Tuesday, January 5, 2010

The Case For Stay at Home Mothers




So if you haven't heard I want to be a stay at home mom. Now before you get all worked up about it let me clarify that I do intend to work, just not in the traditional sense.

I didn't use to want a big family until this past year, but the decision to stay at home was decided when I realized I could afford to two years ago . In fact it's one of the main reasons for getting out of debt. Even though I'm no where near becoming a mother yet, I wanted to make a case for the ones that already are (by choice). As I have talked to many of my girlfriends, they believe that you MUST work and there is no way you can't be at home with kids.

I believe this to be untrue and let me tell ya why. One, Lifestyle plays a big part in being able to stay at home. That means, no 250,000 homes, no fancy cars, or decked out wardrobes. I decided that once I became a mother none of that "Stuff" would ever mean more than my children do. Do I want nice stuff? sure but I won't sacrifice my kids time with me vs a day care, or their college funds. Two, Day care cost way to much!! Most people don't factor in all expenses when deciding to work a traditional job or stay home. If your not an avid budgeting guru you could spend way more in food, clothing, gas and other "gotta have its" during the processes of keeping your child in day care. Eventually it all adds up to my entire check, why do that when I could cut back and save by staying home with them.

Lastly on my list im lazy!! (kidding). Its a very rewarding thing. I don't want to live my life working and missing out on those precious moments my children will have while I am at work all day, its just not worth it.

Currently I am In the process of paying off my debt and obtaining training in fields that will allow me to still work as an entrepreneur, making my own hours and care for my kids. Its such an exciting feeling, now all I have to do is convince the man in my life that this is the way to go.

So what do you think, should all women stay in the workforce? Is being a sahm much more valueable than a steady paycheck? Would you be willing to cut back a life style to care for little ones or do you feel you were born to work so thats just the way it is?

4 comments:

Alonzo-MochaMoney.com said...

I think its great that you want to stay at home and focus on the important things in life.

With today's technology you really don't have to chose one or the other anymore (job vs family) - you can design your own life around what you feel is important. You can be an entrepreneur AND an involved parent - all from your own home.

Divine and Debt Free said...

Alonzo that is true!! you raise an excellent point. Makes me want to discover and research more jobs that women can do while working from home. Not just for myself but for others that struggle to come up with ideas.

LJ2Blessed said...

Mikki - I just found your blog last week and I'm working my way through it to get "up to speed". This post really touched my heart because I'm a working mom who wants to be home with my baby! I really give you kudos for thinking about this ahead of time and having a stance, and also working your way towards your goal! Once my husband completes his degree and we tackle some debt, we do plan to transition me home to care for the kid(s) - we'd like to have a large family, too! I'm still reading...but had to comment and encourage you real quick *hug*

Divine and Debt Free said...

LJ2BLESSED Thank you so much for visiting my page!! I believe if you get on the program and start really working it you can be at home with the little one. It takes a special effort but it can be done, one way is that car payment!! lol

*hugs*