Sound familiar?
The Battle of Guilt: Business vs. Family
As a woman entrepreneur, you love your business. You want to build something significant, something that represents you, your creativity, and your passion. But along the way, there’s this constant tug-of-war in your heart. You’re deeply committed to your family—your children, your spouse, your parents—and you want to be present for them too.
Yet, the truth is, pursuing your business requires time, focus, and energy. And the harsh reality? You can’t be everywhere at once. That’s where guilt creeps in—feeling like you’re letting someone down because you’re not there 100% of the time.
The thing is, I’ve been there. Some days, I’m still there. But I’ve learned how to navigate through this, and you can too.
Reframe the Guilt
The guilt stems from a perception that we must choose between success and family. But here’s the secret: it’s not about choosing—it’s about trust and self-worth. You don’t need to fit into society’s predefined boxes of what it means to be a “good mother” or “good wife.” You are the queen of your life. And queens make their own rules.
Imagine a day where you’re bursting with creative energy and are eager to dive into your business. Then, your child looks at you with big eyes and says, “Mom, please don’t go.” Or your partner says, “Can’t we spend some time together instead?” It’s heartbreaking because you want to be there for them. But at the same time, you need to go to work, not just for money, but to feel alive, to fulfill your purpose.
Here’s where you need to shift your mindset.
How Serving Yourself Serves Them
The key to navigating these tough emotional moments lies in understanding that you need to be fulfilled to give fully to others. To be the best version of yourself for your family, you must allow yourself to pursue your dreams, guilt-free.
When you’re thriving in your business, you are inspiring your children and your loved ones. You’re showing them, through action, that it’s possible to have it all. You are teaching them that they don’t have to choose between career success and a happy family life. This is an invaluable lesson that they will carry with them.
Plus, when you’re not there, guess what? Your family is building stronger relationships with others—be it your spouse, their grandparents, or a close friend. The time apart allows your loved ones to bond in ways that might not happen if you were there constantly.
You Define Your Balance
Forget the conventional “work-life balance” advice that says you have to work 9-to-5, Monday to Friday, and be with your family on the weekends. Balance doesn’t mean following a cookie-cutter schedule—it means creating a life that works for you.
Want to work on Saturday nights and spend Monday mornings with your kids? Do it! Your schedule is yours to create and adjust based on your needs and priorities. There’s no one-size-fits-all.
You’re allowed to rewrite the rules—change your schedule as life demands, and give yourself the flexibility to evolve as your priorities shift. What matters most is that you feel aligned and fulfilled. That’s how you serve your business, your family, and most importantly, yourself.
Be the Example
It’s important to recognize that children learn from what they see, not just what you tell them. When you show them that you’re dedicated to your business and still there for them, you’re teaching them by example. You’re showing them that it’s possible to live a life where dreams aren’t compromised, and neither is family.
When you show up for your business, you’re also showing up for them. And that makes you not only an entrepreneur but an inspiration.
Let Go of the “Perfect Balance”
The guilt you feel? It’s part of the process of breaking free from societal expectations. But here’s the thing: the perfect balance is an illusion. What’s real is finding your balance, one that lets you be the best version of yourself in all areas of your life.
Remember, when you’re fulfilled—when you’re living out your purpose and building the life you want—you come home with energy, gratitude, and love. You become a better mother, a better partner, and a better friend. Because you’re not drained, you’re not resentful—you’re empowered.
So, if you want to dive deeper into learning how to build your business and live your dream life without sacrificing your family or yourself, sign up for my mentorship program. Together, we’ll craft a plan that serves your business, your family, and most importantly, you.
Until next time, stay strong, stay ambitious, and remember—you can have it all.