Right, let’s be honest, how many times have you been mid-sentence on an important client call, only to have your toddler decide THAT precise moment is the perfect time to showcase their newly mastered (and ear-piercing) dinosaur roar? Just last week, I was prepping for a live training session in Femme:Connect, headphones on, notes spread out, trying to maintain that “Zen master” vibe, when my two-year-old, in a move of pure toddler genius, decided my microphone cable was the perfect swing, yanking it right out of my laptop mid-sentence. It wasn’t just the abrupt silence that threw me; it was the look of utter betrayal on Espresso’s face (our miniature pinscher puppy) when the music stopped. Talk about a mood killer! We’re juggling client deadlines, strategic planning, building empires – all while navigating the beautiful chaos of family life. And honestly, who can blame them? They probably think your glowing screen is an invitation for a chat! But while these interruptions might be funny in retrospect (I mean, seriously, sometimes you just have to laugh, right?), they can also be incredibly disruptive, derailing your flow & threatening that hard-won professionalism we strive for. A 2017 University of California, Irvine study found that it takes an average of 23 minutes and 15 seconds to get back to the task at hand following an interruption. And as busy entrepreneurs, we know every minute counts!

It’s like they have a superpower, isn’t it? The ability to completely tune out your carefully articulated “I’m on a call!” declaration, only to develop supersonic hearing the second the kettle boils or the biscuit tin opens. This isn’t malicious (most of the time!), it’s just… life. They’re living their lives, blissfully unaware of the delicate dance you’re performing between CEO & Chief Snack Officer.

I remember once, I was pitching a new program to a potential investor – a really big deal for me. I’d prepped for days, visualised success, even managed to get myself looking vaguely presentable despite the usual morning chaos. Everything was going perfectly. I was eloquent, confident, painting a compelling picture of Femmeprenista’s future. And then? Out of the blue, my teenage daughter, bless her heart, walks into the room holding a half-eaten banana, points at my laptop screen, & asks, with the utmost sincerity, “Mum, is that lady your boss?” I think my face said it all. My internal monologue was screaming, “Noooo! Not now!” The investor, to his credit, chuckled and said, “Sounds like you’ve got a future CEO in the making!” We moved past it, but inside, I was crumbling. I literally locked myself in the bathroom afterwards & had a little cry. It felt so unprofessional, like I’d blown this huge opportunity. It took me a good hour (and a large glass of wine – it was wine o’clock somewhere!) to reframe the experience and remind myself that even seasoned CEOs have “human” moments. But it was a stark reminder of the ever-present juggle we face as work-from-home mums, especially as Foundation Builders trying to establish ourselves. Honestly, you’ve got to find the funny side. That same week, I was just about to launch into a coaching session with one of my Launch Programme members when my toddler decided to use my laptop (again!) as her personal canvas, this time using a marker to create what can only be described as “abstract toddler art” across my screen. As she put it, “I make pretty for you, Mummy!” My initial reaction? Suffice it to say, “serenity” wasn’t it! I wanted the earth to swallow me whole. But then I took a deep breath, laughed it off with my client (who, thankfully, was also a mum!), and we carried on. It’s all part of the journey, isn’t it? And it reinforced my belief that genuine connection, built on real-life, “messy” moments, is always stronger than aiming for some unattainable ideal of polished perfection.

So, what’s the solution? Locking yourself in the cupboard with a “Do Not Disturb” sign & a lifetime supply of coffee? Tempting, I know. But unsustainable. Like most things in our entrepreneurial lives, it comes down to personal responsibility, proactive communication, & a few strategic tweaks – just like how my MBA at Cranfield taught me to question every process and ask, “Is this the best way of doing things?” After all, questioning the status quo is in my DNA – it’s the Gemini in me, always curious, always seeking a better way!

This starts with setting boundaries. Not harsh, draconian rules, but clear expectations. If I’d had clearer boundaries around my workspace during my corporate days (especially at Apple, where the expectation to be “always on” was intense), I might have avoided a few meltdowns! My kids, even the little ones, know that when the office door is closed, Mummy is “working” (though they still seem to think “working” involves a lot of giggling & talking to the laptop – kids have wild imaginations!). It’s not always foolproof, but it helps. It’s the same principle I teach in the Spark Program when we talk about defining your niche and target audience. If you are not clear about your boundaries or your area of expertise, the world will push against you.

