In recent weeks, I’ve taken on as much work as possible in preparation for the upcoming holidays. As a single mother, it’s crucial for me to provide my children with a joyful Christmas while also ensuring I can take some time off during the festive season. My mornings are spent rising early to get a solid amount of work done before my kids require assistance with their school tasks.
My work breaks consist of unloading the dishwasher, ordering groceries, and baking the cookies my son has been pleading for. Just last week, I had to pause a conference call when my son accidentally cut his thumb and I feared he might need stitches. My daughter has been a bit off lately, spending several afternoons in her room, crying. I frequently check on her, wanting to ensure she feels supported and has someone to confide in.
There are days when time seems to blur together, and I forget to take breaks to eat, which inevitably leads to me compensating for it later in the day. I know that if I don’t stay focused and finish my tasks, I’ll be up late trying to catch up while knowing that the next day will arrive just as early, bringing a new set of responsibilities.
Previously, I identified as a stay-at-home mom. Even when I began working part-time from home, I still referred to myself as a SAHM. If someone pointed out that I was a writer, I would downplay it by saying, “Yeah, but it’s only part-time.” After my divorce, I committed to making my writing a full-time career, but I couldn’t afford help, and my family still expected me to manage everything as before. Juggling three young kids and running a household alone meant I transitioned into a full-time, work-from-home mom.
The distinction is significant, and I believe it’s essential to discuss it without shame.
Working from home has been incredible, fulfilling, and (mostly) convenient, boosting my self-esteem. In these challenging times, I feel fortunate to have this opportunity. However, it’s considerably more challenging than simply being a stay-at-home mom, especially now that many of us are managing both remote learning and work at the same time.
This isn’t a competition; this is my acknowledgment of the fact that I’ve experienced both lifestyles. Balancing kids and a job at home is more demanding than having only kids around, which is already a formidable challenge. When your home doubles as your office, distractions abound—like the overflowing trash, laundry piles, and dishes that need attention. This blurs the lines between work and home life, making it hard to compartmentalize.
Even with scheduled times for my kids to talk to me or hiring help for meals and supervision, my presence at home means they still need me for support. I must constantly remind my three kids that I need quiet to work, I can’t take them out for spontaneous meals, and I can’t have them all streaming shows when I’m focused on my job.
Despite attempts to separate work and home life, at times it’s impossible. I’m managing multiple responsibilities—my job, household chores, family needs—simultaneously. Working from home means being ready for meetings while feeling overwhelmed as soon as I’m not “on,” because chaos can ensue in no time.
Moreover, the demands don’t cease just because I’m home. My kids (and others) often don’t understand why I can’t help them when I’m physically present. Every day, I have to remind them that I need peace to work and that I can’t drop everything for their whims.
I cherish my work and wouldn’t trade my financial independence for anything. However, the challenges are real, especially for single or divorced parents. Each day begins with uncertainty about how the day will unfold. I know I’ll have responsibilities to tackle, and loved ones who might need my attention, and I just have to navigate it all.
Because that’s the reality for working-from-home mothers.
For more insights on home insemination, you might enjoy reading this blog post that offers additional perspectives. If you’re looking for resources, check out Make a Mom’s guide for essential tools, and WebMD’s slideshow for helpful information on pregnancy and home insemination.
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In summary, transitioning from being a stay-at-home mom to a work-from-home mom presents a unique set of challenges. The dual responsibilities of managing a household and a career can be overwhelming, especially for single parents. Whether it’s handling unexpected emergencies or making time for family amidst work duties, the struggle is real. However, embracing this role can also lead to personal growth and fulfillment.
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