The Freelance Mum

The Freelance Mum Plot Summary

Introduction

Have you ever felt trapped in the 9-to-5 grind, struggling to balance your career ambitions with family responsibilities? Many professionals, especially parents, find themselves at this crossroads - wanting fulfilling work but needing the flexibility that traditional employment rarely offers. The freelance path offers a compelling alternative, but it comes with its own set of challenges and uncertainties. This journey to professional freedom isn't always straightforward. You'll face questions about finding clients, managing your time, setting appropriate rates, and maintaining boundaries between work and personal life. However, the rewards of building a career on your own terms - one that accommodates your family needs, personal interests, and financial goals - make these challenges worth navigating. With strategic planning, determination, and the right guidance, you can create a thriving freelance career that brings both professional satisfaction and life balance.

Chapter 1: Discover Your Unique Freelance Path

Freelancing isn't a one-size-fits-all career choice. It's about identifying your unique skills, passions, and circumstances to create a career that works specifically for you. The most successful freelancers don't simply replicate someone else's business model; they forge their own path based on their strengths and market needs. Consider Francesca McConchie's journey. Before becoming a freelancer, she worked as a personal assistant but was unhappy in her role, wanted more time with her children, and was tired of paying expensive childcare fees. She had been a passionate baker for years and received many compliments on the cakes she made for her children's birthday parties. When attendees at these parties began asking her to make cakes for them, she saw an opportunity. Francesca started baking alongside her PA job, and when she realized how little she was making after childcare costs, she decided to launch Cake of Dreams, her one-woman baking business. Now Francesca works while her children are at school - handling admin and emails on Mondays, then baking sponges and preparing different aspects of the cakes later in the week. Though she sometimes needs to get up early on weekends to decorate cakes, the arrangement gives her the family time she craved. Her schedule has evolved naturally as her children have grown older, becoming more manageable as they became more independent. When considering your freelance direction, think about your current skills, but also hobbies or interests that could become profitable. Anna Jones, bestselling author and columnist, designed her career for variety because she gets bored with routine. "I've spent my whole life trying to avoid routine," she says, noting that she thrives on having every day be different. This approach might work for you too if you value diverse challenges. To find your path, start by envisioning your ideal working life: How many days would you work? What would you be doing? Where would you work from? How much would you earn? Create a visual representation of these dreams - write them down, draw them, or make a collage. Committing your intentions to paper makes them more likely to materialize, providing clear focus and direction. Remember that your freelance career may evolve through different phases. You might begin with "money work" that pays the bills while building toward your passion projects. As Helen Thorn of the Scummy Mummies comedy duo advises: "My number-one top tip is to be passionate and love what you do... Working freelance is wonderful for its flexibility, but you also face other challenges in terms of irregular income, hustling for work and rejection."