* **Visual Cues:** We also have a visual cue: a specific lamp on my desk that’s on when I’m in “do not disturb” mode. This acts as a simple but effective signal, kind of like a traffic light system for the house. Another example is a sign on the door – even something simple drawn by the kids can work wonders!

* **Scheduled “Do Not Disturb” Times:** Block out specific times in your shared family calendar for focused work, just like you would for any other important appointment. Treat these blocks as sacred; they’re your time to focus, to create, to build your empire!

What works for you? Are your boundaries clear? How do *you* navigate the beautiful chaos? Share your tips & tricks in the comments below – let’s create a collective wisdom bank for juggling mums!

Planning is your superpower here. Honestly, after juggling my MBA at Cranfield with a nine-month-old, I learned that “winging it” is a recipe for disaster. Pre-emptive planning is key – something I help my Momentum Coaching clients implement as they scale their businesses & teams. Before a call, I do a quick “sweep” of potential distractions – a bit like a pre-flight check before takeoff!

* **Snack Attack Prevention:** Are the snacks stocked? Drinks readily available? Are the dogs fed and watered? (Espresso, our puppy, has a knack for finding the loudest chew toy the *second* I hit “record” on a video.)

* **Engaging Activities:** Is there a strategically placed activity to keep little hands busy (think colouring, puzzles, or, in desperate times, the magic of screen time – we’ve all been there!). One of my school-aged daughters gets totally engrossed in LEGO, so a new LEGO set is my secret weapon!

* **Tech Check:** Ensure your technology is working flawlessly beforehand – a glitching microphone or poor internet connection adds unnecessary stress. I learned this the hard way during an online summit presentation when my internet decided to take a vacation – right in the middle of my keynote! Remember, as Sue Knight says, “Success comes from within. Our success depends on our ability to be excellent in everything we think, say, and do.”

This doesn’t eliminate all surprises, but it definitely minimizes them. It also means having honest conversations with your partner – because, let’s face it, even the most amazing partners can sometimes be blissfully unaware of the delicate ecosystem of organised chaos that is our world.

* **Shared Calendar Power:** Shared calendars & clear communication about who’s covering what can help prevent those “Oh, I didn’t realize you had a call” moments. My partner and I have colour-coded calendars; pink is for me, blue for him, and purple for shared family commitments. It’s a visual lifesaver!

* **Tech Support (The Partner Edition):** Brief your partner on any tech you might need help with during a presentation – they can be your backstage crew! Mine is a tech whiz, thank goodness, so he’s my go-to for all things digital.

Even a simple text reminder before important calls can make a world of difference. Remember, as Ali Abdaal might say, “Focus on consistency over intensity.”

This isn’t just about telling your family to “be quiet.” It’s about explaining why. My children understand that Mummy’s calls are important for our family, that they help us do fun things like holidays & trips to the park. This isn’t about bribing them into silence; it’s about helping them understand the bigger picture. It’s akin to the “why” behind building a business – something we delve deep into in the Launch Programme. It’s crucial to establish that “why” both for ourselves and our families! It’s the same with partners. Clear, open communication about upcoming commitments, deadlines, & the times you absolutely need uninterrupted focus is crucial.

* **Family Meetings:** Regular family meetings can be a great way to discuss work schedules & expectations. My kids love feeling involved! We even have a “meeting agenda” whiteboard where they can add their important topics (mostly requests for ice cream & extra screen time!).

* **The “Why” Behind the Work:** Explain to your family (age-appropriately, of course) how your work benefits them. This helps them understand the importance of your focused time. My toddler now proudly tells everyone, “Mummy helps ladies make businesses!”

A phrase I live by is, “The meaning of communication is the response you get”, so try different ways to communicate your needs until it lands.

Your workspace matters. It doesn’t have to be a fancy, Instagram-worthy office (though if you have one, more power to you!). It can be a corner of the kitchen table, a dedicated desk in the spare room, or even a well-organized cupboard (just ensure adequate ventilation!). The key is to make it your own – your little sanctuary of productivity amidst the whirlwind. This is something I explore with my Ascend Executive Coaching clients – how to optimize their environment for peak performance, even if it’s not a dedicated office.

