Overcoming Challenges as a Single Mom Solopreneur

Welcome back to the blog! In this post, we're diving deep into the inspiring journey of Liz Steblay, a single mom who not only navigated the challenges of raising a child in an expensive city but also built a successful solopreneurial career. This post expands upon the insightful conversation I had with Liz Steblay on The Authors Alley with Dori DeCarlo. We'll explore her path from a layoff to founding the ProKo Agency and PICA (Professional Independent Consultants of America), and extract key lessons from her book, "Succeeding as a Solopreneur." Get ready to discover practical strategies for time management, financial stability, community building, and overcoming the inevitable guilt that comes with balancing business and family as a single mom solopreneur.

Balancing Act - Single Mom Solopreneurship

The life of a solopreneur is demanding. Add to that the responsibilities and emotional weight of single parenthood, and you have a balancing act that requires immense skill, resilience, and a healthy dose of self-compassion. Single moms who choose the solopreneurial path often do so for the flexibility and control it offers, allowing them to be more present in their children's lives while still pursuing their professional ambitions. However, this path is not without its unique challenges.

The financial pressures can be intense. Unlike a traditional job with a steady paycheck and benefits, income as a solopreneur can be unpredictable. Managing cash flow, securing clients, and covering expenses all fall squarely on the shoulders of the single mom. Time management becomes a critical skill. Juggling client meetings, project deadlines, school drop-offs, doctor's appointments, and everything in between requires meticulous planning and often, some creative problem-solving.

Perhaps one of the most pervasive challenges is the feeling of guilt. Single mom solopreneurs often struggle with the feeling that they are not doing enough, either for their business or for their children. They may miss out on school events due to work commitments, or feel distracted during playtime because of looming deadlines. Overcoming this guilt requires reframing expectations, prioritizing self-care, and building a strong support system.

From Layoff to Solopreneur Success

Liz Steblay's story is a testament to the power of resilience and entrepreneurial spirit. Facing a layoff, she didn't see it as a setback but as an opportunity. Contacting a former colleague led to her first consulting contract, and she quickly realized the potential of self-employment. The increased income, reduced working hours, and more time with her daughter convinced her that the "real job" route was no longer the only option.

Liz's success wasn't accidental. It was born from a combination of hard work, strategic thinking, and a deep understanding of her skills and the market. She identified a need for independent consultants and built a business that connected them with Fortune 500 clients. Her journey exemplifies the solopreneurial mindset – the ability to see opportunities where others see obstacles and the courage to take calculated risks.

Her story demonstrates that it is possible to thrive as a single mom solopreneur, but it requires a clear vision, unwavering determination, and a willingness to learn and adapt. Liz's experience provides valuable lessons for anyone considering this path, highlighting the importance of networking, marketing oneself effectively, and building a sustainable business model.

The ProKo Agency: Representing Independent Consultants

The ProKo Agency, founded by Liz, is a testament to her entrepreneurial vision. Recognizing the growing demand for specialized skills and flexible talent, she created an agency that represents independent consultants on projects with Fortune 500 companies. This agency model benefits both consultants and clients. Consultants gain access to larger projects and a steady stream of work, while clients benefit from the expertise of highly skilled professionals without the overhead of hiring full-time employees.

ProKo's success is rooted in its commitment to quality and its understanding of the consulting landscape. The agency carefully vets its consultants, ensuring they possess the skills and experience necessary to deliver exceptional results. It also provides ongoing support and resources to help consultants succeed in their projects. By focusing on building strong relationships with both consultants and clients, ProKo has established itself as a trusted partner in the consulting industry.

The ProKo Agency showcases the power of niching down and focusing on a specific market segment. By specializing in independent consultants, Liz has created a brand that is synonymous with quality and expertise in this area. Her agency serves as a model for other solopreneurs looking to build a successful business by catering to a specific need or audience.

PICA: Empowering Solo Business Owners

Building on her success with the ProKo Agency, Liz launched Professional Independent Consultants of America (PICA) in 2018. PICA is an educational organization and community that empowers people to start and grow their own solo businesses. Recognizing that many aspiring solopreneurs lack the knowledge and resources they need to succeed, Liz created PICA to provide them with the tools, training, and support they need to thrive.

PICA offers a range of resources, including online courses, workshops, coaching programs, and a vibrant online community. These resources cover a wide range of topics, from business planning and marketing to financial management and legal compliance. PICA also provides opportunities for members to connect with each other, share ideas, and learn from each other's experiences. The sense of community and support that PICA fosters is invaluable for solopreneurs, who often work in isolation.

