Dear Stay-at-Home Mom,
Hello! I’m a working mother, and as I navigate this journey, I’ve come to realize that we share far more similarities than differences. Unfortunately, online, it often feels like a competition to see who’s facing bigger challenges.
Here’s my perspective: Motherhood is a collaborative effort, and we genuinely need each other. To truly support one another and foster the community we all desire, it’s crucial that we take the time to understand each other better.
So, here are five things I’d love for you to know about me, the working mom:
- I see your hard work. I’m fully aware that you’re not just lounging around all day. Your role is demanding, and I get a taste of that myself on weekends when I’m home with my child. It’s exhausting, even with my partner’s help. I truly admire how you manage everything for your little ones and carry the weight of household responsibilities on your shoulders. I know it’s no walk in the park.
- Work isn’t a break for me. My job comes with its own set of challenges—bosses, clients, and deadlines keep me hustling throughout the day. I hardly take lunch breaks because I’m always trying to stay ahead, all while nervously waiting for The Call from daycare. You know the one: “Your kid has a fever, come pick them up.” I push myself so that when that call comes, I can drop everything and be there for my child.
- I crave your friendship. I see your joyful posts about playdates and community activities, and I’ll admit, I feel a pang of envy. Building friendships as a working mom can be tough. So, when you spot me at the park in my work clothes, please don’t judge! Imagine me in comfy yoga pants. I’m there to soak up quality time with my child before dinner prep, just like you.
- I’m a full-time mom, too. I assure you, I’m not outsourcing my motherhood. Walking into my office doesn’t mean I stop being a mom. In fact, I’m regularly in touch with my daughter’s school and healthcare providers, trying to organize family activities whenever I can. It’s a lot like what you do, just tailored for my schedule. And yes, being a working mom also means helping provide for my family financially.
- Career choices aren’t about prioritizing one over the other. This is a sore spot for me, especially since I rarely hear the same question directed at dads. I work because our family needs my income, and I genuinely love my job. Plus, I believe in the importance of having women in the workforce. I’m part of a generation pushing for better maternity benefits and equal pay—because I want a brighter future for my daughter and yours too.
Stay-at-Home Mom, we truly need one another. Instead of focusing on what sets us apart, let’s celebrate what we can offer each other. Together, we can pave the way for our daughters to have even more opportunities in balancing careers and family life. Let’s also show our sons what support looks like when they need to take that urgent call from daycare.
Let’s unite as a team. It will be fun, and I promise to bring the snacks! And hey, I’m all ears if you have things you want me to understand too.
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Summary:
This letter from a working mom to stay-at-home moms emphasizes the need for solidarity among mothers. It acknowledges the challenges each faces, expresses admiration for the work done by stay-at-home moms, and calls for friendship and collaboration to create a better future for their children.