* **Sensory Delights:** A few plants, a calming scent (I love a lavender-scented candle!), a comfortable chair, noise-cancelling headphones to help block distractions, a photo of your family for inspiration, and maybe a small “Zen garden” on your desk to fiddle with during brainstorming sessions – whatever makes you feel focused & at peace amidst the potential chaos. Creating a dedicated and personalized space, free from distractions as much as possible, was a huge game-changer for me when I was studying for my MBA while my second daughter was a baby.

* **Ready-to-Go Essentials:** I always have a glass of water & my headphones to hand (even if it’s not a video call). It’s a simple ritual that signals to my brain, “Okay, it’s focus time now!”

Think about what helps your business & *you* “Bloom”! What does your ideal workspace look & feel like? What tiny tweaks could you make today to create a more peaceful & productive zone? Share your vision below!

Let’s face it, even with the best planning, things will happen. Kids will be kids. Partners will forget things. Dogs will bark at squirrels. It’s life. Embrace it. I’m still learning how to accept and navigate this “beautiful chaos” – it’s a constant process. When that unexpected interruption happens, take a deep breath, handle it with grace & humour, & move on. Your clients, especially if they’re parents too, will likely understand. Authenticity trumps perfection every time. If you’re a Foundation Builder managing a growing business and family, and you’re looking for more support, community, & strategies for building a thriving online business that truly integrates with your life as a mum, I invite you to join our free global community, Femme:Connect. It’s a space where we share wins, tackle challenges together, & remind each other that we’re not alone in this beautiful, chaotic, & incredibly rewarding journey. [Link to: Femme:Connect Community Page(https://www.femmeprenista.com/femmeconnect)]

P.S. If you’re ready to launch or scale your online business & crave the support of a like-minded community, join our free Femme:Connect community today! [Link to: Femme:Connect Community Page (https://www.femmeprenista.com/femmeconnect)]

Carlene Nisbett

Founder & CEO, Femmeprenista (Coach, Mentor, Speaker)

(Femmeprenista Logo Placeholder)

Wife, Mother of four, Business Owner, PhD Researcher, Pet mom, Plant mom, 5’0″ tall

Passionate Multitasker & Wine Lover, You get the drift…

www.femmeprenista.com

Join th
e conversation & get more insights: Join Our Facebook Community Today.

Right, let’s be honest, how many times have you been mid-sentence on an important client call, only to have your toddler decide THAT precise moment is the perfect time to showcase their newly mastered (and ear-piercing) dinosaur roar? Just last week, I was prepping for a live training session in Femme:Connect, headphones on, notes spread out, trying to maintain that “Zen master” vibe, when my two-year-old, in a move of pure toddler genius, decided my microphone cable was the perfect swing, yanking it right out of my laptop mid-sentence. It wasn’t just the abrupt silence that threw me; it was the look of utter betrayal on Espresso’s face (our miniature pinscher puppy) when the music stopped. Talk about a mood killer! We’re juggling client deadlines, strategic planning, building empires – all while navigating the beautiful chaos of family life. And honestly, who can blame them? They probably think your glowing screen is an invitation for a chat! But while these interruptions might be funny in retrospect (I mean, seriously, sometimes you just have to laugh, right?), they can also be incredibly disruptive, derailing your flow & threatening that hard-won professionalism we strive for. A 2017 University of California, Irvine study found that it takes an average of 23 minutes and 15 seconds to get back to the task at hand following an interruption. And as busy entrepreneurs, we know every minute counts!

It’s like they have a superpower, isn’t it? The ability to completely tune out your carefully articulated “I’m on a call!” declaration, only to develop supersonic hearing the second the kettle boils or the biscuit tin opens. This isn’t malicious (most of the time!), it’s just… life. They’re living their lives, blissfully unaware of the delicate dance you’re performing between CEO & Chief Snack Officer.

