Mompreneurs Talk About Overcoming Business Challenges and Personal Growth
Mother's Day
Being a mom is a full-time job. In today's busy world, moms take on another role as entrepreneurs, balancing motherhood duties with building businesses. However, juggling between these two roles does not come without challenges. But as we rightly believe, moms are supermoms and they can do anything.
Holding onto this thought, this Mother's Day, StartupTalky connected with some inspiring mompreneurs to get insights into their experiences. We asked them about the challenges they faced as a mother growing their business and how they overcame them. Plus, they also shared insights that not only helped their businesses grow but also led to personal growth.
Prity Kumar, Group Managing Director, Alphard Group
Maithreye Murali, Founder & CEO, MiracleMe
Aditi Talwar, Co-Founder, Green Grapes Diagnostics
Sahana Rai, Founder & CEO, Glocal Brand Solutions
Pallavi Goorha Kashyup, Founder & CEO, PG Communication
Nikita Bachani, CEO & Founder, Alkymi Media
Jaya Bhura, Co-Founder and Director of Chakraview Solutions
Digisha Shah, PR & Brand Consultant and Founder of DSPR
Bindya Talluri, Founder, Bindt Beauty
Pallavi Jha, MD and Chairperson, Walchand PeopleFirst Limited and Dale Carnegie Training
Richa Malhan, CEO & Founder Rcube Hospitality
Chanda Singh, CEO, XP&D
Archana Khosla Burman, Founder Partner, Vertices Partners
Gunjita Singhal, Co-Founder & CMO, Cafe & Club Roadies | Roadies Gyms
Gauri Varma, Chef, Founder G Patisserie / Confect
Payal Nambiar, Founder and CEO, B Square
Prity Kumar, Group Managing Director, Alphard Group
As a woman entrepreneur and a mother in the maritime business, I've encountered many unique challenges on my journey. Indeed balancing the demands of motherhood with the responsibilities of growing a business has undoubtedly presented its share of obstacles. One significant challenge I faced was allocating time effectively between my family and the demands of running a business.
Overcoming this challenge required careful planning, prioritization, and the willingness to delegate tasks at home and in the workplace. By establishing clear boundaries and maximizing productivity during dedicated work hours, I ensured that my family and my business received the attention they deserved.
Another challenge I encountered was overcoming societal expectations and stereotypes within the male-dominated maritime industry. Being a woman in a leadership position often meant facing skepticism and resistance from some quarters. However, I saw these challenges as opportunities for growth and empowerment. By staying true to my vision, demonstrating competence, and earning the respect of my peers through hard work and determination, I overcame these obstacles. I carved out my niche in the industry.
In navigating these challenges, I've gained valuable insights that have strengthened my business and contributed to my personal growth. Firstly, I've learned the importance of resilience and adaptability in adversity. Every challenge has allowed me to learn, grow, and emerge stronger than before. Secondly, I've come to appreciate the power of collaboration and teamwork. By surrounding myself with a supportive network of colleagues, mentors, and family members, I've been able to overcome obstacles and achieve success.
Furthermore, being a mother has taught me invaluable lessons in leadership, empathy, and time management, all of which have translated into tangible benefits for my business. As a mother, I've learned to lead by example, demonstrating the importance of integrity, perseverance, and compassion in my personal and professional life. Being a mother has also instilled in me a sense of purpose and determination that has fueled my entrepreneurial endeavors.
While being a mother and growing a business simultaneously presents its challenges, it has also been a gratifying and enriching experience. By embracing these challenges as prospects for growth, learning, and empowerment, I've strengthened both my business and personal development, achieving success on my terms and inspiring others to do the same.
Maithreye Murali, Founder & CEO, MiracleMe
It requires that one is disciplined in time management alongside growing the business. I normally wake up at 5 a.m., and for sure, the first hour belongs to me. That is the time I do exercise and meditations. After that, I woke the baby up. We normally create quality time for the baby in the morning since that is the time we bond more with her. From leaving home by 9 a.m., kick-starting the workday to nights that offer a quiet window for focused work after putting my daughter to bed, there are sacrifices.
