Parenting Teens & Running a Business – Finding the Balance

Balancing parenting and running a business is like juggling flaming swords while blindfolded; exciting, terrifying, and occasionally painful. Especially when your kids aren’t little anymore but full-blown teenagers or young adults who think they know everything (spoiler: they don’t). As a mom of college-age kids and a business owner, I’ve mastered the fine art of controlled chaos.

So, how do you do it? How do you keep your business thriving without your kids filing emotional complaints about neglect? The truth is, it’s not about achieving perfect balance (that’s a myth) but rather finding a livable level of controlled madness. Here’s how I attempt to make it work; most days.

1. Setting Boundaries Without Guilt (Or at Least Trying To)

One of the hardest things about being a parent and an entrepreneur is the blurred lines between work and home life. When you work for yourself, there’s no ‘clocking out’. Your business is like a needy toddler that constantly demands attention. But setting clear work boundaries is essential (or so they say).

• Create a dedicated work schedule – Try to establish “work time” and “family time,” though expect your kids to ignore it when they need $20 or have a sudden existential crisis.

• Communicate your availability – Let your kids know when you’re in work mode so they understand when interruptions should be life-or-death only.

• Turn off work notifications in the evenings – It’s tempting to check emails, but that’s a fast track to frustration and a ruined Netflix binge session.

Bottom line: Set boundaries and enforce them like you enforce “no eating in the living room” (aka, inconsistently but with effort).

2. Involving Your Kids in Your Business (AKA Free Labor With Life Lessons)

One of the best ways to merge parenting and entrepreneurship is to bring your kids into your world; whether they like it or not.

• Ask for their opinions – Teens love to feel important. Whether it’s feedback on a marketing idea or “Does this post look cringe?” Let them think they’re running the show.

• Give them small tasks – They want money? Great. Let them help with filing, organizing, or creating social media content. Life skills + work ethic = win-win.

• Teach them financial literacy – If they complain about working, remind them that one day they’ll need to pay rent, and this is just preparation for the real world.

This approach helps your kids see your business as something that benefits them rather than something that takes you away from them; especially if you throw in an occasional bribe.

3. Prioritizing Quality Time Over Quantity (Because Let’s Be Real, You’re Busy)

Let’s be honest—owning a business means your schedule is about as stable as a toddler after cake. Instead of stressing over spending every moment with your kids, focus on quality time that counts.

• Plan non-negotiable family moments – A Sunday dinner, a random ice cream run, or watching trash TV together—small but meaningful.

• Be present when you’re present – Close the laptop, put down the phone, and make eye contact like a real human being.

• Support their interests – Even if their latest hobby makes zero sense to you (why are they watching people watch video games?), show up and pretend to care.

It’s not about how much time you have, but how much of YOU is there when you’re with them.

4. Managing the Emotional Rollercoaster (Because Some Days, You’ll Want to Quit Both Jobs)

Being an entrepreneur and a parent is emotionally exhausting. You want to be the boss at work and the cool, understanding parent at home. Yet somehow, both roles drain your soul equally.

• Give yourself grace – Some days, you’ll rock it. Other days, you’ll forget to sign a permission slip and serve cereal for dinner. It happens.

• Practice self-care – Whether it’s an extra shot of espresso, an early bedtime, or hiding in your car for five minutes of silence. Take care of yourself.

• Surround yourself with support – Find other business-owning parents who understand. Vent sessions are therapy.

5. Embracing Flexibility (Because Nothing Goes as Planned Anyway)

The biggest lesson I’ve learned? Flexibility is everything. Both business and parenting come with unexpected surprises; some amazing, some nightmare-inducing. If you can adapt, laugh, and roll with the chaos, you’ll survive.

At the end of the day, it’s not about balancing everything perfectly. It’s about doing your best and faking the rest.

Final Thoughts

Parenting teens while owning a business is a ride full of challenges, humor, and occasional regret (mostly when they start acting like you). But it’s also one of the most rewarding experiences. By setting boundaries (even if they ignore them), involving your kids (free labor!), prioritizing quality time, managing emotions, and embracing flexibility, you can create a life that works for both your business and your family.

How do you manage parenting and running a business? I'd love to hear your experiences! If you're reading this on my website, feel free to connect with me directly or share your thoughts on my social media. Let's keep the conversation going!