How Women Entrepreneurs Balance Their Work Life and Family Life in the Oulu Region, Finland

Abstract

This thesis investigated the challenges that affect the balance between work and family life for women entrepreneurs in the Oulu region of Finland and explores the strategies that can be used to overcome and manage these issues. So, this research was planned to identify specific challenges that women entrepreneurs face and find out what strategies they use to overcome those challenges to balance their work and family life. Qualitative research methodology and semi structured data collection method were used in this research, and the sample size was five women entrepreneurs from the Oulu region, Finland. The whole interview was conducted using online platforms, and it was a relaxed and open conversation. Each interview lasted 30 to 45 minutes. All interviews were recorded with the permission of all participants, and the interviews were private and confidential. The thematic analysis method was used as a data analysis method in this research. The results showed that time constraints, household responsibilities, caregiving, and mental stress were the main challenges these women entrepreneurs faced. And also, this study revealed that these women entrepreneurs used various kinds of strategies, such as time management techniques, accurate scheduling, and digital organizing tools for managing their routine, prioritizing self care, delegating tasks, and requesting family support. Finally, this research has enriched a growing body of studies on how female entrepreneurs in Finland’s Oulu region manage the challenges that they face when balancing their family responsibilities and their business goals. This research also suggests that further research with large and diverse sample sizes could provide a deeper understanding of how to help women entrepreneurs effectively balance work and family responsibilities. In summary, women entrepreneurs must be supported by an integrated strategy including social support, mental health, skills development, family involvement, workplace flexibility, and diversified programs to balance their work and family life successfully.