Chapter 2: Master Your Time and Create Effective Routines

Time management becomes both more critical and more complex when you're a freelancing parent. Without the structure of a traditional workplace, you'll need to create routines that maximize productivity while accommodating family needs. Successful freelancers don't leave their schedules to chance - they design them with intention. Arianna Huffington, who co-founded The Huffington Post from her kitchen table before selling it to AOL for $315 million, has a morning routine that's become legendary among productivity enthusiasts. She avoids electronic devices first thing, practices gratitude and intention-setting, spends 30 minutes either doing yoga or riding her exercise bike, meditates for 30 minutes, showers, gets dressed, and enjoys a Bulletproof coffee. This structured start sets the tone for her entire day. For parents with young children, early morning hours can be particularly valuable. Candice Brathwaite, writer and co-founder of Make Motherhood Diverse, starts her day at 4:30 a.m. when her husband gets up for work. As a light sleeper, she rises too and uses these quiet hours to journal, write her to-do list, and work on her book before her four-year-old daughter wakes up. If you can muster the energy to rise before your children, having this alone time before the day's chaos begins can be tremendously beneficial. Throughout your workday, dividing time into focused chunks can improve efficiency. Depending on available time, you might work in one-hour blocks or even 15-minute segments if childcare is limited. Planning exactly what you'll tackle each day helps maintain focus and creates a sense of accomplishment when tasks are completed. Sarah Turner, author of The Unmumsy Mum, says: "Freelance works best for me when I set myself a task list and schedule for the coming week... As I don't have a boss breathing down my neck, I find it important to set myself goals." Remember to incorporate breaks into your schedule. Dr. Jessamy Hibberd, clinical psychologist and author, emphasizes self-care as essential for sustainable productivity: "It's really important to me that I look after myself. I try not to rush and to make time for the things I enjoy." Her daily practices include gratitude, exercise, time outdoors, and prioritizing sleep. These aren't luxuries but necessities for maintaining the energy and focus that freelancing demands. When planning your day, consider your body's natural rhythms. Many women find their productivity fluctuates with their menstrual cycle. Anna Jones charts her cycles and plans her work accordingly: "Being more aware has made me realize there are times in the month when I shouldn't be giving a talk to 500 people." She uses the first week of her cycle for generating ideas, the second week for cementing plans, the third for tying up loose ends, and takes a break during the week before her period.

Chapter 3: Set Your Worth and Negotiate with Confidence

One of the most challenging aspects of freelancing is determining what to charge for your services. Many freelancers, especially women, undervalue their work and expertise. Yet setting appropriate rates is essential not only for financial stability but also for professional respect. Remember: you are of value, and your work is of value. When deciding on your freelance rate, consider both what you would like to charge and what clients will be willing to pay. Calculate your monthly expenses - including bills, childcare, office costs, taxes, and savings - then divide by your working days to find your minimum day rate. For example, if your monthly expenses total $1,500 and you work two days per week, your base day rate would be around $188. However, this doesn't account for taxes, time off, equipment costs, or savings, so you might double it to $375 or more, depending on your experience and industry standards. Holly June Smith, a freelance celebrant and coach, recommends that every freelancer maintain an "emergency fund" equivalent to three months of expenses. "Having that financial buffer has been used for all sorts of things like training, car repairs, flights home for funerals," she explains. This safety net provides security during slower periods and allows you to make business decisions from a position of strength rather than desperation. When negotiating with clients, asking what their budget is before quoting your rate can prevent awkward situations. One freelancer shared how she lost a potential client by immediately stating her day rate, which was too high for the client's budget. Had she first asked about the available budget, they might have found a compromise, such as reducing the scope of work to fit what the client could afford. Confidence plays a crucial role in successful negotiation. Sheryl Sandberg's book "Lean In" discusses how women often hold themselves back in professional settings. While men tend to focus on the qualifications they do have when applying for jobs, women frequently fixate on what they lack. This hesitation extends to negotiating pay. Practice presenting your rates with confidence, knowing they reflect your experience, skills, and the value you bring. A powerful real-world example comes from a tweet by designer Meagan Fisher Couldwell, who shared: "Real thing that just happened to me: I quoted a client a rate, and the project manager responded with 'how about we triple that, so it better matches what we've paid our male designers for the same work?'" Her conclusion: "Female designers: ASK FOR MORE MONEY." This experience highlights how freelancers, especially women, often undervalue their services compared to market rates. Remember that as your experience grows, your rates should increase accordingly. Regularly reassess your pricing to ensure it reflects your current skill level and market position. And don't be afraid to say no to work that doesn't meet your minimum requirements - turning down underpaid projects creates space for better opportunities.

