“Balancing Act” is a series focusing on the amazing people who run a successful business while working full-time, and somehow still manage to take care of their families and sleep and eat occasionally.? For those of you who are performing this juggling act yourselves, you understand — not only can it be a delicate balance, but is intertwined with our identity, challenges our priorities, and every so often lures us with that nagging possibility of quitting our day job.

Becky Bowen is the amazing artist behind Posh Dots, where she sells children’s decor items.? Not only is her work super cool and her business been wildly successful, but she just landed her first major licensing agreement.? She sells her work online at poshdots.etsy.com and you can find her full range of items at poshdotsstudio.com

1. Tell a little about your business: what do you do, how long have you been in business, and what do you love about it?

Posh Dots was opened in December 2007 selling a variety of items. Within a few months, my hand painted wooden letters took on a life of their own. At that point, I decided to focus on the letters and matching accessories such as drawer pulls and hanging pegs. I love doing custom work. It can be very challenging at times. I never know what my customers will have in mind. But, the challenges they have presented to me have pushed to a higher level.

2. What has been the most challenging part of juggling a business, day job, and family? How have you gotten through the difficult parts?

Time management is very difficult for me. I try to stay organized and just when I have it all together, something comes along and throws me off again! A schedule is worthless to me. Between being in the classroom all day and home with the family all night, I sometimes feel very overwhelmed and stress over how I will get orders filled on time. Being able to talk to friends and getting support through the Etsy forum always gets me back on track.

3. Identity is often closely linked to what we do professionally. How do you identify yourself, and does it relate more to your business/ artisan side, or your day job?

My work directly relates to every aspect of my life. I am a mother of three, two boys and a girl, and I have taught elementary art for 10 years. After many years of living in a “child’s” world, my work is greatly influenced. Bright colors, clean lines and bold shapes are common characteristics of my work. The big difference is that while my work is very neat, my life is very chaotic!

4. Give one organizational or business tip (or product) that has been invaluable.

I could not function without my computer! Living in a county with three traffic lights and one fast food chain, life in rural Va is very remote. The Internet is my window to the rest of the world.

5. Some people use a side business as a way to slowly change gears from employee to business owner. In the future, do you ever see yourself transitioning to full-time entrepreneur? If so, what would ultimately help you ultimately make that leap? If not, what benefits do you enjoy with your current situation?

When I opened Posh Dots, I never imagined there would be potential for full-time work. But, since signing a contract for Dish & Spoon Productions, I realize there may come a day when I can make this my only full-time job. Being the mom of a beautiful little girl with Down syndrome, I often worry what the future holds for her. I would love to have an established business and work with her side-by-side.

6. Any additional words of wisdom you’d like to share?

Believe

And, my favorite quote:
?When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left, and could say, “I used everything you gave me.? Erma Bombeck

It makes me feel a little less guilty. :)

~ Becky Bowen

Becky, many thanks, and here’s to your continued success!!