I remember once, I was pitching a new program to a potential investor – a really big deal for me. I’d prepped for days, visualised success, even managed to get myself looking vaguely presentable despite the usual morning chaos. Everything was going perfectly. I was eloquent, confident, painting a compelling picture of Femmeprenista’s future. And then? Out of the blue, my teenage daughter, bless her heart, walks into the room holding a half-eaten banana, points at my laptop screen, & asks, with the utmost sincerity, “Mum, is that lady your boss?” I think my face said it all. My internal monologue was screaming, “Noooo! Not now!” The investor, to his credit, chuckled and said, “Sounds like you’ve got a future CEO in the making!” We moved past it, but inside, I was crumbling. I literally locked myself in the bathroom afterwards & had a little cry. It felt so unprofessional, like I’d blown this huge opportunity. It took me a good hour (and a large glass of wine – it was wine o’clock somewhere!) to reframe the experience and remind myself that even seasoned CEOs have “human” moments. But it was a stark reminder of the ever-present juggle we face as work-from-home mums, especially as Foundation Builders trying to establish ourselves. Honestly, you’ve got to find the funny side. That same week, I was just about to launch into a coaching session with one of my Launch Programme members when my toddler decided to use my laptop (again!) as her personal canvas, this time using a marker to create what can only be described as “abstract toddler art” across my screen. As she put it, “I make pretty for you, Mummy!” My initial reaction? Suffice it to say, “serenity” wasn’t it! I wanted the earth to swallow me whole. But then I took a deep breath, laughed it off with my client (who, thankfully, was also a mum!), and we carried on. It’s all part of the journey, isn’t it? And it reinforced my belief that genuine connection, built on real-life, “messy” moments, is always stronger than aiming for some unattainable ideal of polished perfection.

So, what’s the solution? Locking yourself in the cupboard with a “Do Not Disturb” sign & a lifetime supply of coffee? Tempting, I know. But unsustainable. Like most things in our entrepreneurial lives, it comes down to personal responsibility, proactive communication, & a few strategic tweaks – just like how my MBA at Cranfield taught me to question every process and ask, “Is this the best way of doing things?” After all, questioning the status quo is in my DNA – it’s the Gemini in me, always curious, always seeking a better way!

This starts with setting boundaries. Not harsh, draconian rules, but clear expectations. If I’d had clearer boundaries around my workspace during my corporate days (especially at Apple, where the expectation to be “always on” was intense), I might have avoided a few meltdowns! My kids, even the little ones, know that when the office door is closed, Mummy is “working” (though they still seem to think “working” involves a lot of giggling & talking to the laptop – kids have wild imaginations!). It’s not always foolproof, but it helps. It’s the same principle I teach in the Spark Program when we talk about defining your niche and target audience. If you are not clear about your boundaries or your area of expertise, the world will push against you.

* **Visual Cues:** We also have a visual cue: a specific lamp on my desk that’s on when I’m in “do not disturb” mode. This acts as a simple but effective signal, kind of like a traffic light system for the house. Another example is a sign on the door – even something simple drawn by the kids can work wonders!

* **Scheduled “Do Not Disturb” Times:** Block out specific times in your shared family calendar for focused work, just like you would for any other important appointment. Treat these blocks as sacred; they’re your time to focus, to create, to build your empire!

What works for you? Are your boundaries clear? How do *you* navigate the beautiful chaos? Share your tips & tricks in the comments below – let’s create a collective wisdom bank for juggling mums!

Planning is your superpower here. Honestly, after juggling my MBA at Cranfield with a nine-month-old, I learned that “winging it” is a recipe for disaster. Pre-emptive planning is key – something I help my Momentum Coaching clients implement as they scale their businesses & teams. Before a call, I do a quick “sweep” of potential distractions – a bit like a pre-flight check before takeoff!

* **Snack Attack Prevention:** Are the snacks stocked? Drinks readily available? Are the dogs fed and watered? (Espresso, our puppy, has a knack for finding the loudest chew toy the *second* I hit “record” on a video.)

* **Engaging Activities:** Is there a strategically placed activity to keep little hands busy (think colouring, puzzles, or, in desperate times, the magic of screen time – we’ve all been there!). One of my school-aged daughters gets totally engrossed in LEGO, so a new LEGO set is my secret weapon!

* **Tech Check:** Ensure your technology is working flawlessly beforehand – a glitching microphone or poor internet connection adds unnecessary stress. I learned this the hard way during an online summit presentation when my internet decided to take a vacation – right in the middle of my keynote! Remember, as Sue Knight says, “Success comes from within. Our success depends on our ability to be excellent in everything we think, say, and do.”

This doesn’t eliminate all surprises, but it definitely minimizes them. It also means having honest conversations with your partner – because, let’s face it, even the most amazing partners can sometimes be blissfully unaware of the delicate ecosystem of organised chaos that is our world.

