10 Lessons I’ve Learned as a Mompreneur & Blogger
Tags: Blogger, Business, Entrepreneur, Mom, Mompreneur, The Work at Home Woman, Woman, Work at Home, Work-Life Balance
Posted in Business Information, Time Management 
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By Holly Reisem Hanna
I have been working at home for two years, and blogging for one, and during this time I have learned a ton of valuable lessons and insight as a mompreneur.
I always enjoy it when others share their wisdom with me, so here are my 10 lessons that I have learned as a mompreneur.
Don’t Be Obsessed with the Numbers. As a blogger and mompreneur I am constantly checking and monitoring my numbers; how many Twitter followers do I have? How many Facebook Fans do I have? How many page views did I receive today?!? It can really drive you nuts and create a ton of self doubt, especially if your stats start to go down. Let it go, focus on creating quality content and cultivating relationships, when you do something that you love the rest will fall into place.
Watch Who Your Friends With. In the past I worked at establishment where the majority of the employees were unhappy and disgruntled, needless to say this negativity rubbed off on me. Hang around positive and inspiring people, the energy that they emit is infectious and when you hang around the right people you will find yourself feeling motivated and empowered. Can’t leave your current job? Try joining a business group, women’s self renewal group or attending a blogging conference, this will give you the boost and energy that you need to stay upbeat through the difficult and trying times.
Keep Learning. In her book, The Chic Entrepreneur, Elizabeth Gordon suggests reading a new business book every month. When I first had my daughter I thought I was too busy to read a new book every month, but when I took her advice, I found that you can find the time – you just need to make it. Cut out a little TV watching, read while you’re waiting for appointments. I like to take my books in the car so that I can read while my husband is driving. Learning exercises your brain and helps get those creative juices flowing.
Enjoy the Simple Things in Life. Remember to cherish the simple things in life; a great way to do this is to keep a notebook and write down the small occurrences that make you smile. One of those times for me, was when I went to the Texas Conference for Women and was talking to a woman who I had never met before. When she asked me what I did, she said, “I know The Work at Home Woman – I love that site”, it made me feel like a million dollars. It’s the little moments like this that enrich our lives and make us feel special, remember them by writing them down.
Go Outdoors Everyday. Being a work at home mom, there are days that I just feel trapped and isolated. When I start feeling this way I know it’s time to get outdoors. Whether it’s sipping some coffee on my deck, playing in the sandbox with my daughter, or going for walk being out in the fresh air always makes me feel refreshed and renewed.
Love. Do what you love and surround yourself with the people that you love. Life is way too short to spend 40 hours a week in job that you hate, or around people that make your skin crawl.
Take Care of Yourself. Good health, you don’t appreciate it until it’s gone. I know this because this past fall myself, my mom and my sister all went through some health issues and let me tell you, if you don’t have your health the world turns upside down. Take care of your health, eat right, exercise, schedule regular check ups and be kind to your body. You only have one life, why not make the best you possibly can.
Get Rid of the Guilt. Guilt is a terrible feeling and it is totally useless. Moms feel it because they work outside the home, they feel it because they stay at home, and other women feel it because they decide not to have children, it is a vicious cycle, let it go. Live your life knowing that you’re doing what’s right for you and because of the choices you’ve made you’re the best possible person you can be!
Vocalize Your Appreciation. Let the special people if your life know how much you appreciate them, it will make their day.
Everything in Moderation. Extremes in any direction are not a good thing, live your life in moderation.
What lessons have you learned as a work at home woman, blogger or mompreneur? I look forward to your comments!
Happy Friday!
9 Responses to “10 Lessons I’ve Learned as a Mompreneur & Blogger”
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February 5th, 2010 at 10:03 am
I’ve been ‘engineering’ a home jewelry design business in, around and in spite of my family (in an effort to stay sane) for the last 4 years. What I’ve learned is that there are never enough hours in the day!! so to continue the sanity theme I’ve learned to prioritise in every aspect of my working day, whether it’s housework, business or ‘me time’. I’m still learning but I’m now nicely poised to capitalise on my son attending fulltime schooling – I feel like I’ve almost completed my apprenticeship!
PS: i’m a recent follower – love the blog!
.-= ebbandflo´s last blog ..(almost) wordless wednesday =-.
February 5th, 2010 at 8:54 pm
“Hang around positive and inspiring people, the energy that they emit is infectious and when you hang around the right people you will find yourself feeling motivated and empowered.” Enough said right there, Holly.
February 6th, 2010 at 6:01 am
I really appreciate that your list focused on the mental side of your business. When I’m not in a good place, all of my great ideas have to wait around for me to get in gear. It’s funny that running a business seems to be all about doing but it’s success is mostly about a solid mindset.
Trish
http://www.yourhomebusinessroadmap.com
February 6th, 2010 at 11:27 am
Hi Trish,
I totally agree – success is a mindset! If you don’t believe in yourself, it will show through, and how can others believe in you when you don’t yourself?
Have a great weekend,
Holly
February 6th, 2010 at 11:30 am
Thanks for the comments ladies!
I have to prioritize too. Everyday I create a daily to-do list and start with the most important task first. Email and social networking usually are at the bottom.
Holly
February 7th, 2010 at 5:56 pm
Profound lessons Holly, thank you for sharing. I love learning from people, which is where I get my inspiration. I think it’s very important to be a student of life, with an open mind and can-do attitude. Learning new things keeps you growing & evolving.
Health is big for me. A couple years ago, I unexpectedly became the primary caregiver for my cancer-stricken sister whom unfortunately did not beat cancer. For the first time in my life, I was up close & personal to death. Long-story-short… I learned many life lessons–we’re here to serve, support, but the most important was, at the end, what matters truly is that you’ve loved and that you were loved. I didn’t know it until her passing, but caring for her was a gift. As painful & devastating as it was to see her wither, I’m grateful and humbled she entrusted me to help her through her biggest challenge of her life.
Thank you again for sharing your lessons. Many will be touched by them.
February 8th, 2010 at 9:13 am
Thanks Ros for sharing your touching story!
It’s so true we are all here to help each other out; relationships are what matter most in life. It is the special moments we spend and give that we remember not the material things in life.
Have a great week,
Holly
February 8th, 2010 at 3:37 pm
Hi Holly,
Beautiful thoughts and advice! We’ve both learned a lot in the past eight years that we have known each other. Glad that you are sharing it. That is what life is about: learning and sharing. And being around people who appreciate personal growth. Simple, yet so powerful.
I love what you are doing. Keep up the hard work on your site and in life! You’ve earned all the kudos you are getting.
Happy Monday!
Heather
February 8th, 2010 at 4:13 pm
Thank you Heather – you’re so sweet!
Life is about sharing & caring and learning & growing. I’m glad that I have you in my network or friends and that we can support each other!
Have a great week,
Holly