PICA reflects Liz's passion for helping others achieve their entrepreneurial dreams. It is a testament to her belief that anyone can succeed as a solopreneur with the right knowledge, support, and mindset. Through PICA, Liz is empowering a new generation of solo business owners to create successful and fulfilling careers.

Key Insights from Liz's Book: "Succeeding as a Solopreneur"

Liz's book, "Succeeding as a Solopreneur: Six Keys to Taking the Leap, Winning Clients, and Building Wealth," is a comprehensive guide for anyone considering or currently navigating the solopreneurial path. The book distills Liz's years of experience into actionable advice and practical strategies.

The six key areas covered in the book are:

1. Mindset: Developing the right mindset for success, including self-belief, resilience, and a growth-oriented approach.
2. Skills: Identifying and honing the skills necessary to succeed as a solopreneur, including marketing, sales, and financial management.
3. Strategy: Creating a clear business strategy that aligns with your goals and values.
4. Systems: Implementing efficient systems and processes to manage your time, finances, and client relationships.
5. Support: Building a strong support system of mentors, advisors, and fellow solopreneurs.
6. Sustainability: Creating a sustainable business model that allows you to generate consistent income and avoid burnout.

The book emphasizes the importance of planning, preparation, and continuous learning. It also highlights the need to adapt to changing market conditions and to stay ahead of the curve. "Succeeding as a Solopreneur" is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to build a successful and fulfilling solopreneurial career.

Time Management Strategies for Solopreneur Moms

Time management is arguably the most critical skill for single mom solopreneurs. With limited time and competing demands, it's essential to prioritize tasks, eliminate distractions, and maximize productivity. Here are some practical time management strategies:

• Time Blocking: Allocate specific blocks of time for specific tasks, such as client work, marketing, or family time.
• Prioritization: Use the Eisenhower Matrix (urgent/important) to prioritize tasks and focus on what truly matters.
• Batching: Group similar tasks together to minimize context switching and improve efficiency.
• Delegation: Outsource tasks that can be done by others, such as administrative work or social media management.
• Elimination: Identify and eliminate time-wasting activities, such as excessive social media use or unproductive meetings.
• Utilize Technology: Take advantage of project management tools, scheduling apps, and other technologies to streamline your workflow.

It's also important to be realistic about what you can accomplish in a day and to build in buffer time for unexpected events. Don't be afraid to say no to commitments that don't align with your priorities.

Financial Tips for Single Mom Business Owners

Financial stability is a key concern for single mom solopreneurs. Managing income, expenses, and savings requires careful planning and discipline. Here are some financial tips:

• Create a Budget: Track your income and expenses to understand where your money is going.
• Separate Business and Personal Finances: Open a separate bank account and credit card for your business.
• Set Financial Goals: Define your financial goals, such as paying off debt, saving for retirement, or building an emergency fund.
• Manage Cash Flow: Track your invoices and payments to ensure you have sufficient cash flow to cover your expenses.
• Invest in Your Business: Allocate resources to marketing, training, and other activities that will help your business grow.
• Seek Professional Advice: Consult with a financial advisor to develop a comprehensive financial plan.

It's also important to protect yourself with insurance, such as health insurance and liability insurance. Consider setting up a retirement account, even if it's just a small amount each month.

Building a Supportive Community

Solopreneurship can be isolating, especially for single moms. Building a supportive community is essential for emotional well-being, professional growth, and access to resources. Here are some ways to build a supportive community:

• Join Online Communities: Participate in online forums, social media groups, and other online communities for solopreneurs and single moms.
• Attend Networking Events: Attend industry events, workshops, and conferences to meet other professionals in your field.
• Connect with Mentors: Seek out mentors who can provide guidance, support, and advice.
• Join a Mastermind Group: Join a mastermind group with other solopreneurs to share ideas, troubleshoot challenges, and hold each other accountable.
• Volunteer: Volunteer your time and skills to organizations that you care about.
• Nurture Existing Relationships: Stay connected with family, friends, and former colleagues.

A strong support system can provide emotional support, practical advice, and valuable connections. Don't be afraid to reach out for help when you need it.

Call to Action: Connect with Liz Steblay and PICA

Inspired by Liz's journey and the valuable insights she shared? I encourage you to connect with her and PICA to learn more. You can find Liz at SixKeys.info and on LinkedIn. Explore the resources and community offered by PICA to empower your own solopreneurial journey.

Gratitude and Closing Remarks

A huge thank you to Liz Steblay for sharing her inspiring story and valuable insights with us. Her journey is a testament to the resilience and determination of single mom solopreneurs. Remember to check out the full conversation I had with Liz Steblay on The Authors Alley with Dori DeCarlo for even more insights. And remember, you are not alone. There is a community of support available to help you thrive in your solopreneurial journey. Until next time, keep building your dreams!