But then again, there is always that very strong support system from family and team members. It is going to be detailed scheduling, setting up clear boundaries, and effective delegation. So I balance nurturing my child and the growth of my brand by being focused on the priorities and leverage support.
Aditi Talwar, Co-Founder, Green Grapes Diagnostics
As a mompreneur, balancing the demands of motherhood with scaling a business poses unique challenges of its own. Looking after a 9-year-old and a 1-year-old requires thorough planning and organization. However, one of the major hurdles that I encounter is ‘time management,’ as juggling childcare responsibilities with work commitments can be overwhelming. To overcome this, prioritizing tasks, delegating when possible, and setting boundaries are essential.
Another challenge is guilt—feeling split between family and business obligations. To overcome this involves recognizing that self-care is equally crucial for both personal and professional success. Embracing support, whether through family, friends, or support staff has helped to alleviate guilt and provide valuable guidance. Moreover, maintaining focus amidst distractions is vital.
Creating a dedicated workspace, and establishing a routine including at least 30-45 minutes of exercise has also helped separate work, family life, and personal life; Fostering productivity and personal development. Ultimately, embracing flexibility is key. Accepting that not every day will go as planned and being adaptable to change strengthens both business and personal growth.
Sahana Rai, Founder & CEO, Glocal Brand Solutions
Being a mother and an entrepreneur means having two babies simultaneously. Both demand your time, attention, and love, which they can't flourish without. I realized that if you don’t keep your mind and emotions in check, both get impacted badly. For instance, there have been times when I had to miss my child's school event due to a business meeting, or when I had to cancel a client call because my child was sick.
These situations can be emotionally challenging, but I've learned to navigate them. When it comes to the team, they will take it personally, and at home, your kids will be impacted. So, it is important to be aware of this responsibility, and be mindful of this. I follow a simple rule at both places: if I am having a bad day for various reasons, I avoid talking to my team and at home with my kids, too. For me, the best solution on my bad days is to sleep it out. I try to sleep early on a bad day, which works like a charm for me each time. Setting clear boundaries between work and personal life is crucial to maintaining a healthy balance.
Subham Kumar
Pallavi Goorha Kashyup, Founder & CEO, PG Communication
As a mother growing my business, I bumped into unique challenges that tested my ability to balance professional ambitions with the responsibilities of motherhood. One significant snag was accommodating my daughter, Ananya, during business meetings. Initially, it was challenging to manage her needs while maintaining a professional demeanour. However, I formulated strategies such as arranging for a maid to accompany us during meetings and ensuring my daughter Ananya was contented and engaged. Furthermore, working from home for the first five years permitted me to be present for Ananya while still evolving my career.
Overcoming these challenges required flexibility, creativity, and effective time management. I learned to integrate motherhood into my professional life, turning obstacles into opportunities for growth. This experience strengthened my ability to multitask, problem-solve, and prioritize effectively, both in business and personal realms. Moreover, it instilled in me a sense of resilience and determination to succeed despite obstacles.
Nikita Bachani, CEO & Founder, Alkymi Media
My biggest challenge was to be able to cope up with guilt. And by guilt, not just mom guilt but entrepreneur guilt. To be available for both your baby and your business and team. I realised that some days it was ok to give more importance to one of the roles, that one needed more time and attention. Just like your child, your business too is your baby and requires your time. The guilt was inner conversation. I realised I did not have to super woman, I just needed to be myself to be able to give both the roles my best.
How I overcame the challenge was to have a positive conversation with myself, made a schedule that worked for both. Also, I was vocal where I needed help and support and it wonderful how the family and my team at work supported. It was ok to ask for help. Delegate and outsource help wherever possible that can make your job easy. In the end make sure you are not mentally exhausted.
Jaya Bhura, Co-Founder and Director of Chakraview Solutions
Raising a startup with raising kids posed came with its own challenges; even with a supportive family network, those initial adjustments were tough. However, it came about as personal victory, a self gratification as a women that I could be nurturing mother of two kids while working on my passion as an entrepreneur as well.
The key for me was open communication. I talked to my children about my work, explaining its importance to me and assuring them of my constant love. This experience, although challenging, really propelled both my personal and professional growth. It emphasized the importance of time management, clear communication, and developing a strong sense of resilience.
