Franticmommy Helps Calm This Frantic Mommy
Never is it more apparent to this mom and business owner the need for a virtual assistant then when I come home from vacation. Let’s face it, regrouping while drowning in personal and professional laundry lists (in tandem) can easily send one running back to the island in which she just came, namely Jamaica.
It’s easy to heed Bob Marley’s advice “not to worry” when sipping rum and Coke from a lounge chair near the hotel pool, but when swimming in paperwork and potty training...not so much!!! Little wonder why my thoughts turned to mom blogger and virtual assistant Rebecca (Becky) Flansburg the minute I resumed my seat in front of my laptop once again...post sun and fun.
This successful entrepreneur and clever blogger has taken a reality we both know all too well (as devoted moms and breadwinners) and turned it into an opportunity-- one where she can work from home and support that work through the combined passions of “writing” and “helping”. What, ultimately, results is a very enjoyable, satisfied working mother, a happy family, and an incredibly practical, enormously beneficial, and pragmatic blog called Franticmommy.
Needless-to-say, if you are like me - coming off from vacation and eagerly clawing to plan the next - this is the interview for you!
What is your full name?
Rebecca Flansburg
What is your personal mantra?
“Take what lights your fire and turn that passion into a beacon of light for others to follow.”
Tell us about your life, including where you live, number of children and anything else you would like to share.
I am a full-time freelance writer and project manager who lives in north central Minnesota. I have two amazing kids-Sara (10) and Jake (13). The fact that I can work from home and earn a steady income while still being present for them is an absolute GIFT.
Having always loved writing and no longer content with working outside of the home - primarily because I wanted to spend more time with my kids - I mentioned my dilemma to an acquaintance and she immediately piped up and said “I think you need to be a Virtual Assistant.” I have to admit, I’d never even so much as heard of a VA much less thought of myself as one. But, once I heard that word … that title of “Virtual Assistant”, I very quickly discovered where to go for support, training, skills and even clients. It was the piece of the puzzle that I needed.
Do you believe you have a “life’s purpose?” If so, share it.
To share people’s incredible journeys through my writing-blogging and, quite unexpectedly, to be an accountability coach, who helps others achieve their dreams. Coaching is rewarding for me in so many ways.
Finish this sentence, “The best part about being a mom is _____.”
I heard a saying once which said that being a mom is the hardest work you will ever do, but also the most rewarding work that you will ever do. My kids are my world and everything I do, I do for them.
What is the name of your blog? When was it launched?
My primary blog is Franticmommy and it launched on May 21, 2008. I came up with the name because I always felt like my life was moving at frantic pace! I also wanted a place to share my quirky sense of humor via my real-life “mommy moments” posts.
What is the primary focus of your blog and what do you hope to accomplish through it?
In the beginning, my goal with Franticmommy was to make other moms laugh. That was it! Now, over the years, Franticmommy has evolved into a site that encourages others to “discover life beyond the cubicle” and explore the option of making an honest and steady income from home.
As a work from home professional, I am happier, more fulfilled and more present for my kids. I used to stare outside while I was at my 9-5, wishing I could feel the sun on my skin or take spontaneous walks whenever I felt like it. I used to miss opportunities for field trips and school events because I had to work. Now, as a business owner, I am in charge of my own destiny and can do all of those things when I want. Being able to flex my client work around the needs of my family is priceless. I want to share that possibility with others and let them know there are options. They don’t need to be so busy making a living that they forget to make a life.
Are you a Brand Ambassador and if so, for which companies?
I am a Brand Ambassador for OfficeMall.com through my sister site, SupplyChicks.com. I have a “thing” for office products and gear after working 30 years in that industry and SupplyChicks.com lets me honor my inner pen nerd ☺
Do you blog for other blogs or sites?
Yes! I blog on MulticulturalChildrensBookDay.com, JumpIntoABook.com, MomSquadCentral, Mamapedia and I am a contributor to the Huffington Post blog.
Which social media outlet (such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest, etc.) do you find most useful?
I am a huge fan of Twitter and Instagram. Twitter moves fast but allows you to reach anyone anywhere in the world. Instagram is hip, fun and visual. Anyone can connect with me on Twitter as @rebeccflansburg and on Instagram as Franticmommy.
What is the one piece of advice you would give to those who may be interested in beginning a blog?
The best thing you can do is simply take action and start! But I would caution those looking to start a blog to have a purpose and a plan in mind. The majority of new blogs 'peter out' after only a few months because their owners don’t have a plan or aren’t sure what they want to talk about. Think it through; decide your niche; and implement new content on a consistent basis. Building a blog readership takes time. It’s a marathon, not a sprint.
Are you an entrepreneur or professional beyond your blog (and outside of being a mom)? Please share.
Currently, I am co-writing an online course for people looking to self-publish a children’s book with author and publisher, Valarie Budayr. I plan on doing more writing for Huffington Post while also creating an e-book for solopreneurs. My first ebook, FREElance FREEdom, is available on Amazon. I am still “noodling” on many book ideas but right now - because I am very busy with client work and projects - I have more ideas than time!
Do you support – either formally or informally – a particular social cause?
I am a huge advocate for anything to do with children’s literature and reading. That’s why I am so proud to be part of the non-profit initiative Multicultural Children’s Book Day (January 27, 2017) that works to get diverse kids’ books into the hands of readers, parents and educators.
When all is said and done, how do you want to be remembered?
I want to know remembered as the good mom who was also a successful mompreneur. I also want to be a guide in helping others who dream of leaving their 9-5 jobs and learn how to make an honest living from home on their own terms.
Frankly, I really love how Becky tossed “the man’s” heels aside and is now walking barefoot in the spirit of Bob Marley...making every little thing for herself and others “alright”! And with her spare time, she’s helping to promote reading across all cultures. The lady makes me feel like I’m standing still, folks. I guess the only thing left for me to do is hire her….and read Franticmommy regularly. Either that or find the nearest airport and make Jamaica my permanent home. It's a coin toss, but knowing how easily I get bored...Becky seems the more realistic choice!