Being a boss mom means building your own business while also raising your children. It can be deeply rewarding, but let's be real—it’s also tough and full of ups and downs. It’s okay to feel overwhelmed sometimes—every mom who runs a business feels this way at some point. At Wolf Mothers, we understand exactly how challenging it can be to balance running a business and raising children because we’re doing it every day. In this article, we’ll talk honestly about the struggles you might face and offer simple, practical tips to help you overcome them. You’re not alone—we’re here to help you succeed in your journey as both a mom and an entrepreneur.
Top 5 Common Challenges of Being a Boss Mom
Those are the challenges I see running my own business. Remember, facing these challenges doesn’t mean you're failing—it simply means you're human, and you're doing something brave.
Here’s a quick overview of what we’ll cover:
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Constantly juggling between business tasks and childcare
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Dealing with mompreneur guilt
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Staying productive despite interruptions
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Handling financial pressure and uncertainty
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Taking care of yourself and avoiding burnout
Let's start exploring each one in detail.
Challenge #1: Constantly Juggling Between Business Tasks and Childcare
When you're a mom running her own business your life can feel like an endless balancing act. You might find yourself replying to emails while making breakfast or joining business meetings with your toddler playing nearby. While multitasking might seem necessary, it can also leave you feeling exhausted and less effective in both your business and family life.
Practical tips to help you:
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Set clear priorities every morning: Write down 3–5 key tasks that you must accomplish, then ask yourself about how much impact completing them would make and commit to finish the most impactful one.
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Block specific work and family times: Set clear work hours and dedicated family times. Explain this schedule clearly to your family and clients or partners
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Ask for support and delegate: Don’t be afraid to ask your partner, friends, or family members for help. Consider outsourcing small business tasks if possible.
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Be flexible and kind to yourself: Understand that plans sometimes change. Adjust when needed and remember it's okay not to get everything perfect. Neither as business owner nor as a Mom.
Challenge #2: Dealing with Mompreneur Guilt
Guilt is something many boss moms carry quietly. You might feel guilty for spending time on your business instead of with your kids—or for not giving your business “enough” because of family needs. This emotional rollercoaster can wear you down and make you question your choices, even when you’re doing your very best.
Here’s what can help:
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Remember your “why”: You’re building something meaningful—for yourself and your family. Write it down and keep it where you can see it. Maybe as screen saver in your phone?
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Talk about your guilt openly: Share your feelings with other mom entrepreneurs (like in the Wolf Mothers community). You’ll quickly see you’re not alone.
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Redefine what “enough” means: Your presence, love, and care are enough. And building a business step by step is more than okay.
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Show your kids what’s possible: Being a mom and an entrepreneur sends a powerful message to your children—that it’s okay to dream big and work for what you believe in.
Challenge #3: Staying Productive Despite Interruptions
As a boss mom, your workflow is rarely uninterrupted. A quiet moment to work can suddenly turn into an emergency, a phone call from school/kindergarden, or a little one climbing into your lap. While flexibility is part of this journey, constant interruptions can make it hard to focus, plan ahead, or feel like you’re making real progress.
Here are some ways to stay productive—even on chaotic days:
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Use small time pockets wisely: Even 15–30 minute windows can be powerful. Have a “quick tasks” list ready for moments when you get short bursts of time.
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Work in themed blocks: Try grouping similar tasks (like writing, admin, or calls) into one part of the day to avoid constantly switching gears.
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Set boundaries gently but clearly: If your children are old enough, let them know when you need “focus time”—and celebrate together when it's over!
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Have a flexible weekly plan: Plan your most important tasks for times you usually get quiet (nap time, early morning, etc.), but allow wiggle room for surprises.
Challenge #4: Handling Financial Pressure and Uncertainty
Starting and growing your own business while raising a family often comes with a heavy dose of financial stress. You might worry about bringing in enough income, covering childcare, or investing in your business without risking your family’s stability. These worries are real—and very common among mompreneurs.
Here’s how to ease the pressure and feel more in control:
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Start small and stay steady: You don’t need to do everything at once. Build your business step by step, and keep your costs low in the beginning.
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Know your numbers: Even if you’re not “a numbers person,” having a simple overview of your income and expenses can help you make better decisions and sleep better at night.
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Create a basic financial cushion: Try to set aside even a small amount as an emergency fund—it adds peace of mind and flexibility.
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Look for support: There are grants, scholarships, and programs designed to support moms and women in business. Ask in the Wolf Mothers network—someone may know just the thing.
Challenge #5: Taking Care of Yourself and Avoiding Burnout
When you’re building a business and raising children, your own needs often come last. Many business moms feel like they have to be “on” all the time—working, parenting, planning, giving. But without rest and care, burnout can creep in silently, leaving you tired, unmotivated, or even sick. Taking care of yourself isn’t selfish—it’s essential for both your business and family.
Here are simple ways to look after your own wellbeing:
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Schedule rest like a meeting: Block out time in your calendar to do nothing, read a book, take a walk, or just breathe. Rest isn’t a luxury—it’s part of your job.
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Say no more often: You don’t need to do everything. Practice saying no to tasks or invites that drain your energy or don’t serve your current priorities.
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Create a “recharge list”: Write down small things that make you feel good—like a warm cup of tea, a 10-minute stretch, or a phone call with a friend. Use this list when you feel overwhelmed.
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Find your village: Connect with others who get it. Share your highs and lows in a safe space like the Wolf Mothers community.
Being a boss mom is not about doing everything perfectly—it’s about showing up with heart, even on the messy days. The challenges you face are real, but so is your strength. Whether you’re just starting out or growing something you’ve built with love, remember this: you’re not alone. Every step you take matters, and it’s okay to grow at your own pace.
At Wolf Mothers, we believe in the power of women supporting women. When we share our stories, lift each other up, and get honest about what’s hard—we all rise together. You’re already doing something amazing by choosing this path.
Keep going. We’re right here with you.
Looking for more?
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Come join us at our next Wolf Mothers event—online or in-person. It’s a space for real conversations, warm connections, and meaningful support from women just like you.
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