This is a guest post by Emily Graham. You can find out more about her on the Guest Bloggers page.

Stay-at-home moms usually have a lot on their plates as they work to take care of the kids while running a household. Taking care of everyone else’s needs before your own can become exhausting, however, which is why there has been a rise in “mompreneurs” in recent years. Starting your own business may sound like an overwhelming task, but there are plenty of helpful resources available online to help guide you every step of the way, and you’ll have the benefit of doing something you enjoy while making money.

Some business ideas work better than others for parents who stay home, so this guide will help you figure out which path to take and how to make the process as smooth as possible. You can also find inspiration from other working moms. Check out all the informative content at Danielle Rivenbark.

Create a plan 

Finding the right business to go into is the first step, and it requires some careful thought. If you’ve always wanted to make a career out of a hobby or creative skill, there are a few things to keep in mind, such as: will you still enjoy the hobby itself if it becomes something you have to do instead of something you do for fun? Do you have space in your home to keep supplies and finished products, or will you need to rent storage or workspace? Is there a demand for the products you want to make?

If your business idea is service-based–for instance, if you’re interested in becoming a freelance graphic designer or accountant–it’s important to think about how you’ll market your business so that the right clients can find you. Do some research to find out more about possible competition, funding opportunities (including grants), and which marketing methods will be best for you.

Stay on track

 Once you’ve started your research, it’s crucial to stay organized and on track so that nothing gets overlooked. Not only that, good organization will ensure that you’re able to stick to a schedule and manage things at home, too. Utilize a monthly planner template that will allow you to see what’s coming up for the next few weeks and organize your time. You can find customizable options that will include videos and sticky notes so you’re on task and prepared for anything.

Stick to your routines

 Getting organized will not only help with starting your business, it will allow you to keep up with your household responsibilities as well. Finding work/life balance can be tricky when you’re a busy parent, but sticking to a routine is a great way to remain organized and ensure that everyone’s needs are taken care of without stress or chaos. Think about the details, such as snack and nap times, when working out a schedule that the family can follow. It will probably be helpful for you to set up a workspace that allows you to both keep an eye on things and find some privacy when you need it, especially if you have very young children at home.

Stay connected

Even if you’re well-organized and stick to your routines, it can be challenging to avoid isolation when you’re busy building your business and taking care of the family at the same time. Take steps to stay connected to your friends and family, even if it’s only via email, text, or video chat. Get active on social media, as not only will this help you personally, it will be a major boon for your business’s marketing strategy.

Starting a business as a busy parent takes a lot of planning and patience, so give yourself lots of time to work out the details. Check with local and state guidelines to make sure you have the right permits and licenses before you get started, as this will prevent a nasty surprise from the IRS down the road.