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Women who became stay-at-home moms in the last decade or so have faced unique challenges. Unlike the mothers of the ’90s, we’ve had social media at our fingertips, making it easier to connect. However, this new chapter — arguably the hardest of our lives — coincided with the rise of another phenomenon: multi-level marketing (MLM) schemes. Many of us, eager for social interaction and a break from diaper duty, got caught up in these programs, which ultimately harmed not only our finances but also our friendships.
MLMs have taken various forms, from leggings and health supplements to cleaning products and beauty items. Back in 2013, when I was overwhelmed with motherhood, I found myself drawn into an MLM scheme. A friend invited me to a presentation about “healthy living,” and as a sleep-deprived mom, I thought it would be a great escape. I was misled; instead of practical tips, I was hit with high-pressure sales tactics urging me to buy overpriced products or join their “team.”
These gatherings often masquerade as casual “girls’ nights.” I’d receive texts inviting me over for wine and snacks, only to find myself cornered into purchasing something I didn’t want or need. The pressure was palpable, with friends insisting that I could be the next success story like the one who just vacationed in a tropical paradise.
While it’s easy to walk away, doing so means risking those friendships. It’s a dilemma: endure the uncomfortable pitch or cut ties and miss out on social connections.
The reality is that MLMs have existed for a long time, but their model thrives on the internet, making recruitment easier than ever. Now, anyone with an Instagram account can become a “boss babe,” often at the expense of genuine friendships. The truth is that the likelihood of success in MLMs is dismal — studies show that only about 1% of participants actually make a profit. Many end up in debt after investing in products they can’t sell, leading to the loss of both money and friendships.
A poignant example comes from a recent discussion on social media, where a user shared the heartbreak of a long-term friendship strained by MLM pressures. When she refused to buy into her friend’s sales pitch, the friendship crumbled, illustrating a common fate for those involved in MLMs.
So why do women continue to join these schemes? They often seek flexible work options while managing family responsibilities — a challenge in today’s job market. MLMs promise independence and income, appealing to those who desire validation and success after feeling undervalued in their careers or as stay-at-home moms.
However, the fallout from these ventures is severe. Women often become isolated, fearing new friendships will come with hidden agendas. I personally faced this when I attempted to connect with a new mom friend, who admitted she hesitated to engage with me for fear of being sold something.
In conclusion, MLMs can be a toxic influence that jeopardizes friendships and finances. It’s crucial to recognize their pitfalls and resist the urge to join the team or recruit friends. The risk simply isn’t worth it.
For more insights on nurturing healthy relationships and exploring parenting options, check out nourishing recipes or learn about other topics at Make A Mom.
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Summary: MLMs pose significant risks not only to financial health but also to personal relationships, often leading to strained friendships and unfulfilled promises of success. Many women, seeking flexible work, find themselves trapped in a cycle of recruitment and pressure that can destroy their social connections.
Keyphrase: MLMs and friendships
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