My little one has become so accustomed to hearing the phrase “Mommy’s busy” that it’s now part of his daily vocabulary, even when I’m merely scrolling through my phone. He knows that if I pull out my laptop, it’s serious business. Yet, I can’t help but feel a pang of guilt every time I have to utter those words, especially when deadlines loom. He didn’t choose to join me in this whirlwind of life, but he’s also my motivation for striving to create a work-from-home lifestyle that allows me to be present in his life.
As a single mother, my journey has its complexities, but I was determined to find a way. I started as a babysitter, bringing my son along with me. While technically not working from home, I considered myself a work-from-home mom because my goal was twofold: to be there for my son and to avoid the outrageous costs of childcare.
Initially, the high price of childcare pushed me to seriously consider working from home. When my son was born, I was in a relationship, but with his father working long hours, I realized I had to contribute financially. However, after crunching the numbers, I discovered that I would be earning just enough to pay someone else to care for my son. That was simply not feasible.
This realization led me to explore remote work options, particularly freelance writing, which opened up an entirely new realm for me. Now, I could blend work and family life more seamlessly. Instead of adhering to a rigid babysitting schedule, I could take my son to the park or the museum and still jot down ideas or articles on my smartphone while we enjoyed our time together. It was a liberating shift for both of us.
However, there are days when I need to focus intensely. During those times, I’ve been known to let him use a tablet or watch a show for a bit of distraction. He does entertain himself quite a bit, but inevitably, he finds me and demands my attention for some playtime. Toddlers thrive on attention, and while he understands “Mommy’s busy” at times, there are plenty of moments when his need for interaction takes precedence.
One of the biggest hurdles I face as a work-at-home mom is managing time effectively. The work-life balance is challenging for all parents, but working from home adds an extra layer that can feel overwhelming. Sometimes, I must prioritize my work over his immediate needs, simply because we need to pay the bills. For instance, on a particularly lovely day, my mother suggested taking my son to the park. While I wanted to, I had to explain that my editor wouldn’t be sympathetic to a nice day when deadlines are in play.
I often find myself typing away during nap times or late into the night, fueled by Cherry Coke and snacks to keep me awake. It’s certainly not the easiest path, and it may not suit everyone, but I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity. I cherish the memories we create and the laughter we share. In the years to come, when my son is in school and busy with friends, I’ll look back fondly on our adventures together, treasure those late nights of writing, and not regret the moments I had to say “Mommy’s busy.” The trade-off is absolutely worth it.
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Summary
Balancing work and motherhood is no easy feat, especially for a single mom navigating the world of freelance writing. The challenges of time management, financial responsibilities, and the constant need for attention from a young child create a unique landscape for work-at-home moms. Despite the hurdles, the opportunity to be present in their child’s life and to create lasting memories makes the journey worthwhile.