Your Doula Business and Your Relationship: How to Find Balance When Your Partner Isn't on Board
Have you ever wondered how to bridge the gap between your dedication to being a doula and your partner's reservations, creating a space where both your business and your relationship can flourish?
If you are ready to discover the secrets of maintaining a thriving doula business while also nurturing a strong and supportive relationship, even when your partner doesn't fully understand your role as a birthworker, then get out a pen and paper, this episode is for you!
The 3 questions we answer in today’s episode are:
Are giveaways a good method to grow my social media following as a doula?
What should I include in my "birth bag" for attending births as a doula?
What should you do if your husband/partner isn't on board with your doula business replacing your corporate income?
Every Friday, I answer your biggest questions right here on the Birthworker Blog AND the Birthworker Podcast.
To submit a question for next week’s podcast, click here.
If you're tired of feeling like your doula business and relationship are constantly at odds, then you wanna listen up!
Question #1: Are giveaways a good method to grow my social media following as a doula? Would I be attracting the right kind of followers? -Hayley
Giveaways can be a double-edged sword, but hear me out. In the beginning, when you're just starting, giveaways might not be the best strategy. Why? Well, building a genuine following organically is crucial. It's like nurturing a garden from seed to blossom—it takes time, love, and care.
But once you've got that organic engagement going, giveaways can be a game-changer. They're an excellent way to ramp up interaction and generate buzz around your doula business. Picture this: you offer a fabulous birth package or a thoughtful baby care bundle as a prize. Who wouldn't want to join in the excitement?
Now, about attracting the right kind of followers. With giveaways, you might have a mix of potential clients and people entering for the prize alone. But don't worry! By creating valuable content and nurturing relationships, you'll convert those prize seekers into devoted followers who genuinely resonate with your mission as a birth worker.
Oh, and here's a little tip: Don't forget that giveaways can also be used as a tax write-off! Yes, you heard me right. As a savvy doula entrepreneur, you can leverage this strategy while also keeping your finances in check. It's a win-win!
Question #2: What should I include in my "birth bag" for attending births as a doula?
1. Tens-unit: A handy tool for providing comfort and relief during labor. It's like a little magic machine that helps mamas ride the waves of contractions with a touch of electrical stimulation.
2. Snacks: Births can be intense and long, so fueling yourself is crucial. Pack healthy, energizing snacks like granola bars, fruits, nuts, and water-rich treats. Keep yourself nourished and hydrated throughout the journey.
3. Camera: A picture is worth a thousand words, and capturing those precious moments can be a beautiful gift for the families you serve. Seek permission beforehand and create lasting memories.
4. Change of clothes & toiletries: Long births can turn into marathons. Pack a change of clothes and essential toiletries, with an emphasis on a toothbrush and toothpaste.
5. Coffee & water: Remember, you need to stay energized and hydrated to provide the best support.
6. Rebozo/birth sling: These versatile tools are perfect for providing physical support and comfort during labor. They're like a gentle hug for moms, offering relief and relaxation.
7. Hair scrunchies: As trivial as it may seem, trust me, these little hair accessories can be a lifesaver. Keep your hair out of the way, ensuring you can focus entirely on supporting the birthing process.
8. Essential oils: These aren't for everyone, so make sure to ask the mother beforehand. If she's on board, these delightful scents can create a calming ambiance and aid relaxation during labor.
Disclaimer: make sure to educate yourself on essential oil safety before offering them to clients. For example, peppermint oil can cause seizures in some infants and should be avoided in the birth space.
Question #3: What should you do if your husband/partner isn't on board with your doula business replacing your corporate income?
First and foremost, show your partner the logistical side. Present them with concrete examples of the financial success others have achieved as doula entrepreneurs. Seeing the potential income firsthand can help alleviate any concerns they might have.
Next, take your partner through your well-thought-out business plan. Lay it out step by step, showcasing how you intend to build and grow your doula business. Demonstrating your strategic approach will instill confidence in your partner and highlight the thoughtfulness behind your decision.
Now, let's talk passive income. Mention the possibility of generating steady income through a course or ebook. This type of revenue stream can offer a sense of security, balancing the potential income fluctuations that come with attending births. Sometimes, the concept of "steady income" can provide comfort to your partner.
And finally, trust that your partner's support will grow as they witness the results of your dedication and hard work. Actions and results speak louder than words. As your doula business flourishes, the positive impact you make on families' lives will be hard to ignore. Your partner will see the fulfillment and joy this work brings you, and their support will likely follow suit.
Remember, you're embarking on a path that empowers women during one of life's most transformative experiences. It's not always easy, but it's undoubtedly worth it. Stay determined, confident, and true to yourself.
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Meet your host, Kyleigh Banks, a side-gig doula turned CEO of a multi-six-figure birth-focused business. Her passion? Teaching birth nerds, like you, how to build an incredibly successful doula business that allows you to quit your day job, stay home with your kids, and most importantly, make a lasting impact on the world.