Supporting Entrepreneurs Through Transition:

The Common Ground Between Doula Work and Web Design

Supporting entrepreneurs through transition as they start a business or take their work to the next level requires a willingness to show up for people doing hard and brave things, much like being a doula.

Doula turned web designer Nikki Shaheed supports a birthing mother with a rebozo
Photo by Memories by the Smile in San Antonio, TX

At first glance, it may seem like a strange leap to go from being a doula to becoming a web designer. But if you knew that I spent ten years coaching figure skating, became certified as an ESL teacher, and even served as a COO, you might just say, “There she goes again, following her passions and embracing new challenges.” My journey has been anything but linear, but there is a common thread that ties all of these roles together: my deep commitment to showing up for people, especially during times of vulnerability and transition.

As a childbirth educator and doula, I had the profound privilege of being present with individuals and families during one of the most transformative times of their lives. Childbirth is not just a physical process; it's an emotional and psychological journey that challenges people in ways they often never anticipated. In those moments of uncertainty, fear, and excitement, I was there as a calm and supportive presence, helping to guide them through the experience with compassion and reassurance. I didn’t just witness the birth of babies; I witnessed the birth of parents, of families, and of entirely new identities.

Transitioning from the role of a doula to that of a web designer might seem like a significant shift, but in many ways, the essence of the work remains the same.

Small business owners are often in their own period of transition, stepping into the unknown territory of entrepreneurship. Like becoming a parent, starting or scaling a business is a leap from the familiar into the uncharted. It's a time filled with excitement and potential, but also with vulnerability, uncertainty, and the weight of new responsibilities.

Just as new parents may feel overwhelmed by the demands of caring for a newborn, entrepreneurs can feel daunted by the multitude of roles they suddenly need to fill. Whether it's moving from a secure job in a large company to the independence of self-employment or navigating the complexities of scaling a business, the journey can be lonely and overwhelming. The fear of failure, the pressure to succeed, and the constant demands on time and energy can make even the most confident person feel unsure of their footing.

Nikki Shaheed smiles at the computer during a web design Zoom meeting with a small business owner

This is where my experience as a doula intersects with my work as a web designer.

In both roles, I provide more than just technical skills or knowledge—I offer support, empathy, and guidance. When I work with small business owners to create a website, I’m not just building a digital platform; I’m supporting entrepreneurs through transition: helping them bring their vision to life, and giving them the tools and confidence they need to step forward into their new reality.

I’m there to say, “This is normal. You’ve got this. Here’s something that can help. Keep going.” The journey of entrepreneurship, like parenthood, is full of challenges, but it’s also full of possibilities and rewards. Having someone by your side who understands the emotional landscape can make all the difference in how that journey is experienced and remembered.

Life has presented me with many opportunities to show up for people during vulnerable times, and I consider it a privilege to be that supportive presence, whether in the delivery room or the digital world.

I’m grateful for the diverse paths I’ve walked, as they’ve all led me to this unique intersection of skills and passions, where I can continue to help people navigate their transitions with confidence and compassion.

If you're ready to take the leap and get a beautiful, effective website for your business, I would love to support you with a brand new website, site redesign, SEO upgrade, or a custom plan tailored to your needs. I look forward to connecting with you!
Warmly,
Nikki

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