Juggling Caregiving, Entrepreneurship, and Self-Care: A Guide for Business Leaders
When I first stepped into the role of caregiver, I never imagined how deeply it would shape every aspect of my life—my relationships, emotional well-being, and the way I approach running my business. My mother, Rita, who is now 95, has been my anchor and my inspiration. Her care has been my full-time responsibility since she moved in with me during the pandemic. Navigating this journey while leading my consulting business has been one of my life’s most challenging yet rewarding chapters.
For fellow entrepreneurs and thought leaders who are juggling caregiving with professional and personal obligations, I want to share strategies and insights that have helped me thrive in this unique balancing act.
Integrating Caregiving with Business Strategy
As the founder of Deborah Mitchell Media & Associates, my work revolves around crafting effective business strategies and helping clients unlock their potential through storytelling, consulting, and video marketing. But caregiving has added layers of complexity to my daily routine that even the best strategy sessions couldn’t prepare me for.
The key has been accepting that balance isn’t about perfection—it’s about prioritization. I’ve leaned into tools and systems that allow me to manage my time effectively.
Calendar apps, task management software, and even automating parts of my workflow have been lifesavers. Delegation has also been critical, not only in my business but in caregiving. Hiring part-time caregiving support and relying on meal delivery services are just two examples of how I’ve created more space in my day.
For business owners, my advice is to build flexibility into your business strategy. Be transparent with clients about your availability and boundaries. By setting clear expectations, you protect your time and preserve your professional reputation.
Maintaining a Social Life While Caregiving
As entrepreneurs, our social networks are often intertwined with our professional circles. However, caregiving, especially for an elderly parent, can make it challenging to maintain those connections.
For me, moving from New York to Orlando during the pandemic meant leaving behind a deeply rooted network of friends and colleagues. While I’ve established relationships here, they are not the same as the bonds I built over the years in the media world. I’ve learned to cherish even brief moments of connection, whether it’s a quick coffee with a friend or attending a virtual networking event.
To stay socially active while caregiving, I recommend:
- Scheduling “mini-connections”: Short phone calls, video chats, or lunch breaks with friends.
- Relying on caregiving support: Whether it’s a sibling, a paid caregiver, or a friend stepping in for an hour, these moments of respite allow you to recharge and nurture your relationships.
- Blending social and professional life: Attend industry events or meetups where you can maintain professional visibility while connecting with like-minded individuals.
The Importance of Self-Care in Thought Leadership
Running a business, providing thought leadership, and caregiving require mental and emotional stamina. If you’re not taking care of yourself, it’s impossible to show up fully for anyone else.
My non-negotiable self-care routines include fitness, journaling, and moments of mindfulness. A brisk walk in the morning sets the tone for my day, and journaling at night allows me to reflect and decompress.
Self-care isn’t just about rest—it’s about recharging so you can bring your best to both your caregiving and your business. I encourage fellow entrepreneurs to schedule time for themselves with the same commitment they show their clients.
Consulting as a Tool for Balance
One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned through this journey is the power of consulting—not just as a career but as a mindset. When you consult, you’re in the business of problem-solving. Applying those same principles to caregiving has allowed me to find solutions that work for my family while staying productive in my business.
Consulting also helps you maintain your professional identity during caregiving. I’ve kept my career momentum by continuing to position myself as a thought leader in video marketing and business strategy, even when caregiving has demanded more of my time.
Balancing Business, Caregiving, and Joy
The intersection of caregiving, social life, and entrepreneurship is a delicate balance. It’s not always smooth, but it’s always worth it. I’ve learned to find joy in the smallest moments—whether it’s a quiet breakfast with my mother, a breakthrough with a client, or a heartfelt conversation with a friend.
To my fellow caregiver entrepreneurs, I say this: embrace the unpredictability.
Success isn’t just about achieving milestones; it’s about creating a life that reflects your values. Whether you’re caring for a loved one, leading a team, or forging new relationships, every moment is an opportunity to grow.
Caregiving may have reshaped my journey, but it hasn’t defined it. Instead, it has deepened my empathy, sharpened my problem-solving skills, and reminded me of the importance of connection. And for that, I am endlessly grateful.
Lights, Camera, Action! It’s time to tell your story in a way that inspires and converts! Check out Debbie’s take on using authentic video content to create a following on our YouTube channel.
