Parenting
As a work-at-home mom, I often find myself navigating a unique space that doesn’t quite fit the traditional molds of either working or stay-at-home moms. After leaving my full-time job six years ago to freelance as an editor and writer, I’ve embraced this new lifestyle, even if it means juggling client calls while my toddler climbs on me or sneaking in emails during playground visits. It’s a constant balancing act, fueled by caffeine and late nights spent meeting deadlines. Unfortunately, these experiences often lead to some rather frustrating comments from others. Here are five of the most common remarks I hear:
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“You must have so much time to yourself!”
Really? If you think proofreading a 700-page manuscript counts as “me time,” we need to chat. I work from home, which means my time is filled with emails, laundry, and party planning, not lounging on the couch with a drink. In reality, very few moms—working or not—actually enjoy genuine downtime when their kids are away.
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“You’re so fortunate to work from home.”
Yes, I appreciate the flexibility, but let’s not sugarcoat it. The reality is that I’ve made significant sacrifices for this lifestyle: no steady paycheck, no 401(k), and no employer-provided health insurance. Every cramped corner of my apartment reminds me of the choices I’ve made, including delaying potty training because our single bathroom can’t handle another occupant.
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“You get to wear pajamas all day!”
True, and it’s pretty great! If it weren’t for the school run, I might not get dressed at all. However, let’s be honest—there are days when personal hygiene takes a backseat to deadlines, and I sometimes envy the moms who manage to show up at drop-off looking polished and put together.
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“Your job sounds like a dream. I should do that!”
Sure, if you can magically rewind time and get a degree in creative writing, followed by years of experience in publishing. This isn’t a mere hobby; it’s a career that demands dedication and hard work, often for significantly less pay and with no benefits. So, yes, it might sound appealing, but it’s certainly not simple.
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“You have the best of both worlds.”
In some ways, yes, I do get to be present for my children while pursuing my passion. However, it often feels like the worst of both worlds as well. I find myself cramming a full workday into a few hours, frequently pulled in different directions by my kids while trying to meet client needs. It’s a delicate balancing act that can be exhausting, yet I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
Being a work-at-home mom can be perplexing to others, leading to misunderstandings about my lifestyle and career. Friends sometimes overlook the fact that I have a professional life just because I’m not commuting in business attire. Meanwhile, stay-at-home moms might dismiss my experience since I have a child in daycare part-time. Yet, I navigate both worlds daily, and let me tell you, we’re all just trying to do our best for our kids. It’s a reminder that whether we’re working from home or not, we share common challenges and aspirations.
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Summary
Being a work-at-home mom comes with its own set of challenges and misconceptions. Despite the flexibility, the reality often includes long hours, little downtime, and the need for constant juggling between work and parenting. The experience is unique, blending the demands of both worlds while navigating through misunderstandings from others.