Take the stress and anxiety out of transitioning from a working mom to a stay-at-home mom with these practical tips!
Hello momma! Transitioning from being a working mom with a bustling career to full-time motherhood can feel a little bit like scaling Mount Everest! 😆 But fear not, you’re not alone!
I’ve been there, done that – I have over a decade of experience! And I’m ready to share all the lessons learned, and the wisdom I wish I had from the start.
In this post, we’ll tackle everything from time management to self-care during challenging times. My aim? To help make your new adventure less about stress and more about the sheer joy of motherhood!!
If there’s one nugget of advice I’d give my younger self, it would be: simply relish in being a mom. The rest will fall into place. Trust me, they grow up quickly!
So, let’s dive in so you can return to showering those little ones with love!
How to go from working to stay-at-home mom
Transitioning from work to home can be overwhelming! Despite challenges and feelings of losing identity, remember you’re embracing a new lifestyle.
1. Leave work on a good note
Firstly, bid adieus amigos to your job in a positive manner.
Remember, you’re transitioning to a path filled with joyous moments, not quitting!
Wrap up any pending tasks, ensure a smooth handoff of duties, and express gratitude to your colleagues and bosses.
Think of it as leaving a playdate: you tidy up and thank the host! It’s important not to burn bridges – who knows when you might want to return? Make them wish for your speedy comeback!
2. Mourn the loss of your old identity
Transitioning to a stay-at-home mom (sahm) means bidding farewell to your professional identity, and that’s okay! It’s normal to feel disoriented or even devastated. Acknowledge these feelings and remember, you’re not “just a mom” but a comforter, teacher, role model and much more. Your worth isn’t tied to a professional title; it’s rooted in the love and care you pour into your family.
Embrace this transition by crafting a new identity. Set aside daily “me” time to explore passions beyond motherhood. Whether it’s reading, painting, gardening, or blogging, chase those interests! This will help your new identity emerge.
Consider how you can use your skills in this new phase, like volunteering at your child’s school or offering neighborhood tutoring. Connect with other sahms for shared experiences and support. Embrace this journey of self-discovery and step into your new identity with pride and confidence. 🥂
3. Learn your new job description
As a stay-at-home mom, your job description is multifaceted and dynamic, far beyond typical parenting. You’re a caregiver, ensuring your kids are safe, healthy, and emotionally well. You’re an educator, fostering your children’ curiosity, love for learning, and teaching life skills.
You’re also a project manager, handling tasks like scheduling appointments, budgeting, meal planning, and coordinating social and school activities together. You’re a mentor and role model, guiding your kids through life’s challenges and instilling family values.
Being a sahm is a rewarding full-time job with endless learning opportunities. But remember, amidst the hustle, take time for yourself to recharge. After all, you can only fill other people’s cups when yours is full!
4. Make your job a professional one
Momma, your job as a stay-at-home mom is indeed a professional one! Just like daycare providers or early childhood educators, you can harness the power of routines, schedules, and planning for an organized and stimulating environment at home.
Establishing daily routines for meals, nap times, homework, and playtime provides a sense of security for your kids and helps foster self-discipline. Balance structured activities with free play and rest for a well-rounded routine.
Plan weekly schedules for educational activities that enhance different skills. Incorporate sensory play, arts and crafts, storytime, and outdoor activities for a diverse learning experience. And remember, room for spontaneity and flexibility is essential!
Planning meals, setting out clothes, and preparing learning activities in advance can make your days run smoother. These strategies not only boost your child’s development but also bring a professional touch to your role as a sahm.
By setting up a smooth daily routine, you’ll feel more professional and fulfilled in your role, creating a happy environment for both you and your kids.
5. Mentally prepare yourself
Thriving as a sahm rquires mental preparation, much like strategizing for a significant work project! This role demands dedication and resilience, so take time to identify your values and priorities. These will guide your decisions and shape the values you want to instill in your kids.
Learn to say ‘no’ when needed. It helps set healthy boundaries and prevents feelings of being overwhelmed. Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup!
Maintain a positive outlook. There will be challenging days, but a positive attitude (and perhaps a little prayer!) will see you through. If you need help staying positive, try practicing gratitude. It can be a powerful tool for maintaining a positive mindset.
Keep smiling and keep your spirits high. You’re not just a stay-at-home mom; you’re a pro at it! You’ve got this, momma!