Digisha Shah, PR & Brand Consultant and Founder of DSPR
Finding time to balance both my work and caring for my baby was challenging. I made sure that I informed my clients and prepped my team to function in my absence before my labor. Post-pregnancy, I initially struggled mentally and physically and took time to heal, followed my doctor's advice, and avoided societal pressure to return to work immediately. In the first few months, I managed to work through online supervision, then slowly returned to work after six months as my baby became less dependent.
I divided my workday into morning, afternoon, and night to manage my time better. I also started cutting down on a lot of time-consuming things, like mindless scrolling on social media and watching random shows on OTT platforms. Now, I am more selective about the kind of content I consume and use AI tools and technology to work more efficiently.
Bindya Talluri, Founder, Bindt Beauty
Growing up, I observed my mother juggling work commitments with limited time for us, focusing on our education rather than spending prolonged hours in the kitchen. Witnessing her ability to multitask inspired me to prioritize spending ample time with my child, particularly during the formative years, intending to resume full-time work when he reaches 7 or 8. However, balancing both roles proves immensely challenging, with occasions where my business demands attention conflicting with moments when my son needs me. Despite such dilemmas, my unwavering priority remains family over business, valuing the irreplaceable moments spent together.
Being a role model of independence and financial self-sufficiency for my son has bolstered my own confidence and instilled important values in him, such as respect for women and the significance of hard work. It's profoundly rewarding when he shares ambitious aspirations for BindtBeauty, sometimes even surpassing my own, fueling my motivation further.
Pallavi Jha, MD and Chairperson, Walchand PeopleFirst Limited and Dale Carnegie Training
When my first daughter was born, I took two years off. But soon after, I began working. By the time my second child was born, I was working with the family business, a major conglomerate, which was in the process of dividing assets among the family. It was a difficult period emotionally. One was burning from both ends, giving its all to both the children and the business. I was able to do it because I received incredible support from my husband and mother while caring for her. We all pitched in, even if it was a stretch.
As a young couple, we were just beginning out, becoming new parents while still establishing both of our careers. But, when there is love and joy in the family one tides over all these challenges. It has helped me understand the value of relationships. I am more patient as an individual and more empathetic at the workplace. I have gotten used to juggling priorities and showing up when needed. I appreciate more when people help others building greater camaraderie. As a result, I have become a happier person, a better parent as well as a more effective leader.
Richa Malhan, CEO & Founder Rcube Hospitality
As a mother growing my business, I've faced unique challenges that required a delicate balance between my roles as a parent and a business leader. One of the biggest hurdles was managing my time effectively to ensure I could be there for my children while also giving my full attention to the growth of my business. To overcome this challenge, I implemented strict time management techniques, prioritizing tasks and delegating responsibilities where possible. Additionally, I learned to be flexible and adaptable, understanding that sometimes unexpected events may require me to shift my focus between my family and my business.
In terms of personal and business growth, these challenges have provided invaluable insights that have strengthened both aspects of my life. I've learned the importance of resilience and perseverance, understanding that setbacks are inevitable but can be overcome with determination and a positive mindset. Moreover, navigating the complexities of balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship has honed my decision-making skills and enhanced my ability to prioritize effectively, which has proven invaluable in driving the growth of my business.
Chanda Singh, CEO, XP&D
Navigating the journey of motherhood while growing a business certainly comes with its own set of challenges. I have had a fair share of them. Balancing the demands of motherhood with those of running a business can often feel like a juggling act. It requires a combination of efficient time management techniques, such as prioritizing tasks, setting realistic deadlines, and delegating responsibilities where possible, prioritization based on what matters most in the moment, flexibility by Being open to adjusting schedules, adapting plans on the fly, and accepting that not everything will always go according to plan has helped me maintain a sense of equilibrium amidst the inevitable ups and downs of both motherhood and business ownership, and building a strong support network has been instrumental in overcoming the challenges of juggling motherhood and entrepreneurship.
By embracing resilience, continuous learning, and work-life integration, I've been able to overcome obstacles, foster personal and professional growth, and find fulfilment in both aspects of my life journey.
