Why I Work Outside The Home [Work]
Have you ever met a working mom who does not question if it was better for her to give up her job and stay home with the kids? I haven’t. In fact, this question seems to resurface every time there is a crisis or sickness with our children.
We don’t have to leave that question unasked, and we don’t have to leave it unanswered, either.
Why Work?
There are only two things anyone should consider when facing the question of working outside the home: desire and finances.
Desire. Parenting is a tough job. It is demanding, draining, and can be tedious and isolating. It is also greatly rewarding and important.
Some people are not cut out to be at-home parents; it is that simple. Being honest with yourself will determine whether or not you have the desire to be an at-home parent. If you do, great! If you don’t, don’t beat yourself up about it.
Finances. Equally important with desire is the financial aspect. If you have to work because there is no other source of income, or if you choose to work, you have to consider if your income is covering the cost of your working (daycare, transportation, clothing, etc).
There are people who have to work, single parents and others, but most women with a partner who is working can fool themselves. Don’t think you “have” to work. My family growing up survived on my father’s meager salary, supplemented with a big garden and my mother’s thriftiness.
Why Do I Work?
Desire. I love my daughter dearly. However, I am not a good person to stay at home for long periods of time. I need the stimulation and socialization of adults to keep me challenged and engaged with life. I have no desire to stay at home with her, but I do cherish the time we get together.
Financials. My salary does cover the cost of daycare, as well as transportation and clothing.
How I Balanced
Almost two years ago I decided that it was important to me to find a way to have my daughter not go to daycare before and after school. In January 2007, after much negotiation with my employer and client, I cut back my hours to part time. I traded my benefits and long-term security for this arrangement; but luckily we can get benefits through my husband’s job.
When my daughter started kindergarten (half-day), I was able to put her on the bus in the mornings. She still had an after-school program, but she enjoyed her time there. This school year I will be putting her on the bus and meeting the bus in the afternoon. She will experience more at-home time, and I will still be able to work.
Photo by Mike9Alive
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