How do you maintain focus and productivity especially when balancing multiple responsibilities that come with being a woman business owner? Do you have any tips for other female entrepreneurs looking for more focus so they can advance their business?
Kate Gory
COO
Individual Tax Service
As a mom, business owner and graduate student, I’ve learned that maintaining focus isn’t about perfect concentration – it’s about creating systems that work for you.
Combining time-blocking with the Motion AI transformed my calendar from overwhelming to intentional. But my real breakthrough came from getting crystal clear on my goals and values—because without clarity, even the best productivity tools fall short. To be intentional about your time, you have to first be clear about where you need to focus and why.
My secret weapon? The power of community. My accountability partners have been instrumental in helping me stay focused and aligned with my priorities, providing the perfect blend of support and redirection when needed. Getting involved with organizations like NAWBO Chicago is a great way to foster that community.
If you’re seeking better focus: Start by creating systems that match your working style. Be intentional and specific about your priorities. And remember – building a strong support network isn’t optional, it’s essential.
Tracy Kramer
President
BuzzCo
A few key components that help establish my focus are time, environment and well-being.
Time: Goals are established, and I am realistic about how much time is needed to accomplish each task. Tasks that flow into each other are tackled during the day when I have minor interruptions. Tasks requiring significant critical thinking are scheduled when my energy level is high, and I can insulate myself from getting pinged.
Environment: My office has inspiring art, is filled with natural light and is a clutter-free zone. Some accessories that help me stay energized and focused are a stand-up desk, a walking pad, background music and candles.
Well-being: I’m realistic about my energy level and what can be done. Circling the same idea and working at a turtle’s pace are cues to take a short break. Getting away from my desk for a walk, yoga stretches, etc., helps reset my focus. Simple, healthy snacks and hot beverages are available to grab and go. I stay positive, default to humor and get away from my screens whenever possible. Occasionally, there’s a carrot to keep me incentivized.
Carmen Londono
President
The Insurance Pros, LLC
Running The Insurance Pros, staying active in organizations, being a mom and a hands-on Gigi—I know a thing or two about juggling. But I’ve learned that balance isn’t about doing everything; it’s about knowing what actually deserves my energy.
I don’t just hope to be productive—I plan for it. Every night, I set my priorities for the next day so I can hit the ground running. The most important tasks come first, and I protect my time with firm boundaries and time-blocking (because if it’s not on my calendar, it doesn’t exist).
My best advice? Delegate without guilt. Women, especially, feel like we have to carry everything, but trust me—real growth happens when we let go and trust others to step in. Also, build your village. Surrounding myself with women who understand the juggle keeps me motivated and accountable.
At the end of the day, success isn’t just about business growth—it’s about building a life I love. The more intentional I am with my time, the better I can show up for my clients, my community and most importantly, my family.
Nicole Rhone
CEO & Founder
Flourishing, LLC
As a woman entrepreneur, balancing business, family and personal priorities can feel like a never-ending juggling act. But I’ve learned that maintaining focus and productivity isn’t about doing more—it’s about managing your capacity. My definition of capacity is the amount of time, energy and resources you have available to manage all the competing priorities in your personal and professional life. Below are three of my best tips.
Audit Your Capacity, Not Just Your Time – Time management alone won’t save you from burnout. Instead, assess your energy, mental bandwidth and resources. Use free tools like my Capacity Calculator to determine where you’re stretched too thin and where adjustments are needed.
Leverage Delegation – You don’t have to do it all. Identify tasks that drain you and delegate them to those who can do the work—whether it’s outsourcing business tasks (Fiverr is my best friend), asking for help at home or using automation tools to lighten your load.
Stop Multitasking – Instead, create dedicated blocks of time for focused work. Protect these blocks by eliminating distractions and communicating boundaries with clients, family and your team.
Cheryl Vargas
Founder
Art Studio 928
As a creative, I am so easily distracted! So, I have to structure my week intentionally—Mondays and Fridays are reserved for planning, creating and studio tours, which help me set priorities and engage directly with my creative community and customers. Using a CRM like Dubsado is a real game-changer, freeing up time to focus on the strategic aspects of my business by automating routine tasks.
I also use digital tools like ChatGPT to keep me laser-focused and to streamline my workflow. On a personal note, I have found that incorporating a combination of natural supplements into my routine further supports my focus.
My advice for fellow female entrepreneurs is to experiment with various tools and routines until you discover what best aligns with your rhythm and goals.