* **Shared Calendar Power:** Shared calendars & clear communication about who’s covering what can help prevent those “Oh, I didn’t realize you had a call” moments. My partner and I have colour-coded calendars; pink is for me, blue for him, and purple for shared family commitments. It’s a visual lifesaver!

* **Tech Support (The Partner Edition):** Brief your partner on any tech you might need help with during a presentation – they can be your backstage crew! Mine is a tech whiz, thank goodness, so he’s my go-to for all things digital.

Even a simple text reminder before important calls can make a world of difference. Remember, as Ali Abdaal might say, “Focus on consistency over intensity.”

This isn’t just about telling your family to “be quiet.” It’s about explaining why. My children understand that Mummy’s calls are important for our family, that they help us do fun things like holidays & trips to the park. This isn’t about bribing them into silence; it’s about helping them understand the bigger picture. It’s akin to the “why” behind building a business – something we delve deep into in the Launch Programme. It’s crucial to establish that “why” both for ourselves and our families! It’s the same with partners. Clear, open communication about upcoming commitments, deadlines, & the times you absolutely need uninterrupted focus is crucial.

* **Family Meetings:** Regular family meetings can be a great way to discuss work schedules & expectations. My kids love feeling involved! We even have a “meeting agenda” whiteboard where they can add their important topics (mostly requests for ice cream & extra screen time!).

* **The “Why” Behind the Work:** Explain to your family (age-appropriately, of course) how your work benefits them. This helps them understand the importance of your focused time. My toddler now proudly tells everyone, “Mummy helps ladies make businesses!”

A phrase I live by is, “The meaning of communication is the response you get”, so try different ways to communicate your needs until it lands.

Your workspace matters. It doesn’t have to be a fancy, Instagram-worthy office (though if you have one, more power to you!). It can be a corner of the kitchen table, a dedicated desk in the spare room, or even a well-organized cupboard (just ensure adequate ventilation!). The key is to make it your own – your little sanctuary of productivity amidst the whirlwind. This is something I explore with my Ascend Executive Coaching clients – how to optimize their environment for peak performance, even if it’s not a dedicated office.

* **Sensory Delights:** A few plants, a calming scent (I love a lavender-scented candle!), a comfortable chair, noise-cancelling headphones to help block distractions, a photo of your family for inspiration, and maybe a small “Zen garden” on your desk to fiddle with during brainstorming sessions – whatever makes you feel focused & at peace amidst the potential chaos. Creating a dedicated and personalized space, free from distractions as much as possible, was a huge game-changer for me when I was studying for my MBA while my second daughter was a baby.

* **Ready-to-Go Essentials:** I always have a glass of water & my headphones to hand (even if it’s not a video call). It’s a simple ritual that signals to my brain, “Okay, it’s focus time now!”

Think about what helps your business & *you* “Bloom”! What does your ideal workspace look & feel like? What tiny tweaks could you make today to create a more peaceful & productive zone? Share your vision below!

Let’s face it, even with the best planning, things will happen. Kids will be kids. Partners will forget things. Dogs will bark at squirrels. It’s life. Embrace it. I’m still learning how to accept and navigate this “beautiful chaos” – it’s a constant process. When that unexpected interruption happens, take a deep breath, handle it with grace & humour, & move on. Your clients, especially if they’re parents too, will likely understand. Authenticity trumps perfection every time. If you’re a Foundation Builder managing a growing business and family, and you’re looking for more support, community, & strategies for building a thriving online business that truly integrates with your life as a mum, I invite you to join our free global community, Femme:Connect. It’s a space where we share wins, tackle challenges together, & remind each other that we’re not alone in this beautiful, chaotic, & incredibly rewarding journey. [Link to: Femme:Connect Community Page(https://www.femmeprenista.com/femmeconnect)]

P.S. If you’re ready to launch or scale your online business & crave the support of a like-minded community, join our free Femme:Connect community today! [Link to: Femme:Connect Community Page (https://www.femmeprenista.com/femmeconnect)]

Carlene Nisbett

Founder & CEO, Femmeprenista (Coach, Mentor, Speaker)

(Femmeprenista Logo Placeholder)

Wife, Mother of four, Business Owner, PhD Researcher, Pet mom, Plant mom, 5’0″ tall

Passionate Multitasker & Wine Lover, You get the drift…

www.femmeprenista.com

Join th
e conversation & get more insights: Join Our Facebook Community Today.