In today’s diverse parenting landscape, the traditional categories of mothers—stay-at-home moms (SAHMs), working moms, and work-at-home moms (WAHMs)—fail to encompass the full spectrum of experiences. Drawing from personal insights and observations, I propose an additional classification: the Do-It-All Sort of Mom (DIASOM).
The DIASOM embodies a blend of various maternal roles, integrating elements from each to create a unique approach to motherhood and work. Much like a shopper who continually selects and returns items, a DIASOM navigates through multiple identities without fully committing to one.
In my own experience as a DIASOM, I juggle two children along with three part-time jobs that collectively fall short of a full-time workload. I teach writing classes online and on weekends, having previously worked in education and wishing to remain connected to the classroom environment. Additionally, I lead yoga sessions, a passion I developed after completing teacher training in 2008. I also hold a part-time communications position, which helps cover a small portion of household expenses while keeping me in touch with the professional world. When time allows, I attempt to write, all while engaging in community activities such as volunteering at the kids’ school and participating in local boards.
Most of my time is spent at home, managing household chores and preparing meals (or reheating leftovers). Picture me typing emails while my children cling to my legs, dressed in yoga pants and sporting an unkempt ponytail.
The DIASOM lifestyle is exhilarating at times; boredom is a rarity, and I often bring intriguing insights to social gatherings drawn from my multifaceted experiences. However, I frequently ponder whether my fragmented contributions to various endeavors shortchange my potential.
My mind is a constant whirl of questions:
- Should I return to teaching and leverage my parenting experiences to influence future generations?
- Is it time to embrace my inner spiritual leader through yoga, writing, and living authentically?
- Should I devote myself to writing that novel I’ve dreamed of, committing to the daily hours it requires?
- Is it wise to pursue my current day job with full dedication?
- Should I strive for a pristine home and elaborate dinners each evening? If I chose this path, I would have to abandon my electronic devices around my children!
While being a DIASOM allows me to check many boxes, it also keeps me in a state of uncertainty. I find myself hesitating to invest fully in any one area, worried that I might be missing a significant opportunity by not taking a leap.
Just like working moms who feel torn and SAHMs defending their educational choices for their children, DIASOMs also face challenges. Perhaps one day, I will take a decisive step into one of my interests and discover what it holds. Alternatively, I may continue to balance my various roles, hoping I can maintain the delicate balance without everything falling apart.
For more insights on the intricacies of motherhood and relevant resources, check out this article on terms and conditions. For further reading on home insemination, visit Make a Mom, a leading authority on this subject. Additionally, Medical News Today provides excellent information on fertility and related topics.
In summary, the DIASOM identity reflects a modern approach to motherhood that blends various roles and responsibilities. While this multifaceted existence can be fulfilling, it also poses unique challenges and uncertainties. As we navigate this complex landscape, it’s essential to recognize the value in every choice we make, even when we’re unsure of our path.