Since you were in high school, you've always been an ambitious person who strives for success. You didn't waste any time after you graduated college to land the job of your dreams just a few short months later. However, now that you have another positive pregnancy test in your hand and your 18-month-old child is sitting on your hip, you can't help but wonder if the cost of paying for two children in daycare is no longer worth the cost of being a working mother. Suddenly, going back to work after having a baby might not seem as attractive or possible. But how do you go from being a career woman to being a stay-at-home mom?
We won't lie - it can be an emotional rollercoaster. However, we've prepared tips to help you make this transition as easy and stress-free as it can possibly can be!
How to easily transition from career woman to stay-at-home mom?
The change from a working mom to a stay-at-home mom can be a jarring experience for many. The fact there are always people in your environment judging you doesn't make it easier. Quite the opposite, it can only make you question your decision and wonder if you're doing the right thing.
There's no escaping it - with any major transition; there are bound to be some unpleasant shocks. We're here to prepare you for them with the tips we've gathered from an experienced maternal mental health professional. Before quitting your career as a full-time parent, here's what you should keep in mind.
Envision your transition from career woman to stay-at-home mom
First, take your time to imagine what you would like your life as a stay-at-home mom to look like. Is taking the kids to the park anytime you want something you're looking forward to? Perhaps you always wanted to start a tradition and take your kids out for treats every Tuesday at noon? Even though it's impossible to know what's waiting for you once you return home, having a goal in mind will make this life-altering transition becomes more attainable.
Don't forget that your new "job" is still a job
Making a smooth transition begins with confirming that your new position is one of significance and authority even though your workspace is far away from the boardroom. The loss of one's professional identity is one of the most challenging aspects of shifting from the workplace to the home for some women.
That doesn't mean that your job is any less significant because you're now influencing and leading little people. So, never underestimate the impact you can have on future generations by taking on this essential duty. Think about it - this "job" can impact not just your everyday life but generations to come. Remember this if you ever start feeling like you are on the brink of parental burnout.
Be on the same page with your spouse
If your spouse isn't used to being at home with the kids all day, they may not understand what it's like. Also, as you're no longer contributing financially to the family, you might start feeling like you owe it to your family to meet their expectations. This is a significant shift in power that cannot be overlooked. Remember, even though you might not be bringing as much money to your family, you are contributing in many other, even more, significant ways.
That's why it's crucial to have an open conversation with your partner and ensure that their expectations and yours are in sync. If you avoid this conversation and if expectations aren't satisfied, regardless of which side of the table they are on, at some point, both of you will get irritated and maybe even resentful.
For instance, if you are about to relocate, it shouldn't be your responsibility to organize everything simply because you don't have a full-time job. Instead, talk to your partner and split tasks. As moving with kids can be challenging, you can focus on finding ways to help them enjoy the process while your spouse can handle the logistics, for example.
Make time for yourself
As a stay-at-home mom, you're going to be the most sought-after person. As a result, it's critical that you set aside time each day to take care of yourself. Taking the dog out for a walk or running errands alone is a great way to spend some quality alone time. Alternatively, before cuddling up with your spouse after the kids have gone to bed, try reading a book or meditating.
Working outside of the home gives you a lot of time to yourself that you might not otherwise have. Your commute, lunch break, and unrestricted toilet breaks are all included in your schedule. After quitting your job, you'll have minimal downtime and time alone. If you don't already have a favorite pastime, find one now.
Be prepared for the unexpected
There is no one to tell you what to do or how to spend your time when you are at home. After all, stay-at-home life can be more unpredictable than working life. You never know what kind of fun or nerve-wracking adventure is waiting for you.
Aside from that, kids have a way of altering plans without you even realizing it. That's why "go with the flow" should be your new slogan. Adapting to this new pace can be challenging, but don't lose heart if things don't go according to your plan.
Be easy on yourself!
We hope our article helps you have a successful and stress-free transition from a career woman to stay- at -home mom. However, we fully understand if you do feel overwhelmed at times. After all, it's an enormous change, and it's only normal to experience hiccups along the way. But if you feel like it's too much to handle, don't be afraid to reach out to a maternal mental health expert and ask for help. Don't think of it as selfish because by helping yourself be satisfied and happy outside your life as a mom, you'll also be helping your family.
Alexis Desousa is an English major who worked in publishing for a long time. When her fourth baby was born, she decided that she had enough of the corporate world and wanted more quality time with her family. However, she still works part-time as a content writer, so she continues doing what she's passionate about. Her favorite pastime is taking Desousa family camping trips that take place at least four times a year.
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