Chapter 4: Establish Strong Boundaries Between Work and Family

Creating clear boundaries between work and family life is essential for freelance parents. Without the physical separation that comes with leaving home for an office, work can easily bleed into family time and vice versa, leading to feelings of always being "on call" for both roles and never fully present for either. Sarah Turner, founder of The Unmumsy Mum blog and bestselling author, describes this challenge: "I never feel like I am doing either job particularly well, as I have a terrible habit of checking work emails when I'm with the kids and checking that the kids are all right when I'm supposed to be working." She attributes part of this problem to not having a separate workspace at home, which means her children know she's nearby and often come in to disturb her. Establishing physical boundaries can help create mental ones. Kelly Seymour, silversmith and founder of Cult of Youth, recommends creating a dedicated work station, even if it's just a corner of a room. "Having a space in your home to transform into a work corner - enabling you to turn your back to whatever is going on behind it - is a real asset," she advises. When you're at your station, you're working; when you leave that space, work is done. Time boundaries are equally important. Dr. Jessamy Hibberd splits her week clearly: "Three long days working (with some drop-offs/picks-ups with the kids) and then Thursday-Sunday with my family. I do work when they're asleep when needed, but I don't check emails/work when I'm with them. I think I find it easier to do one thing at a time. When I'm with the kids I'm with the kids." Transitioning between work and family modes can be challenging. Try these strategies: Make yourself a cup of tea and focus on it while you drink, signaling the end of one activity and the beginning of another. Use a relaxation app for a five-minute reset. Allocate the last 10 minutes of work or childcare to transition - prepare mentally for the switch. Leave your phone at your desk when finishing work to resist the temptation to check emails while with your children. Childcare arrangements form another critical boundary. Courtney Adamo, co-founder of Babyccino Kids and mother of five, discovered that while multitasking is possible, it's not optimal: "While we (women/mums) are good at multi-tasking and can totally cook dinner, answer emails and hold a baby all at the same time, I have learned from experience that I work better and feel happier when I focus on one task at a time and give it my full attention." For important business calls or interviews, plan for uninterrupted time. One freelancer learned this lesson the hard way when attempting a podcast interview while caring for her toddler and infant. The result was chaotic and unusable. For the second attempt, she arranged for her mother to watch the children while she walked around the block with headphones, resulting in a focused, articulate interview. Remember that boundaries need regular reassessment as your children grow and your business evolves. What works when you have an infant will change as your children enter school and develop more independence. Stay flexible but intentional about protecting both your work time and your family time.

Chapter 5: Build Your Brand and Stand Out Online

In today's digital landscape, your online presence is often the first impression potential clients will have of your business. Building a cohesive, authentic brand across platforms isn't optional - it's essential for freelance success. Your brand represents who you are, what you stand for, and why clients should choose you over competitors. Carrie Anne Roberts, founder of Mère Soeur clothing and accessories brand, started one of the first "mama merch" businesses, selling t-shirts, totes, and badges for mothers. She's built a loyal Instagram following while being a single mom to her young son, River. Carrie emphasizes thinking deeply about what your brand means to you and what you want it to mean to others: "Keeping your goals and your message in mind will help you stay on track when doubt creeps in or when you're making difficult decisions." Your visual identity matters significantly. Freelance graphic designer Emily Brooks explains, "A logo represents your business in any format - and people will recognise it as your stamp. It's like a barcode, and it enables people to track you across all your platforms." Even if your logo is just one letter, the font, color, and shape will eventually become your visual signature. When designing your brand's look, consider how it represents your values and the impression you want to make. Social media has become an indispensable tool for freelancers. Sarah Akwisombe, founder of No Bull Business School, shares her top tips for growing a following: "Provide value. So often I see people creating accounts that are purely there to have people fawn over them... The rest of us normal people need to actually add value to other people's lives in order to grow a following." She also emphasizes authenticity and creating a strong visual aesthetic that instantly communicates your values. For Instagram specifically, consistency in your visual presentation helps create a clear branding message. Coral Atkinson, founder of Velveteen Babies with 72,000+ followers, advises: "Just straightening your image if it's a bit wonky, lightening an image if it's a bit dark, cast aside blurry captures, and use VSCO, A Color Story or Photoshop PS Express to gently edit." She also recommends making meaningful conversation in captions and on other people's posts, as Instagram is about community, not just posting and leaving. When it comes to Twitter, Emma Simpson, a former broadcast journalist now managing social media for small businesses, suggests following accounts in your field and creating lists to group contacts. She recommends that your tweets should be approximately 30% about you and 70% about other people, businesses, ideas, or studies. "Twitter is great for developing relationships with industry people. If you respond to a tweet, this may be acknowledged with a 'like' or response. It's opened up communication between people starting out and people who are at the top of their game." For blogging, Emma Paton of The Finlay Fox blog advises writing about what truly interests you: "Write about what you're passionate about, as it's a lot of work and you need to have plenty of ideas." She also suggests being brave, networking with other bloggers for support, and remaining open to adapting your approach based on audience response while staying authentic to your values. Remember that building your online presence takes time and consistency. As Sarah Turner of The Unmumsy Mum says: "My advice for anyone who wants to grow a social media following is to ignore every single tip, trick and 'best practice' you've been told is the formula for a successful social media presence and go your own way... Also, never try and imitate somebody else. If it's not your natural voice it will feel awkward."

