Nathalia Smith runs a successful bookkeeping business while raising her family. Learn her strategies for time management, support systems, and self-care.
In August’s edition of The Ripple Effect, we sat down with Nathalia Smith, the founder of Pixie Dust Accounting, to discuss how she manages the dual responsibilities of running a business and raising a family. With six years in the bookkeeping and accounting industry, Nathalia has successfully transitioned her business from California to Daytona while raising her children. Her insights provide valuable lessons on balancing work, family, and self-care.
This article is part of a series for our monthly publication, The Ripple Effect, where Nathalia and three other entrepreneurial parents shared their top tips and strategies for achieving work-life balance!
Background and Routine
Can you tell us a bit about your business?
I run a digital bookkeeping and accounting service for small businesses. I’ve been in the business for six years. The firm started in California, and I migrated to the Daytona area two years ago.
How do you balance your daily routine between managing your business and your children’s schedules?
Time blocking has been a great tool for me. On my daily calendar, I prioritize my tasks and my day. I color-code different types of events or activities. I also leave some time in case I need to take a break or have some “me” time.
Challenges and Solutions
Challenges and SolutionsWhat are some of the biggest challenges you face in balancing work and family life?
Keeping work and home life separate is tough, especially if you work from home. That’s another reason I have office space here at Ripple.
How do you handle situations when work and family commitments clash?
My family comes first. The reason I started my own business is because I need the flexibility to attend to my family’s needs when I am needed. My priority is being a mom; business comes second.
Support Systems
Do you have any support systems in place (e.g., family, friends, or professional help) to assist with childcare and business tasks?
Currently, I have four virtual assistants with various responsibilities for my business. I can’t do everything myself. I also have my church community and friends that I can count on when I need it. Additionally, I have a house cleaner who comes every other week to clean my house.
Work-Life Integration
How do you ensure that you have quality time with your children amidst your busy work schedule?
Trying to split time between work and family can feel like a never-ending balancing act. Be ready to adjust your plans. Life happens, and that’s okay.
Can you share any tips for other parents who are also running a business and raising school-age children?
Get my kids involved in simple business tasks. It’s educational and can be fun! Avoiding burnout and stress from managing both can really wear me out, so I schedule time just for me to recharge and unwind regularly.
Nathalia’s journey reflects the reality that managing a business while raising a family is a delicate balancing act, but with the right tools, support systems, and a focus on self-care, it’s possible to thrive in both areas!
Connect with Nathalia on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, or find her services directly on her website!
