Women who transitioned to being stay-at-home moms in the last decade or so have faced unique challenges. While social media has made it easier to connect with other moms compared to previous generations, it has also paved the way for a troubling trend that many have fallen prey to: multi-level marketing (MLM). This phenomenon has not only strained our finances but has also jeopardized our friendships, leaving many feeling disillusioned instead of empowered.
The MLM industry offers a vast array of products—from leggings and spices to skincare and wellness items. In 2013, amid the chaos of motherhood, I found myself drawn into this world. A friend invited me to an event promoting “healthy living,” and as a busy mom of three under five, I was intrigued. I thought I’d discover meal-prepping tips or healthy recipes. Instead, I was met with a sales pitch urging me to invest hundreds in fruit-infused supplements.
Time and again, I encountered vague invitations for “girls’ nights” that turned out to be thinly veiled promotional events. I often felt pressured to buy something, despite not needing a $70 pair of leggings, just to support a friend. The experience was infuriating, compounded by the realization that these gatherings often devolved into pitches about how I, too, could become a successful “boss babe” like the star sellers they showcased.
The reality is, MLMs have been around for decades, but their tactics have evolved. Unlike the straightforward Tupperware parties of the past, today’s MLMs often masquerade as casual meetups. The truth is a staggering 99% of MLM participants end up losing money. The few who do succeed are often outnumbered by those who find themselves in debt after investing in products and trying to recruit others.
A recent Reddit post echoed my frustrations—a long-standing friendship was strained after one friend attempted to push her MLM products on another. The trust and connection that once existed were eroded by the pressure to buy into an unreliable business model.
So why do women continue to engage with MLMs, even at the cost of friendships? An article in the Washington Post highlights that many women seek flexible work options that fit around their family commitments, making MLMs seem like an appealing choice. They promise a path to financial independence while still fulfilling domestic roles. Unfortunately, this often leads to strained relationships with those we care about.
Today, the toxic environment created by MLMs has caused many to hesitate in forming new friendships, fearing ulterior motives. I experienced this firsthand after moving to a new city; one mom I reached out to admitted she was wary of my intentions, fearing I might try to sell her something.
In summary, MLMs can be extremely harmful—not only to our wallets but also to our social circles. The risks far outweigh the potential rewards. It’s better to avoid these schemes entirely and nurture genuine friendships instead. If you’re interested in learning more about navigating your options for starting a family, check out this excellent resource on fertility treatment.
For more insights, you can read one of our other blog posts here. Additionally, if you’re looking for reputable information about home insemination, consider visiting Make A Mom. They provide valuable resources to help guide you through your journey. You can also explore March of Dimes for further support.
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