Chapter 6: Network Strategically to Grow Your Client Base

Networking might conjure images of awkward small talk and business card exchanges, but at its core, it's simply about building meaningful connections. For freelancers, these relationships can become the lifeblood of your business, bringing in referrals, collaborations, and opportunities you might never find through online marketing alone. Alice Olins and Phanella Mayall Fine, founders of The Step Up Club, explain: "Networking is just conversations with a purpose. So many of us get hung up on the word 'networking' that we give up before we've even got going." They recommend starting by assessing the network you already have, which is likely much larger than you realize. Your existing connections span multiple spheres: school contacts, former colleagues, extended family, gym buddies, parents from your children's activities, and many more. When approaching networking, remember that quality trumps quantity. At one blogging awards ceremony, a young woman introduced herself to another attendee, chatted for five minutes, then announced she was "moving around the room." While efficient, this approach failed to build a lasting connection. Contrast this with the story of Danielle Pender and Annie Ridout, who met at a playgroup when their children were the same age. After chatting naturally, they discovered shared professional interests. This organic connection developed into both a friendship and a mutually beneficial professional relationship. Jenny Scott, founder of Mothers Meetings and mother of three, offers practical advice: "Remember everyone is in a similar position to you. It may feel as though every mother in the room/playground/soft play centre knows each other, but they don't! And the chances are they feel just as scared and anxious as you do." She recommends being honest about your experiences and asking questions about others, as shared vulnerability often creates stronger bonds than polished presentations. Networking isn't limited to formal events. Stylist Bertie Bowen suggests: "Reach out to those you admire who are in the same area of work you are in or want to be in. Talk to your neighbors, talk to that woman in your yoga class who seems cool, actually talk to everyone - you never know who is going to have advice or give you inspiration or know someone who could help you get a foot in the door." Online networking can be equally valuable. Frankie Tortora started Doing It For The Kids, a Facebook group for freelancing parents that quickly grew to over 1,000 members. The group provides a space where freelancers can ask questions, share experiences, and support each other regardless of their social media status or profession. Creating or joining such communities can expand your network while providing valuable insights and emotional support. The Step Up Club recommends learning to feel comfortable with an "asymmetrical ask" - requesting something without having anything immediate to offer in return. While many people, especially women, feel uncomfortable with this dynamic, it's an essential networking skill. Remember that just because you don't have something to give back immediately doesn't mean you won't be able to return the favor in the future. Finally, Suzy Ashworth emphasizes the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people: "You are the sum of the five people you spend the most time with. Who are you spending your time with? People who believe in themselves, are embracing success, who are not afraid of acknowledging their ambitions? If you aren't, change your crew."

