Being a single mom means you’re the provider, the nurturer, the decision-maker, and the rock holding everything together. Every choice you make, especially about how you earn a living, directly impacts your family’s stability and future.

I remember the fear and the endless "what-ifs" that came with taking the leap. In 2019, I made the bold decision to go full-time with my business, and by 2020, I hit the ground running. At the time, I had just bought a home in 2018, my daughter was in her sophomore year of college, and my sons were in their sophomore and junior years of high school. Looking back, my only regret is not taking that leap sooner!

If you’re a first-time single mom entrepreneur (or you’re thinking about becoming one), you may be asking yourself:

“Should I stick with a traditional job for stability, or start my own business for flexibility?”

The truth is: both paths can work. It all depends on your stage of life, your financial comfort level, and the kind of freedom you’re seeking.

This blog breaks down the pros and cons of each option, allowing you to make a confident and informed decision.

Why This Decision Hits Differently for Single Moms

Single moms carry both emotional and financial responsibility. There isn’t a fallback paycheck, a second income, or someone to cover when the kids get sick. That makes career choices feel heavier.

But it also means:

~You get to design a life and career that truly works for you.
~You have more control than you realize.
~You’re capable of building something bigger than your circumstances.

Let’s compare the two paths: employee vs. entrepreneur, from a single mother’s perspective.

Working as an Employee: Predictability with Limitations

The Pros

1. A Steady Paycheck You Can Count On

You know exactly what’s coming in and when. That alone lowers stress and makes budgeting simpler.

2. Benefits That Reduce Your Expenses

Health insurance, dental, vision, retirement matching, PTO, these can save single moms thousands a year.

3. Less Mental Load

You walk in, do the job, and walk out. You’re not carrying the business on your back.

4. Structure & Routine

When you have young kids, a predictable schedule can make life feel more manageable.

The Cons

1. Limited Flexibility

School pick-ups, sick days, snow days, early releases—traditional jobs don’t always accommodate the realities of motherhood.

2. Income Ceiling

Your salary is capped unless you switch roles, ask for raises, or climb the ladder.

3. Someone Else Controls Your Future

Layoffs, schedule changes, toxic supervisors, your stability is tied to someone else’s decisions.

4. Childcare Dependence

When your hours aren’t flexible, childcare costs can skyrocket.

Starting a Business: Freedom with Responsibility

The Pros

1. Flexibility to Build a Mom-Friendly Life

You can set your schedule, work during school hours, and shift things around when life happens.
For most single moms, this is the #1 reason entrepreneurship wins.

2. Unlimited Income Potential

Your earning power is based on your skills, your strategy, and your effort, not a salary band.

3. You Create Something That’s Yours

A legacy. A brand. A system. Something your kids can look at and say, “Mom built that.”

4. More Control Over Your Day-to-Day

No supervisor. No micromanagement. No office politics.

5. Tax Benefits

Home office deductions, mileage, business meals, and childcare arrangements, business ownership comes with advantages that employees don’t get.

The Cons

1. Income Takes Time to Build

The early phase can feel shaky. It may take months before you hit consistency.

2. You Wear All the Hats

Marketing, finances, customer service… until you can afford help, you’re the whole team.

3. No Built-In Benefits

You’re responsible for health insurance, retirement, sick time, and emergency savings.

4. Hard to “Clock Out.”

Your business will follow you unless you build boundaries around it.

5. Upfront Costs

Even small businesses require some financial investment.

So… What’s the Best Choice for a Single Mom?

Here’s the truth:

~If you need stability right now, a job might be the best foundation.
~If you crave flexibility, autonomy, and long-term wealth, entrepreneurship is a powerful path.
~If you want both, you can start your business on the side until the income becomes stable enough to stand on its own. (I highly recommend this approach. If possible, delegate tasks within your business by hiring someone to handle the work. This way, when you're ready to transition, you can move forward without being tied to the role of an owner-operator.)

There is no one-size-fits-all answer. There is only the path that fits your life, your kids, and your goals. 

A Few Questions to Ask Yourself

• Do I thrive with structure or with freedom?

• Can I handle financial ups and downs while the business grows?

• Do I want a long-term asset or immediate stability?

• How much flexibility do I need for my children’s schedules and needs?

• What skills can I monetize right now?

Your answer will guide your next move.

Want a free self-assessment? Click here!

A Message to Every Single Mom Considering Entrepreneurship

You are already doing one of the hardest jobs in the world. Starting a business doesn’t make you more stressed; it gives you a chance to build a life that supports your motherhood, not competes with it.

You don’t have to choose between being a good mom and a successful entrepreneur. You can be both.

And if you ever need guidance on setting up your business, managing your books, or building systems that actually work, I’m here for you.