s easy to judge someone at face value, but motherhood reminds you that everyone has something going on behind the scenes.
This shift made customer interactions more heartfelt and genuine. And in a world where AI is increasingly handling communication, that human touch matters. Listening, empathising, and connecting create a much better experience for the people who support your business.
6. My ‘Why’ Got Bigger
Motherhood brought a new sense of purpose, and inevitably, that spilt into my business.
I won’t go into too much detail here—you can read more about it in my About Us section—but when I couldn’t find work that fit around childcare, I decided to start something of my own. I didn’t want my son to see me without direction or passion. To model ambition, creativity, and independence.
I wanted to show him what it looks like to build something meaningful and take pride to it.
7. Stop Chasing Perfect
I’m a perfectionist by nature. If something doesn’t turn out exactly as I imagined, I feel it deeply. But motherhood taught me that done is better than perfect. My son doesn’t care if the cardboard firehouse I make is flawless—he cares that it exists and that we built it together.
Letting go of perfectionism has helped me grow more quickly, be kinder to myself, and show up with more authenticity. Imperfection became a source of confidence, not a flaw.
8. Community Became a Lifeline
Community truly is everything. While motherhood can feel incredibly isolating, building a business around nap schedules can make you feel even more detached from the outside world. Thankfully, joining several small business communities changed that for me.
Within these groups, there’s one core value everyone shares: support. There’s no competition, no judgment—just connection. Together, we lift each other up, collaborate, and share the load of both business and everyday life. I’m so grateful for the friendships and encouragement I’ve found; in many ways, it’s like having a personal cheerleading squad that always understands the juggle.
Ultimately, there is so much strength in connection.
Conclusion
Motherhood is a life-changing and amazing thing to experience. Not only did it change my life, but it also transformed my business for the better.
So, I encourage you, fellow business mama: focus on your strengths and not your limitations. You are amazing — let the world see it.
Finally, how has parenthood shaped your business journey? Let me know in the comments below.