Archana Khosla Burman, Founder Partner, Vertices Partners
I see motherhood as a deep learning journey that helped me overcome the challenges as an entrepreneur. As a mother and a businesswoman, I feel more responsible for finding ways of balancing both aspects to grow uniquely while putting forth crucial skills. Some of the challenges that I faced or felt while performing these roles were, one, guilty of not being able to devote 100% to either my child or my business. Two, managing time and responsibilities between work and family and three adaptability and flexibility. Taking each of these challenges head-on individually has helped over time to find the perfect balance.
Inculcating habits such as better time management and using work organizers has helped. I can’t say that I have managed to ace effective time management but allocating specific hours to work and family has helped be more productive at work or have a more quality interaction with my child. Similarly, by being flexible and adaptive to the needs and demands of the business or my child with simple delegation or optimal use of resources available can bring forth operational efficiency and staying consistent in performing my duties efficiently.
Gunjita Singhal, Co-Founder & CMO, Cafe & Club Roadies | Roadies Gyms
I have confronted some unique challenges while growing my business as a mother. Running a booming enterprise while at the same time taking care of my both sons Anirudh and Aditya. The constant battle with mother guilt, stemming from not being able to dedicate as much time to my children as I would have liked due to professional commitments, weighed heavily on me. However, with the unwavering support of my husband Neeraj, I've navigated these challenges with resilience. His support is everything, it gives me the strength to juggle between family and profession.
Moreover, integrating family-centric values into Cafe Roadies & Gym posed its challenges. Ensuring a family-friendly environment while maintaining a vibrant nightlife experience required strategic planning and innovative solutions. The ability to balance on this tightrope has advanced my adaptability skills as well as time management which has had an impact on both personal growth and business success stories.
Every hurdle I encounter turns out into an opportunity for more knowledge about what it means to be resilient in life but also strategic when planning for things that matter most such as love or even enterprises like entrepreneurship. Through hard work plus creativity; Cafe Roadies has grown into a lively joint where people can gather around not only for coffee but also for entertainment and nightlife while still fostering healthy relationships within our own family thus achieving holistic success in all areas according to my dreams.
Gauri Varma, Chef, Founder G Patisserie / Confect
Choosing to become a parent is a deliberate decision, not an obligation. Embracing this role means prioritizing your child's upbringing and adapting your life to meet their needs. Amidst the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, I navigated the complexities of raising a toddler while expanding my business in the food industry without external support. The pandemic struck when my child, Ivaahn, was just eight months old, and restrictions eased after his second birthday. This period demanded extraordinary resilience as I balanced professional responsibilities with motherhood, often missing precious milestones due to work commitments.
However, I learned to forgive myself for the missed moments and focused on the necessity of my actions for our future. I drew strength from the understanding that many parents, due to their professions, endure prolonged separations from their children. This perspective and the invaluable time spent with my son during lockdowns underscored the importance of quality over quantity in time spent together. I strategically planned our days to maximize meaningful interactions, fostering growth as a person, a mother, and an entrepreneur.
Ultimately, every hurdle overcome and every achievement gained was fueled by the motivation to secure a better future for my child. This journey taught me the significance of cherishing focused, quality moments with my son, shaping a profound and enriching experience from an otherwise challenging time.
Payal Nambiar, Founder and CEO, B Square
Being a mother is a blessing but definitely it comes with its own challenges. Your work and as well your kids both need your full devotion and commitment and there is no other option than to balance it intelligently. You need to create a brilliant support system to help you manage your day to day tasks. Another foolproof solution is time management. A well- planned strategy to handle both your house and work will gear you up with harmonious work and home management. One needs to also prioritize the tasks at both fronts on a day- to-day basis. Routines can be handled with your management skills and for odd situations you must have plans B and C ready.
This is the mantra I have followed. Everyone has their own situation and challenges. You need to think constructively with maintain a positive attitude as women are capable to do this very diligently. But it shouldn't have a negative impact on your personal health and well-being. Our machines need to be well oiled with positive thoughts and Me Time too. You also need to surround yourself with people whom you love. Sometimes, all we require is that emotional support.
Damini Bhandary
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