6. Get comfortable with never being alone
As a stay-at-home mom, you might often feel like you’re alone, spending your day primarily with young kids. But in reality, you’re never truly alone. The lack of solitude is a significant part of this journey.
There’s a constant stream of activity, noise, and needs to be met. Little fingers tugging at your clothes, little voices calling out “Mommy!”, and little bodies that always seem to be wherever you are, especially when you crave solitude the most.
It’s a unique kind of loneliness – being alone, yet never actually having a moment to yourself. Your freedom is swapped for endless responsibility, and ‘me time’ becomes a luxury as rare as a unicorn sighting. 😆
This can be particularly challenging for those women who value their personal space and solitude. However, amidst this constant company, there are moments of joy, laughter, and deep connection that are unique to motherhood.
The key is finding a balance within this new normal, navigating the beautiful chaos that is motherhood with grace and patience.
7. Embrace chaos
Embrace the unpredictable, mommas!
As a stay-at-home mom, life is filled with unexpected twists and turns.
Despite your best efforts to plan, things may not always go as envisioned. But that’s okay! Flexibility is key; it’s about progression, not perfection.
When things get overwhelming, take a breather or ask for help. Remember, amidst the chaos, there’s a beautiful journey unfolding.
Similarly, let go of idealistic notions of motherhood.
There’ll be days when not everything gets done, and that’s perfectly fine!
Manage expectations realistically, prioritizing safety, love, and happiness.
So, embrace the whirlwind, celebrate small wins, and remember: you’re giving your all to this sahm journey, and that’s more than enough! 🥂
8. Focus on just 3 priorities every day
Limiting yourself to just three tasks on your to-do list each day can be one of the best things you do to manage your daily responsibilities.
This doesn’t mean you should limit yourself to only three tasks a day. Rather, these are the three most important tasks that you aim to complete. They’re your ‘big wins’ for the day, and anything else you manage to do is a bonus.
Why only three? It’s about quality, not quantity. Zeroing in on three key priorities allows you to focus and pour your energy into what matters most.
Remember, it’s about making progress, not just ticking boxes.
So, before you start your day, identify your top three tasks and focus on those. Maybe it’s cooking a healthy meal, finishing a work report, or spending quality time with your kids. Or perhaps it’s going for a run, calling a friend, or decluttering your workspace. Be clear about your big three.
If you finish them and still have time and energy left, great! You can either relax (you earned it!) or tackle a few more tasks if you’re up to it.
Celebrate your wins, big and small. This approach is about finding balance, avoiding burnout, celebrating progress over perfection, and learning to prioritize your time effectively.
And remember, it’s okay if everything doesn’t get done in a day! There’s always tomorrow.
9. Give your finances a makeover
Taking control of your finances is one of the most empowering things you can do. It might seem daunting, but it can be as simple as setting up a budget.
Start by understanding where every penny goes – it’s about telling your money where to go instead of wondering where it went!
Track every expense to know how much you spend in each category. This helps in creating a realistic budget.
After setting up your budget, make a plan to pay off debt. It might seem overwhelming, but remember, every little bit counts. Even the smallest payments can make a significant difference and lighten the financial load.
And lastly, start saving. Even if it’s just a small amount each month, it will add up over time. It’s all about creating a safety net for those unexpected costs life throws our way.
Remember, taking charge of your finances isn’t just about the numbers, it’s about providing a stable and secure future for you and your family!
10. Keep communication open with your spouse
Transitioning into the role of a stay-at-home mom can bring shifts in your relationship with your spouse. Your roles are changing, and so might your dynamics.
You might be spending more time at home, handling household tasks, or managing the kids’ daily needs. Your spouse may be taking on the role of the primary provider, which comes with its own set of challenges and pressures.
Recognizing these changes and discussing them openly is crucial. Open communication is key to navigating this new phase together!
Remember, you’re a team. Make time to share about your day, discuss any challenges, and appreciate each other. It’s not just about addressing problems, but also celebrating joys.
The journey as parents is a beautiful one, filled with ups and downs. It’s important to stay on the same page because you’re in this together!
11. Establish a regular date night
Just like a plant needs watering, your relationship needs regular nourishment, momma. A regular date night is an intentional time for you and your partner to reconnect and reaffirm your love.
