In today’s world, flexibility has become a top priority for so many and especially parents, and it’s easy to see why. Self-employment gives you a level of control that conventional jobs can’t match, especially in a post-Covid world where work-life balance has taken on a whole new meaning. For those in HR, where the traditional career path can often feel rigid and demanding, this flexibility can be a game-changer. Whether you’re looking to spend more time with your family, pursue other interests, or just reclaim your day-to-day freedom, self-employment puts you in the driver’s seat.
Shape your schedule around your life
One of the most attractive aspects of self-employment is the ability to create a schedule that truly works for you. Unlike a traditional job where hours are often fixed, self-employment lets you decide when and where you work. This flexibility is especially valuable if you’re juggling work and family commitments. You have the freedom to adapt your schedule as family needs evolve.
Imagine being able to work during nap times if you have younger children or schedule client meetings around nursery or school hours. Self-employment offers the chance to shape your work around your family instead of having to fit family life around your job. This flexibility helps create a sustainable balance, especially during those busy years of parenting.
Be present for the moments that matter
As children grow, the number of events at school increases. Between sports days, school plays or parent consultations, your presence becomes important. Self-employment gives you the freedom to be there without negotiating for time off or worrying about missing important moments. Your calendar becomes yours to manage.
This ability to plan your work around family life extends to everyday routines. With self-employment, you can be there for the school run, after-school clubs, or even to help with homework at a reasonable hour. Instead of squeezing family time around a rigid 9-to-5, you can structure your day in ways that make it easier to meet your commitments – both at home and at work.
Adjust for life’s unexpected changes
One of the most powerful aspects of self-employment is the capacity to adapt quickly to unexpected life events. When an unexpected family obligation comes up, you can rearrange your work without a mountain of approvals or the risk of losing pay. You’re also better equipped to adjust your working hours if you need extra time to manage things like family health emergencies or sudden changes in routine.
Being able to react to changes in real time is a tremendous advantage for parents. Instead of being at the mercy of someone else’s schedule, you can adapt to life’s twists and turns while keeping your business and family life running smoothly.
Support your own wellbeing
Self-employment isn’t just about flexibility for family life. It also gives you control over your wellbeing. Running a business can be demanding, and the ability to rest and recharge when you need to is invaluable. You’re not relying on a manager’s approval to take time off, and you’re not under pressure to “power through” when you’re worn out. If you’re feeling run down after a particularly busy week or if you just need a morning to yourself, you can schedule that time to recharge.
This balance allows you to approach each day with more energy and motivation. Having the flexibility to take breaks when you need them can keep you focused and prevent burnout. This freedom supports not only your physical health but also your mental well-being – an essential element for maintaining a long and rewarding career.
Build a career on your terms
In self-employment, your career moves at a pace that works for you. If you’re starting out with young children or other responsibilities, you can take on clients and projects that align with your family schedule without the high pressure of traditional employment. And later, when you’re ready to grow your business, you’re in complete control of how fast you expand and the kinds of clients you want to attract.
This freedom doesn’t mean you’re any less ambitious or that you’re settling for less. It’s about building a career that aligns with your values and works for you long-term. You’re free to develop a strong client base, expand your network, and take on meaningful work – all without sacrificing the quality of your family life.
Overcome traditional work limitations
Many HR professionals understand how advancing in the profession often comes with increased responsibilities and longer hours. But this doesn’t always align with family life. In a conventional job, achieving the flexibility you need may not be realistic, despite a growing trend toward remote work. With self-employment, you’re not bound by the limitations of traditional employment. You have the freedom to work with clients who align with your schedule, select projects that fit your interests, and take on work that lets you be present for family and personal commitments.
Discover your potential
Self-employment offers a unique opportunity to develop new skills and strengths. It challenges you to learn the ins and outs of running a business, manage clients, and grow your network, all on your terms. This journey isn’t just about the flexibility it brings, but also the personal and professional growth that comes from managing your own business.
Ready to explore self-employment?
So, if you’re weighing the decision to start your own HR consultancy, ask yourself: how would your life look with more flexibility? How would it feel to know that you could set your schedule, decide your hours, and create a career on your own terms? The journey isn’t without its challenges, but for many, the benefits of a flexible, family-friendly work life far outweigh any of the downsides. And in a time where work-life balance is more important than ever, self-employment just might be the best career move you make.
Download our prospectus or get in touch to have chat about your goals and how face2faceHR can support you in building the career you’re dreaming of – without compromising on family or personal wellbeing.