For many homemakers considering starting a business, the road ahead can seem filled with uncertainty. Between generating revenue, managing advertising, and handling customer relations, the list of challenges is endless. Many give up before they even start, believing they lack the specialized knowledge or experience.
However, simply staring at your computer screen won’t solve anything. Even the most successful “mompreneurs” faced walls of anxiety and failure before they reached the top.
To help you on your journey, here are the three essential conditions for making your business a success.
1. Family Cooperation and Understanding
Every successful female entrepreneur emphasizes one thing: the understanding of their family. Without this, it is nearly impossible to sustain a business while managing a household.
Those who succeed almost always consult with their husbands and children first, securing their encouragement and support. On the other hand, those who act unilaterally—starting a business without discussing it with their family—inevitably face domestic conflict.
Think of it this way: If you were an employee and your boss forced project after project on you without any communication, you would feel frustrated, wouldn’t you? The same applies to your family. Those who value their family’s feelings often find that they also excel at managing employees. When you treat those closest to you with respect, people will naturally follow you.
2. Developing Your “Core Competencies”
Success requires a diverse set of strengths, such as:
- Actionability (The power to get started)
- Research Skills
- Communication & Conversational Skills
- Human Power (Ningen-ryoku)
“Human Power” is a term often used in Japan to describe the comprehensive ability to live as an independent person and contribute to society. According to the Cabinet Office, it consists of Intellectual Ability, Interpersonal Skills, and Self-Control.
Successful entrepreneurs are intelligent, manage relationships well, and are masters of self-regulation. They have a clear vision and are not egoists; they possess the “grit” to see their goals through to the end. Don’t try to master everything at once—start by polishing one skill until it is stronger than anyone else’s.
3. Calm Judgment and Decision-Making
Can you look at yourself objectively? Successful entrepreneurs always say that calm judgment is vital. They don’t let emotions dictate their choices.
Entrepreneurship is a series of decisions. You must know when to seize an opportunity, when to take a leap of faith, and when to firmly say “No.” By calmly assessing what you want to do versus what you can do, you effectively manage risk. Whether it’s evaluating a new idea or pivoting your strategy, staying calm allows you to see the “big picture.” Success is rarely found in impulsive, reckless starts. Develop the ability to see several steps ahead with a cool head.
Summary
While every successful person has their own unique path, these three conditions are common threads among almost all thriving entrepreneurs.
As a mother and a homemaker, you possess a unique perspective, life experience, and a wealth of ideas that only you can offer. Keep these strengths close to your heart, build your confidence, and take that first step toward your business goals!