simplicity: n. the state of being simple, uncomplicated or uncompounded | lack of subtlety | freedom from pretense or guile | directness of expression

Ah, the trappings of entrepreneurship. While working for “the man” (or “woman”), we yearn for the freedom to chart our own course. We dream about having more time for ourselves. More white space, to create and think and DO. Less busyness, fewer demands, not as many unnecessary distractions.

We yearn for simplicity.

And then, when we have the ability to do our own thing, we muck it up. Complicate it to no end. Add details and pressures and to-do’s that may or may not matter in the end anyway. Punish ourselves for enjoying down time, respite, self-care.

It reminds me of a little Alanis Morrisette song … 

Isn’t it ironic? Don’t you think?

We say “less is more” — yet we buy more courses, and try more tactics, and join more Facebook groups, and take on more roles. We say “it’s ok to grow slow” — yet we berate ourselves for not spending 24/7 building our empires. We say “enjoy the moment” — yet we are apt to let the aspirations of tomorrow overshadow the successes of today.

As entrepreneurs, and as mothers, we say we want simplicity — yet once we have it, we don’t let ourselves enjoy it.

That’s why we’re spending the month of September exploring the concept of SIMPLICITY here at MotherHustle. We want to know why simplicity is such a sought-after yet pushed-against concept, and how we can ACTUALLY achieve more of it in our lives and in our businesses.

Some things we will be exploring:

• What role does simplicity have in your business? In your family life?
• Do you think about simplicity as something you need? Lack? Enjoy?
• How do moms, and entrepreneurs, sabotage or undermine simplicity?
• What in your life needs some simplicity right now? How is that different than when you first became a mom or business owner?
• What advice would you have for a new mom or new business owner who is yearning for more simplicity?

We want to hear from you, mama. We want to know if you think simplicity, success and motherhood can coincide. So join in on Facebook, or Instagram — or email me to chat about it — and let’s simplify this story together.

Emily Cretella is the founder of MotherHustle.com, as well as the copywriting and content marketing firm CursiveContent.com, where she helps clients create + share stories their audiences love.

She adores being mom to her two little ladies and drinking obscene amounts of coffee from mugs with pithy sayings. Find her on Instagram, and learn more about ways you can collaborate with MotherHustle.