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Dear Searching Mom -
I can share with you
what I found as I struggled with that same
question after having my own children. After
spending hours on the internet looking at every
"we've got work-at-home jobs" website out there,
I came to the conclusion that there are
essentially three primary ways to legitimately
work from home: make arrangements with your
current/former company, join a direct sales
company, or start your own business.
First, if you think
the work that you are currently doing/did prior
to having your son is suited to working from
home, I'd approach your boss to see if you can
work something out. Often times, they'll let
you work a few days at home and a few in the
office. The benefits of this are that you
retain your salary, benefits, etc. But, the
disadvantage is that you'd most likely need to
bring in childcare in order to get the job done,
so it may not provide you with the downtime
during the day that you are seeking.
Secondly, there are
hundreds of companies out there who are looking
for sales reps. These are legitimate companies
such as Avon, Discovery Toys, Tupperware, Bath
and Body, Creative Memories, etc. These
companies usually cost a bit to join (the
investment varies by company), but typically
covers the materials that you use to hold
parties and such. I know several very
successful women who have taken this approach
and done well for themselves. I would suggest
though that you find a company that you're
really passionate about; otherwise, you may find
that the enthusiasm won't be there when you're
trying to sell the product to someone.
Lastly, there's the
possibility of starting your own business. I
know it may sound like an overwhelming notion,
but it is entirely possible. Start with
something that you're totally excited about so
that you'll have fun with the work. Set
realistic goals for yourself. And, get your
spouse or other family members involved when you
can, because their support and encouragement
will help you get the job done.
As a final note, you
mentioned that you wanted to be home and still
bring in some income. My suggestion to you
would be to start there -- with that statement.
Put some numbers and descriptions down beside
both of those statements. Do you want to be
home all day, everyday with your son? Are you
willing to work in the evenings to make that
happen? How much money would you want to bring
in? What do you think a "work-at-home work day"
would be like? What do you like about this and
what don't you like? Questions like these will
help you clarify your vision of how you want
your days to look. Once you've got the vision,
it's a lot easier to start weeding out the
choices!
Hope that helps some
and I wish you the very best as you continue to
make choices about your career!
Love, Mom
Related Bundles Of Joy Discussions: [link
to] What was the deciding factor that made you want to
stay home?
Additional Resources: Making the Decision to Be Home With Your Children – From the BOJ Article Archive. I Don’t Know How She Does It – by Allison Pearson. Fictional book about one woman’s struggle to continue working. The New Frontline in Parenting – by Cheryl Gochnauer, Homebodies.org. A glimpse into one SAHM’s day and her thoughts on being home. From the Home Front and Back – by Edward A. Shaw, Everyotherdad.com. A Dad reflects on his life as she’s stayed at home with his children. Mona Lisa Smile – movie by Sony Pictures starring Julia Roberts. Yes, it’s fiction. But, it truly offers a good dialogue about women, specifically, staying home to care for a family.
Mom's
Biography: |
