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When you’re a mom, managing a side hustle, your kids, and your responsibilities at home can feel a bit like wrangling cats: chaotic, unproductive, and occasionally painful. There’s good news, though! With a dedicated and well-planned workspace, you can transform your side hustle struggle into a success story.
This isn’t just about having a desk though. In fact, you don’t really need a desk if you’re tight on space. It’s more about crafting a command center that fuels focus, boosts creativity, and ultimately drives achievements. Here are 5 steps to turn your side hustle workspace from zero to hero. Not to mention a few additional ideas to elevate your space into a mompreneur powerhouse station.
Step 1: Claim Your Space & Define Your Flow
Believe it or not, even a small corner of your home can be revamped to become the perfect command center for your side hustle. Ideally, you should try to choose a space with minimal distractions (i.e. – maybe avoid the playroom or living room where the television is on display) and good lighting. If you don’t have an office that’s already separated from the rest of the house, you can consider using a room divider or bookshelf to create a vision separation from the rest of the room. Keep in mind, however, that your ideal space might vary a bit depending on the nature of your side hustle.
- Visual Hustles: If you’re a photographer, graphic designer, or crafter, you might want to make sure your workspace has plenty of surface area along with good lighting. Try maximizing natural light from nearby windows or strategically placed lamps.
- Content Creation Hustles: Writers, bloggers, or podcasters might prioritize an area that it is free from both visual and audible distractions. If you can’t shut yourself away from the rest of the house with a door, think about investing in noise-canceling headphones as a means to stay focused.
- Client-Facing Hustles: Virtual assistants or consultants who interact with clients on a regular basis might need a space that conveys professionalism for both phone calls and video conferencing. Try to choose the quietest space possible and make sure your background is professional for video calls. If you’re like me with an office that opens to the rest of the house, consider a panel divider that you can set up behind you as your background and then fold up and store when not in use.
Step 2: Declutter for Clarity and Embrace the Power of Organization
A cluttered workspace makes for a cluttered mind. Dedicate some time (daily, if needed) to clear off surfaces and organize your essentials. You can utilize shelves, drawer dividers and containers to help keep things neat and orderly. Creating a visually calming space helps to foster clear thinking and helps to keep you on task.
Don’t forget the organization goes beyond physical clutter! Take this opportunity to streamline your digital workspace as well. Organize your computer files, create clear folder structures, and utilize cloud storage for easy access.
Step 3: Personalize for Inspiration and Cultivate Your Vibe
The cleanest, most organized workspace might not help at all if you don’t love it! Surround yourself with items that motivate and inspire you. This could be something like a vision board, inspirational quotes, or artwork that reflects your side hustle theme. Just a touch of personalization will help make the space feel more like “yours,” and will ignite your passion.
Take it to the next step: Try to incorporate elements that reflect your brand identity and mood board, if applicable. For example, look for a pace to tie in your logo, color scheme, or marketing materials.
Step 5: Invest in Productivity and Create an Ergonomic Oasis
Make smart that are going to enhance your efficiency. A comfortable chair that is the correct height for your table/desk is essential for long work sessions. You could also consider a standing desk or ergonomic keyboard to prevent additional physical discomfort. You might also want to consider investing in tools that will help streamline your workflow, like a second monitor (I’ll never go back to just one!) or noise-cancelling headphones.
Ergonomics matter. Seriously. Don’t underestimate the importance of proper posture and lighting. Invest in a chair that provides adequate back support and make sure your desk height has your monitor at eye level. If you can’t adjust your desk height, you can find monitor risers that make a world of difference when it comes to neck pain, eyestrain and headaches. Utilize natural light whenever possible, and supplement with adjustment desk lamps for task lighting.
Step 5: Optimize for Focus and Conquer Distractions
I get it. You’re a mom. There are a million things going through your head and probably a bit of chaos in the background. On top of that, technology can be a double-edged sword. Combat distractions by utilizing website blockers or set your phone to work mode. You can even get a cute little do-not-disturb sign to put on the outside of your workspace to let the family know that you’re not available.
The Final Touches: Cultivating a Pre-Hustle Ritual and Establishing Boundaries
Craft a Pre-Hustle Ritual: Did you know that rituals signal your brain that something specific is about to happen? Create a routine that signals a transition into work-mode. It doesn’t need to be fancy! It could be as simple as making a cup of coffee, listening to a specific song, or taking a short walk to clear your head.
Boundaries are Key: Having a dedicated workspace allows you to establish clear boundaries between your work life and side hustle life. Not to mention its a good visual aid to let the rest of your family know that is mom is at work and shouldn’t be disturbed.
Remember, your side hustle workspace is a reflection of your dedication and a key ingredient for success. By following these steps and personalizing your space to fit your needs, you’ll be well on your way to turning your side hustle into a thriving venture.
P.S. – want to know something else that might be even more important when it comes to making sure your side hustle succeeds? Click here to find out what it is!