Chapter 7: Overcome Challenges and Stay Motivated

The freelance journey inevitably includes obstacles, from irregular income and client rejection to the isolation of working alone and the constant juggle of family responsibilities. Developing resilience and strategies to maintain motivation through these challenges is crucial for long-term success. Holly Tucker, founder of Holly & Co and co-founder of Not on the High Street, launched her now multi-million-pound business from her kitchen table in 2006 while caring for her young son. "He was with me, sleeping under the table," she recalls. "I look back on those days with such fondness, because he grew with me and my business in those early years." Despite this sweet memory, she acknowledges the reality: "Building Not on the High Street was so demanding, as was this tiny baby I'd just brought into the world. Both needed my constant attention." Rejection is another challenge every freelancer faces. When pitching for work, most proposals won't succeed - but persistence pays off. One freelancer describes how she initially felt devastated when the Guardian didn't respond to her article pitches. Over time, she developed thicker skin, realizing that 99 percent of pitches won't get the job, but that 1 percent will. She learned not to be disheartened when people say no, understanding it doesn't mean her idea isn't good enough - just that it's not right for that particular outlet at that moment. Isolation can be particularly difficult for those accustomed to office environments. Sali Hughes, author and columnist, notes: "Lots of women really struggle when they go freelance with the fact that they're not in a team anymore. They don't have those water-cooler moments." She suggests embracing social media as a substitute for office interaction: "After my first baby, it was the isolation that made me go mad. I didn't know anyone with a baby, so I was really lonely. But after my second baby, there was Facebook - then Twitter. So I had people to talk to." For many freelance parents, the mental load of constantly switching between work and family responsibilities creates significant stress. Cherry Healey, BBC documentary presenter and single mother to two children, received valuable advice from a friend: "This is the rush hour of your life. If you're doing a commute at rush hour, do you try to do a spreadsheet?" This realization helped her accept that during this intense life phase, simply managing work and family was enough - she didn't need to maintain a perfect social life too. Self-care isn't optional but essential for sustained motivation. Courtney Adamo moved her family from London to Byron Bay, Australia, taking full advantage of freelance flexibility. She explains: "I feel so recharged and better prepared for work and motherhood when I have allowed myself some 'me' time. As mothers, we have so many things to think about - our kids, our jobs, our homes, our husbands/partners, etc. Taking good care of ourselves can become the lowest priority. But it's actually so important." Practical strategies for staying motivated include taking breaks for fresh air and movement, using apps like Freedom to block distracting websites, and planning your time realistically. Emily Brooks, designer and psychotherapist, advises: "If you're feeling distracted, there will be a reason. Perhaps you can see a pile of laundry out the corner of your eye. I decide to mentally set it aside until the kids are in bed." Holly Tucker shares three essential tips: "Book time in your diary for you - schedule it as you would a business meeting, and stick to it at all costs; Know your numbers - keep on top of every receipt and expense; Don't be afraid to delegate - in life and business. It's OK to fall back on your network for help." Remember that freelancing isn't about achieving perfection but creating a sustainable balance that works for you and your family. As one freelancer reflects: "The freelance mum life isn't perfect, it's not the answer to all mum-work balance issues. Sometimes I think: why am I doing this? If I had full-time childcare, life would be easier and I'd be much richer. But then I remind myself that I'd lose out on being around while my children are young."

Summary

The journey to freelance mastery isn't about perfection - it's about creating a career that accommodates your unique vision, family needs, and professional aspirations. Throughout this exploration, we've seen how successful freelancers like Anna Jones, Holly Tucker, and countless others have built thriving careers while maintaining presence in their children's lives. As Annie Ridout eloquently puts it: "I'm not always organized. I don't always manage to be productive during my children's naps. The freelance mum life isn't perfect. Sometimes I feel so stressed, I cry. But then I remind myself that I'd lose out on being around while my children are young." Today, take the first step toward your freelance journey by defining what success means to you. Is it financial independence, creative fulfillment, flexibility for family time, or all of these? Write down your vision in concrete terms - including your ideal working hours, income targets, and the boundaries you'll establish. This clarity will serve as your compass when challenges arise and decisions must be made. Remember, freelancing isn't just about earning a living - it's about designing a life that honors all aspects of who you are and what matters most to you.

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Annie Ridout

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