Over the years serving families as a doula, this is the one topic that frequently trips people up. They are concerned about calling for a false alarm, or waking me up in the middle of the night, or calling me in too soon. I would like to touch on each one of these topics and alleviate some stress regarding when to call.
Let’s start at the beginning. When you hire me as your doula, I am a source of informational support for you and your partner from that point on. We will get together several times so that we build a relationship so that I am not merely a familiar face coming to the birthday party. I want my presence to feel like a supportive friend on delivery day.
Things are really picking up for me this year. For that, I am very grateful. Planning your year out knowing that you have regular work for the next 7 months is very comforting as a self-employed business owner. Staying organized and on top of everything is paramount to success.
It is very hard for me to take the time that I need for myself. I always struggle with feeling selfish, guilty or vain. However, I am learning when you are self-employed, you are literally the face of the business. So I need to make myself more important when I am planning my week out.