“Balancing Dreams and Reality: The Risk of Starting Over as a Financially Responsible Solo Mum”

What’s the biggest risk you’d like to take — but haven’t been able to?

If I had to pinpoint the biggest risk I’d like to take, it would be starting another business from scratch. Having built a business before, I know the excitement, the passion, and the endless possibilities that come with entrepreneurship. But as a single mum, the risk feels a lot bigger. When you carry the full weight of financial responsibility, it’s not as simple as jumping in and taking the plunge. The stakes are higher, and the safety net a lot smaller.

I hear it all the time: “Just do it on the side!” It’s a well-meaning suggestion, but after a 40-hour workweek, I don’t exactly have time to spare. Between cooking, cleaning, school runs, tutors, sports practices, and weekend events, I’m left wondering: where does that energy, headspace, or—most importantly—time come from? Sure, some say, “if you really want it, you’ll find the time.” But I often wonder if the people saying that have ever been a solo parent, trying to balance everything on their own.

For me, it’s not about lacking motivation or drive. The idea of starting something new is exciting. But the reality of juggling a full-time job and the endless demands of single parenthood makes it nearly impossible to give a new venture the attention it deserves. There’s a real fear that taking this leap could put too much at risk—financial stability, family time, and even my own well-being.

But even though I haven’t taken that leap yet, the dream remains alive. It’s just waiting for the right moment, when there’s a little more space and security to make that big risk feel a bit more manageable. And in the meantime, I’m still here, juggling it all, doing the best I can—and who knows, maybe that dream will come closer to reality sooner than I think.

For now, though, I’m giving myself grace and acknowledging that sometimes it’s okay to hold off on taking that risk until the time is truly right. After all, it’s not about giving up; it’s about being smart with the choices I make for myself and my family.

Fiona The Solo Mum Club xx