I really do love what I do.  I love BURU and the amazing community of mothers that it connects me to and introduces me to on a daily basis.  That said, not everyday is a dream.  In fact, I would say that most days are in the trenches.  And though I know that is the nature of a start-up with a grass roots effort, it doesn't make it any less stressful.  I hold BURU to the same standard of the majors - the companies with rooms full of employees and big back-up bank accounts.  I hold it to that standard for myself (because I want it to be the best) and I hold it to that standard for all of our #BURUmamas who expect the best as well.  We don't always get it right, but we inch forward everyday.

I absolutely love this quote about the creative process.  I find that it describes my daily swings of entrepreneurialism to a T!  Of course there are many days (sadly) that I don't make it to the end of the list, but I use that as motivation to make my way there the following day.  Start-ups are certainly a day-at-a-day kind of deal.  Everyday presents itself with a new challenge, a new victory, or a new road block.  The key is to keep going.  One thing is certain:  there is ZERO chance of success if you give up.

For mom start-ups, there are a few additional challenges.  One of mine weighs in at about 35 pounds and just learned to put on her own shoes.  When everything you earn goes back into the business to make it grow, it makes it difficult to prioritize your work load.  It's a classic chicken before the egg scenario.  How can you justify all the costs of extra childcare or the cost of traveling for work with your tots-in-tow (consistently a significant addition) or even the cost of eating out more often if you are not bringing home a proper paycheck?  And on the flip side, how can you get to the point of a proper paycheck if you don't risk it all and do what needs to get done? 

One this is for sure - you cannot do it on your OWN!  I personally need a big helping of God on a daily basis to keep me off the ledge.  Only He can center me.  I could also not do this without Brett's endless support - emotionally and financially.  He is my biggest fan and loves me through the highs, the lows, and the incredibly irrational thoughts that come with starting a business.  Nor could I do this without our family, particularly my mom who comes to our rescue anytime to help take care of Olive so that her life remains as seamless as possible.  Last but certainly not least, I could not do this without the super talented (and least millennial "millennial" that I have ever met) Allyssa Green who took a leap of faith and moved to Salt Lake City with us for BURU. 

The key is to surround yourself with incredible people who also believe in your vision.  I know in my gut that I got this right.  Now, its just about all the other pieces falling into place and hustling until the job is done.  Although, in reality, it will never be done.  There will always be another mountain to climb.  And wouldn't life be boring if there wasn't!

One other thought...don't forget to laugh - at yourself, at your bad luck, and when all the pieces fall into place and you can't even believe how blessed you are!

Any mamas reading this who are in the middle of a start-up?  I would love to hear from you.  How are you balancing it all?