Welcome back to Refine’s four-part series on mothers who work (isn’t that every mom?).

It’s becoming more and more of a conversation about whether or not moms should work, or more specifically, what kind of work mothers should dedicate their time to. As a working mom myself, I find these conversations a bit fatiguing; whatever our personal opinions, the reality is that all moms work, whether their work takes them outside the domestic sphere or not. 

In hopes of shedding some light on this reality, this four-part series goes beyond the “yes or no” debate and takes us into the daily lives and discernment of mothers in their work, providing those wondering what their own life might look like with the information they actually need: the “how.” In this installment, I wanted to talk to women who have created their own businesses that dovetail with their responsibilities at home.

What is a ‘mompreneur’? Starting a business working from home

In the midst of the “stay at home” versus “working” mom binary—which many women don’t fit neatly into—there are mothers who choose to create their own working opportunities from the ground up. Whether it’s running a business full-time or selling creations on Etsy, “mompreneurs” give a different lens into how mothers spend their time balancing home and paid work. 

I spoke to a few women in my life who have successfully combined motherhood and entrepreneurship, hence “mompreneur”. They pursue a variety of ventures: one is a writer with a popular online publication, one owns a local business, and another owns an online store. While there are differences in the demands of each of their businesses, they all have a spirit of ingenuity and creativity in common. 

Working moms who start businesses: Meet inspiring mompreneurs

Lindsey, the writer, began blogging in the mid-2010’s and switched her writing over to Substack a couple of years ago. She has a steady list of dedicated subscribers who look forward to her articles, which she carefully researches and writes about twice a month. “I love the way it challenges me, in a way my life as a mother doesn’t,” she shares. “Motherhood definitely requires creativity, but writing brings out a side of me that I really value.” 

Nina, who owns a local business with her husband, says something similar: “I find fulfillment in both my job and in my motherhood. To me, they are inseparable and fused together.”

Lexi owns an online Etsy shop, selling original art and design work. She loves the outlet it allows her, but is also grateful for the example of work ethic she can show her kids. “To me, my work is an opportunity to teach my kids how to be dedicated to something they love and see a project through,” she says.

Inspiration and planning: Keys to a successful work from home business for moms

Businesses have demands, especially for those at the helm. These three women balance the demands of “mompreneuring” differently, but with equal levels of care, especially where their children are involved. 

“I learned I needed to have boundaries around my writing time, especially since it’s on my computer,” says Lindsey. “I have dedicated work blocks where I can research and write articles. If inspiration strikes, I keep a small notebook with me most of the time so I can physically write it down without pulling out a device.” 

Nina finds a family calendar to be the best tool for keeping priorities in order. “We live and die by our family calendar,” she says. “It hangs in our kitchen and every member of our family has a color. We write down what’s on everybody’s plate, and that way we can all find ways to support and serve each other.”

Why starting a business is worth the risks

For all three, the challenge of creating their own opportunities has been well worth the risks, challenges, and even setbacks. “I think every mom, no matter what we choose to do with our time or how many kids we have, needs projects that give her life,” Lexi says. “My business is that for me. It’s been worth it for many reasons, but the life it gives me is the top one. I’m a better mom because I’ve been able to create in this way.”

Nina encourages other moms to explore where they might be able to create meaningful business opportunities for themselves. “I pray a lot about what my gifts are, and how God wants me to use them. Right now, my business is a wonderful place to do that. I think all moms have unique gifts—God could surprise them with where He calls them to use them!”

Love this article? Find Part I here and Part II here!