Every day at 5 p.m., I find myself wanting to clock out. I dream of grabbing my bag, shutting down my laptop, pushing in my chair, and making a quick escape from work. However, there’s a catch: my workplace is my home. Yes, I am a stay-at-home mom (SAHM).
For nearly 19 years, I’ve embraced this role—19 years filled with exhaustion, joy, frustration, and the occasional monotony. After welcoming my first child, I made the decision to leave my full-time job behind, opting for the less financially rewarding path of full-time motherhood. It was the right choice for my family, and I’ve never regretted it.
As more children came along, returning to the workforce seemed unrealistic, especially with the high costs of childcare. In fact, we saved money with me at home. However, once all the kids started school, I felt a subtle societal nudge to re-enter the job market. After all, with no more daycare expenses and time on my hands, why wouldn’t I? What would I possibly do with my day now that I was home alone?
Throughout the years, I’ve had the opportunity to work part-time in flexible positions that allowed me to manage my time, working as little as five hours a week. While I had the chance to work when I wanted, the emotional pull to stay home was much stronger. Yet, I still frequently get asked, “What do you do all day?” and “Are you planning to go back to work?” My personal favorite: “Don’t you want to earn a paycheck and contribute to society?” For far too long, I didn’t have the courage to respond with “Why is it any of your business?” But I do now.
The truth is, I am busier than most people realize as a SAHM, even with all my children in school. Just the thought of juggling a full-time job along with four kids and household responsibilities sends me into a panic. I have mad respect for working mothers navigating that chaos.
I keep our household running smoothly by taking care of everything myself. If something is broken, dirty, or disorganized, I’m the one who tackles it. I volunteer at my kids’ schools during times when working moms can’t, which I feel privileged to do. It truly takes a village.
I stay active in my community, helping plan fundraisers and bake sales, and doing whatever I can to give back. When a working mom needs help due to childcare issues or a sick child, I’m there to lend a hand. I handle cooking, laundry, and ensure the family is on time for appointments and sports practices. Plus, I manage all the tasks my husband can’t get to because of his frequent travel.
And yes, sometimes I do absolutely nothing. I’m talking about those days when I simply can’t peel myself off the couch to binge-watch my favorite shows until the kids get home from school. I’ve stopped feeling guilty about those moments. I’ve earned the right to choose how I spend my time and if that means some days are dedicated to relaxation, so be it.
In conclusion, there’s a certain freedom in being a SAHM who no longer feels the need to justify her choices to others. Trailblazers exist in this space, and I proudly count myself among them. As soon as someone shows me a stay-at-home mom who clocks out at 5 p.m. every day, I’ll gladly explain what I do all day.
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Summary: The author reflects on her decision to remain a stay-at-home mom despite her children being in school. She addresses societal pressures to return to work while emphasizing the busy and fulfilling life she leads at home, managing her household, volunteering, and supporting her community. Ultimately, she asserts her right to choose her path without needing to justify it to others.