My advice for being a mom of two, running a coffee shop, and managing life as a full-time content creator
Hey there, mamas! Life is a whirlwind, am I right? Between juggling two little ones (one who is neurodivergent like her mama), running my coffee shop, pouring my heart into my content creation business, and the overall depressing state of the world, there are days when I feel like I’m running on pure caffeine and willpower. But over time, I’ve learned a few things about managing the chaos, caring for my mental health, and creating a life where I don’t just survive but thrive.
I’m by NO means an expert, but if you’re anything like me— trying to do all the things while maintaining some semblance of self-care—this post is for you. Here’s my advice on how to find balance, even when life gets a little messy.
1. Embrace the chaos, but make space for calm
Let’s be real: raising kids is no walk in the park. And when one of your little ones is neurodivergent, it can come with a unique set of challenges that require extra patience, flexibility, and understanding— especially if you are managing your own neurodivergence on top. Some days are tough, but the love and joy they bring make every moment worth it.
I’ve found that embracing the chaos— leaning into it, not fighting it—helps. That said, making space for calm is essential. For me, this looks like carving out moments in the day when I can breathe. It’s those five minutes before the kids wake up, a quiet cup of coffee at the shop before customers roll in, or even just turning on my latest tv binge after getting the kiddos to bed. Find your little pockets of peace, mamas, and hold onto them.
2. Build a routine (but keep it flexible)
As a full-time content creator, consistency is key. The Instagram algorithm demands it, and my followers appreciate it, too. But as a mom? Flexibility is the name of the game. I try to keep a schedule for creating and posting content, but I don’t beat myself up if I need to switch things up based on the kids’ needs.
One trick that works for me is batch content creation. I’ll set aside time once a week to plan, shoot, and draft content for the week ahead. This gives me a little more breathing room during the day-to-day craziness.
3. Prioritize mental health (yours & theirs)
Parenting is already an emotional rollercoaster, but when one of your children is neurodivergent, you’re navigating a whole new track. I’ve found that supporting my child’s mental and emotional health is just as important as taking care of my own. Whether it’s therapy appointments, working with educators, or just being present for my little’s unique needs, it’s a journey of learning and adapting.
But don‘t forget about you, mama. I’ve learned to be proactive about my own mental health. Therapy, journaling, and taking the necessary time for myself (even if it’s just a walk or a hot shower) have become non-negotiables. And honestly? It makes me a better mom, wife, and business owner when I’m taking care of my mind and heart.
4. Get help (and don’t feel guilty about it)
Let’s talk about the unsung heroes: your support system. I used to feel guilty about asking for help—like I had to do it all myself to be a “good mom.” But let me tell you, whether it’s asking my partner to take over bedtime or hiring extra help at the coffee shop, letting people support me has made all the difference.
Especially as a neurodiverse family, our schedule can get demanding. On those hard days, I lean into my community—whether it’s therapists, family, or trusted friends. You don’t have to do it all on your own, and, more likely than not, your village wants to support you in any way they can. It just takes some opening up and a vulnerable discussion of what assistance you’d benefit from.
5. Practice self-care—REAL self-care
We hear it all the time: “Take care of yourself, mama!” But real self-care isn’t always bubble baths and spa days. Sometimes, it’s making sure you eat a meal before 2 p.m., or saying “no” to something that feels like too much. It’s getting enough sleep (as much as the kiddos allow), drinking water, and giving yourself grace on the days you feel like you’ve dropped all the balls.
For me, self-care also means making my physical health a priority. Whether it’s squeezing in a quick workout or prepping meals that make me feel good (low-carb, high-protein options, anyone?), it’s all part of keeping my body and mind strong for my kids—and for myself.
6. Celebrate the small wins
In the world of content creation and social media, we’re always pushing for more— more followers, more engagement, more likes. But I’ve learned to celebrate the small wins in every part of my life. Maybe it’s a sweet comment from a follower, or a milestone one of my kiddos reaches, or even a smooth morning where I didn’t forget someone’s snack. Those little moments are worth celebrating, too.
Last week, I had someone send me a message saying that they were new to the city and were thankful for me, the tips about Chicago on my page, and the neuro-inclusive storytimes I have at the coffee shop— that it’s truly helped her in this new chapter of her life. It’s comments like that that will resonate in my memories more than anything and really reaffirm why I do this.
Motherhood, business, and life don’t always come with big wins every day, but if you can find joy in the small moments, you’re already winning.
7. Keep your passions alive
Owning a coffee shop was a dream I had long before becoming a mom, and running it while being a content creator is a labor of love. It’s important to keep your passion alive, even as life throws challenges your way. For me, that means finding joy in creating new content, connecting with my customers, and building a brand that I’m proud of. When you love what you do, it doesn’t feel like a job, it feels like purpose.
Final Thoughts
Mamas, life is busy, it’s messy, and it’s hard—but it’s also beautiful. Juggling motherhood, work, and everything else is no small feat, but you are doing it. You’re showing up every day for your kids, for your passions, and for yourself. And that, my friend, is more than enough.
Keep going, keep thriving, and don’t forget to give yourself the same love and care you so freely give to others.
With love,
I hope this gives you a snapshot of what my days look like and some tips you can use to find your own balance. We’re all in this together, mama! Let me know how you’re doing—drop me a comment or DM over on Instagram. I’d love to hear from you!
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