Web strategist who helps creatives and service providers build websites designed to grow with them. Unlike other designers, I don’t just build for launch—I create strategic, scalable sites that stay valuable long after day one.
OH HEY!! I'M CHANTEL
Are you struggling with running business as default parent? Let’s get real about what that ACTUALLY looks like. Not the Instagram-perfect version with peaceful work sessions at cute coffee shops, but the raw, messy reality where your YouTube playlist is half business strategy videos and half Diana and Roma, and somehow there’s playdough stuck in your laptop keyboard.
Look, I’ve tried all the traditional business advice. Yes, I’ve set those 5 AM alarms. Yes, I’ve meticulously time-blocked my calendar. Yes, I’ve attempted to stay weeks ahead in my content calendar. But you know what? When you’re running business as default parent, shit always hits the fan, no matter how prepared you think you are.
Some days, I manage to embrace the chaos of running business as default parent. Other days? I’m not going to lie – I envy those who have a village to help them. I’ve tried every trick in the book:
Setting up movie time with enough snacks to feed a small army. Laying out every craft supply known to mankind. Working during those precious sleeping hours because sometimes that’s just what has to happen. And you know what? It’s all okay.
Here’s what I’ve actually learned: investing in help isn’t a luxury when you’re running business as default parent – it’s a necessity. Whether that’s:
Let’s talk about real preparation that actually helps. Create emergency bins – yes, actual bins – for different situations:
The Sick Day Survival Kit: Keep everything in one spot instead of frantically searching while dealing with a sick kid. ( I also carry this bin up and down the stairs throughout the day/night. )
Stock it with:
The PA Day/Snow Day Bin/leave me alone bin: Fill it with activities they can manage THEMSELVES while you work:
Time to get real about TV and tablets. Let go of that guilt right now. If they want to watch Die Hard Bluey, Diana and Roma, or YouTube videos of other kids playing or making crafts? Let them. Debbie on Instagram @crunchymomsarethebest doesn’t need to know about your parenting choices.
Screen time isn’t just a distraction – it’s a business tool in your arsenal. Use it strategically:
The goal isn’t to be a perfect parent – it’s to be a present one when you can be, and a working one when you need to be.
Let me tell you something about running business as default parent – we just GET SHIT DONE. Being the primary caregiver has actually made us:
Stop trying to force your life to fit your business. Instead, build a business that works with your real life:
Connect with other parents who get it. The ones who won’t judge when you:
Will it ever be Instagram-perfect? Nope. Will there be days when you question all your life choices? Probably. But here’s the thing – you’re doing something amazing, even if it looks messy from the outside.
Remember, you’re not failing because your business doesn’t look like everyone else’s. You’re pioneering a new way of entrepreneurship – one that makes space for both board meetings and board games.
Want to make your business life a little easier? Grab my free Website Project Planner and start creating systems that actually work for your real life.
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