Moms Take Workplace Into Their Homes

Have you noticed talking with your neighbors, family and friends in the past year, how many of them have gone into business for themselves it seems?  I have been in awe of the some of the women I know who have taken the leap into starting a business on their own and done an amazing job succeeding at it.  This is no small feat in today's world with the demands on a mother's time.

 Margot Cidulka, a co-founder of MC Squared, a marketing consulting firm based out of her home in Barrington, said her business just came about naturally. "It actually just evolved.  I'd been freelancing with former colleagues, and we found we complemented each other nicely, so we made it official."  

When asked about the pros and cons of being your own boss and working from home, she added "pros include flexibility, comfort, and efficiency (no commute, etc.); however, my partners and I 'grew up' in dynamic office environments, so we tend to miss the people and energy in that," she said. "Also, depending on one's childcare situation, the lines can blur between being 'on' and 'off' work.  Smartphones are key to staying on top of our business, but we can feel tethered at times, too."

 "Like most working women I talk with, balance is the greatest challenge for me.  At my worst, I can feel like no part of my life gets the attention it deserves because I'm spread too thin, but on others it's all clicking and it feels great!"

Careers like being a sales representative for a clothing or jewelry line are popular among mothers who want to work from home as well.  Giving them the flexibility to care for their kids, while pursuing their professional goals.

Ms. Cidulka offers this advice to other moms looking to start their own business "consider carefully the time you're willing to devote to the business.  While part time may not seem like a big deal, it's amazing how it can effect your household.  The whole family needs to be on board to make it work. "