Why 20-Hour Work Weeks Are the Secret to Success for Mom Entrepreneurs

As mom entrepreneurs, we're constantly juggling responsibilities, trying to build thriving businesses while prioritizing our families. One of the most common challenges we face is time management – how do we create successful businesses when our work hours are limited to school hours?

The Case for the 20-Hour Work Week

Even though school hours typically provide about 25 hours of potential work time each week, I deliberately plan for a 20-hour work week instead. This intentional buffer creates space for the unexpected realities of mom life:

• School closures and professional development days
• Half days and parent-teacher conferences
• Field trips and volunteer opportunities
• Those inevitable days when your energy or motivation is running low

By planning for 20 hours instead of 25, I'm setting myself up for success rather than constant disappointment. This built-in 5-hour buffer means I can handle life's curveballs without feeling like I'm falling behind.

Time Management Essentials for Mom Entrepreneurs

Effective time management isn't just about how many hours you work—it's about how you use those hours. Here are some key strategies:

1. Be intentional about work boundaries

I've caught myself folding laundry or washing dishes during my designated work hours. When this happens, I immediately stop and remind myself: anything that can be done when my child is home should be saved for later. Those school hours are precious business-building time!

2. Build in buffers for errands and self-care

Having that 5-hour buffer means I can run necessary errands during school hours without feeling guilty. I often combine errands with other priorities like getting steps in or listening to educational podcasts.

3. Model your priorities through actions

Children notice what we do more than what we say. By keeping business activities within school hours, I demonstrate that my son truly is my priority when he's home. This alignment between words and actions builds trust and shows him what healthy work-life boundaries look like.

4. Conduct a time audit

To maximize your productivity, track how you're actually spending your time for a few days. Be honest with yourself about distractions and time leaks. This awareness is the first step toward more effective time management.

5. Minimize distractions

Put your phone on Do Not Disturb mode or leave it in another room while working. Every time you switch tasks because of a notification, you're draining valuable mental energy.

6. Batch similar tasks

Instead of task-switching throughout the day, group similar activities together. Record all your videos at once, write social media posts in batches, or handle all your email correspondence in one sitting. This approach is far more efficient than jumping between different types of work.

Planning for Seasons of Life

As I record this, I'm actively preparing for summer break by batching content and setting up systems. My goal is to create a business that can attract, nurture, and serve clients even when my direct involvement is limited to coaching calls and engagement.

By planning ahead, I can enjoy summer with my son while my business continues to thrive. This seasonal approach to planning is one of the most powerful tools in a mom entrepreneur's arsenal.

Ready to Reclaim Your Time?

If you're struggling to build your business within school hours, I've created a free resource just for you. The 20-Hour Work Week Blueprint for Mom Entrepreneurs helps you structure your limited work time for maximum impact.

This blueprint guides you through the reverse engineering process I use with my clients—starting with your vision and goals, then creating a practical plan to achieve them within your 20 available hours.

Remember, motherhood is full-time, but your business can still thrive. You don't need to choose between being present for your children and building a successful enterprise. With the right strategies and systems, you can have both.

Are you currently tracking your work hours? What's your biggest time management challenge as a mom entrepreneur? Share in the comments below!