from Kelli of KelliMurray.comMom, Inc.: The Essential Guide to Running a Successful Business Close to Home by Meg Mateo & Cat Seto
Personally, I always tend to gravitate toward biography, business, or self-improvement books. Perhaps it is just the entrepreneur in me, or my desire to learn and grow from someone else's real life experiences. Regardless, the book I chose to share here, Mom, Inc., is no exception. It is a practical guide to pursuing your creative passion with confidence, all while staying close to your family.
9 months ago, my husband and I welcomed our first baby girl into this world, and instantly, my life was turned upside down. To say it simply, pre-baby, I was a workaholic. I worked full time as the head designer for a clothing label & I spent my "free time" pursuing my personal passion as an artist and illustrator. I loved the feeling of accomplishment and working hard to meet a goal. I loved to create, inspire...and be inspired. I loved taking on new projects, meeting deadlines, and the satisfaction that came from "a job well done." In truth, much of my identity was found in my work.
But with the arrival of my daughter came a whole new shift in responsibility. All of a sudden she was my priority, and "work" no longer felt so important. I made the shift into full time freelance because I knew I wanted to be able to stay home and take care of my baby....but also have complete control over my workload and flexibility with my time. But something that not many people talk about is how challenging the transition into motherhood can be. Trust me, I love my baby girl more than life itself, but I began to struggle with balance, in a big way. I wanted to be a super mom, perfect wife, and a successful business woman.....but I felt as if I was failing at all of them. And for some reason, I felt like I was alone in that. It was during this time of frustration and self doubt that I read Mom, Inc., I realized that the challenges I was facing as a new mom and creative soul were not being faced by just me. This book is written by two women who have managed to find balance between running their own businesses and fulfilling (and ejoying!) their role as "mom". It is full of practical tips for maintaining that balance as well as inspiring stories from countless other women who have successfully done the same.
Whether you are looking to open an online shop, start a product line, launch a blog, or simply maintain the small business you have already started, this book is a great tool in helping you do those things while still making time for what is most important, family. Because most would agree, that being a mom is in fact the most important "job" some of us will ever have.
*Photos by Raechel Denise
see previous Literate & Stylish posts here.
