The drive: What challenges have you overcome?
As with many new businesses, maintaining a work-life balance has been an ongoing challenge, especially when my son was very little. Being only one person, I quickly realised that my ideas would take some time to materialise, and I would need to prioritise between reaching more parents or creating a new resource guide. To overcome this, I needed to set boundaries, establish clear priorities and recognise the importance of self-care to sustain long-term productivity.
Another significant challenge was the fear of failure. It was a constant worry that my efforts might not meet expectations or that any setbacks would hold me back. With growing confidence and breaking through self-doubt, I realised that even if there are failures, I can use these as stepping stones and embrace it is a learning opportunity. While sometimes I need to make a conscious effort to acknowledge my capabilities and focus on achievements, the rewards have greatly been worth it.
For better or worse: What are the pros and cons of running your own business?
There is nothing like running your own business! The elation of your first milestones and the pressure that it’s all on you.
The biggest pros include working from home, flexibility with family life and the feeling you get when your client’s baby sleeps through the night! I enjoy being my own boss and the ability to create my own schedule – an added benefit is not doing nightshift! While I predominately work online, I hand-make my sleep aids, called ‘scent soothers’, which provides a slightly creative outlet for my business.
Cons mainly have to do with the actual business side of running your own business. It can be stressful reaching out and looking for more clients or following up with potential customers without being overwhelming. I also still work as a nurse, so I have a lot of planning to do around shiftwork and making sure I am available enough to clients.
Hopes and dreams: What next?
My next goal is to offer tailored support to premature babies or babies with feeding needs as their milestones can be slightly different to the norm and support can be limited for this group.
I am also looking to grow my online presence and will be launching more sleep aids soon. This includes creating more Scent Soothers for families and introducing them early in the newborn period to highlight the importance of scent and bonding.
My dream would be to open a studio office where families could come and learn settling techniques, receive sleep support, and provide more face-to-face sessions. Ultimately, I want to help all families feel confident and supported during their first year and reduce anxieties relating to sleep.
Visit the Little Sleepers Consulting website to find out more, and follow them on Facebook and Instagram.
