"Personal Lifestyle and Personal Happiness

Women bring a great twist to the typical business owner lifestyle. Many of us are starting our own businesses so that we can spend more time with our families. Most of us don?t want the 40 foot yacht, or sports car. We want to see our kids' games, change our kids' diapers, see the first steps, and generally care for our families. By starting our own business, we set the mood and expectation at work. Flex time, paid sick days, child care at work, and other creative practices are often used by business owners to promote balance between work and home.

Maybe you want to start a business that will allow you to be a stay-at-home mom. That?s what I did. The carpet in my office is stained from baby spit up as she crawled at my feet while I worked on the computer. I made my business phone calls during her nap. Thank goodness she was a great sleeper, or it never would have worked. At some point, though, you will find that the melding of executive and mommy has very large challenges. My first daughter is now in daycare (she?s 3) and I can now schedule appointments during the day and not worry about her talking when I answer the work phone. Contrary to other kids in her class, we spend time together in the morning having breakfast and talking. Some days I quit work at 3 pm so we can go to the park.

Be sure to remember what your personal goals are, too.