Date nights let you step away from the daily routine and embrace the love and partnership that made you parents in the first place!
It’s those moments where you’re not just ‘mom and dad’, but ‘you and me’. It doesn’t have to be extravagant – a movie night at home or a simple coffee date can do wonders!
This commitment can strengthen your bond, enhance communication, and foster understanding. So, momma, schedule that date night and make it a cherished ritual in your parenthood journey!
12. Find a support network
Parenting is rewarding, but it’s also tough, momma. You’re not alone in this journey, and seeking help is okay.
A strong support network is a lifeline for every mom. This circle of trust can lighten your load and enrich your parenting journey.
Your network could be family, friends, or fellow mom friends. They can offer practical help, like babysitting, or advice from their experiences.
It’s about creating an environment where you feel heard and supported. Finding your tribe and leaning on them during tough times enhances your resilience and well-being.
So, momma, reach out and find your support network. Remember, it takes a village to raise a child, and you deserve yours!
Join our Sahm Fam for weekly tips, trips, and inspiration delivered to your inbox.
Join the Sahm Fam!
Subscribe to receive weekly stay at home mom tips, inspiration, and motivation delivered right to your inbox!
Frequently Asked Questions
Motherhood brings many questions, and that’s okay!
Here are short answers to some FAQs. Remember, no question is too small when it comes to caring for your little one. 🥰
How do I transition from working to stay at home mom?
Discuss financial implications and responsibilities with your partner, reduce working hours gradually if possible, and seek support from other stay-at-home moms.
What is the stay at home mom syndrome?
It refers to feelings of isolation, lack of identity, or even depression experienced by some mothers transitioning from work to full-time child care. Maintaining social interactions and seeking support can help.
Is being a stay at home mom harder than working?
Being a stay-at-home mom can be challenging as it involves constant caregiving without structured breaks. However, difficulty varies based on personal circumstances and perspectives.
Do kids with stay at home moms do better?
Being a stay-at-home mom can be challenging as it involves constant caregiving without structured breaks. However, difficulty varies based on personal circumstances and perspectives.
Can you be a working stay at home mom?
Yes, you can balance child-rearing with remote jobs, often referred to as being a “work-at-home mom” (WAHM). This requires good time management and flexibility.
What jobs are best for stay at home moms?
Jobs offering flexibility to balance professional tasks and child-rearing responsibilities are ideal. These could include freelance writing, virtual tutoring, graphic designing, or starting an online business.
Is it better for a mother to work or stay at home?
The right decision often depends on individual circumstances, personal beliefs, and what’s best for the family’s wellbeing. Both choices have their own benefits and challenges.
What should the salary of a stay at home mom be?
Putting a monetary value on the work of a stay-at-home mom can be challenging as it encompasses a broad range of duties including child care, cooking, cleaning, and more. However, some calculations estimate it to be equivalent to a six-figure salary when considering the hours and varied tasks involved. Ultimately, it’s a priceless and important job, that goes beyond any numerical figure.
At the end of the day…
Whether you’re a working mom or a homebound mom, it all boils down to what suits you and your family best. There’s no one-size-fits-all here!! Each choice is like a different flavor of ice cream, with its own sweet moments and occasional brain-freeze challenges. 😂🤣
For sahms, the paycheck doesn’t come in dollars but in priceless moments like snuggles, bedtime stories, and caring for our little ones.
The journey may feel like a rollercoaster, but it’s rewarding. It’s not just about shaping your child’s future but also about finding your rhythm.
Each mom’s journey is a different pace and a unique dance, so embrace your own rhythm!
Before you go!
If you’re craving more insights and behind-the-scenes peeks into the life of a stay-at-home mom, don’t miss my comprehensive guide: “How to be a stay at home mom: A completely honest guide to becoming a sahm”.
It’s chock-full of honest experiences and practical tips to help you navigate this beautiful journey. Strap in, momma, and let’s ride this rollercoaster together!
More on staying home
Feeling Overwhelmed, Stay at Home Mom? Here’s Everything You Need to Know
Budgeting to be a Stay at Home Mom: How Much Should I Save?
How to be a Stay at Home Mom on One Income – and Still Survive
The SAHM Toy Guide: 31 Surprising Children’s Products to Help You Crush It as a SAHM!
