Are you deciding between being a working mom vs a stay at home mom? If so, you’re probably realizing there are a lot of factors to consider!
This is a very individual and personal decision, and no one can make it for you.
We encourage you to take your time, think about all the factors, and carefully weigh the different options. The decision to continue working or stay at home after children is a tough one and largely depends on the individual situation as well as personal preferences.
And we should know, we’ve got one of each. Rachel made the decision to stay at home while Jo wanted to keep working. Together we’ve come up with this list of thinking points.
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Working Mom vs Stay at Home Mom Considerations
Here are some critical items you need to consider on the subject:
Job Circumstances
- Do you love your job? How much would you miss your job?
- If you leave the field, are you able to easily return to your career? If not, are you willing to start over in a lower position?
- How many hours (and what times) will you be away from your child during the day? Consider your work schedule, breaks, commute times, etc.
- Are flexible hours or part-time options available to you?
- Does your partner have flexibility in their schedule or career? Would they be able to stay at home as needed or move to another position that pays more?
Finances
- Does your partner make enough money to cover the bills?
- What about the “extras” (ie, vacations or going out to eat)? Are you okay limiting these or giving them up entirely?
- Do you plan to start a college savings fund for your child?
- Will you have enough money to save for retirement?
- Do you currently receive health insurance from your employer? If so, have you thoroughly researched other options?
- Have you looked into additional ways to supplement family income?
Breastfeeding Plans
- Is your job conducive to pumping?
- Will you be expected to clock-out for pump breaks?
- Is there a private area you can use? Access to a sink or fridge?
- Will you have ample time to pump at regular hours throughout the day?
- Are your coworkers and boss supportive of your breastfeeding decision?
Childcare
- What options are available to you? Both financially and physically.
- Daycare center? Au pair? Family? In-home daycare? Nanny sharing?
Happiness
- Where do you feel joy?
- What aspects of your life make you feel fulfilled?
Partner
- Does your partner expect you to stay home or work?
- How involved is your partner in household chores?
- How involved is your partner in childcare duties?
Support
- What kind of support options are available to you? Other stay-at-home moms? Family? Facebook groups?
- What kind of socialization options are available for your children? Neighborhood children? Cousins?
Wrapping Up
Like we said, deciding between working mom vs stay at home mom is a HUGE decision that shouldn’t be taken lightly.
Talk about all of these areas out loud. Discuss them with your partner, friends, parents, or even a stranger on the bus.
Channel your inner organizer and write out the pros/cons of each decision. Make a chart, graph, or list to help you visualize all the factors.
If you have your heart set on one decision but it’s just not feasible, don’t give up. Open your mind to other options and possibilities. Remember that even though it was Rachel’s dream to stay home, it took her years until she was able to make it work.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for support on how to make it work as a working mom, you can check out some of Jo’s articles about how she balances family, cleaning, and even laundry.
