Approximately ten months ago, I embarked on a journey of writing that I hadn’t experienced in over a decade and a half. It was serendipitous that I picked it up again, revealing a passion I had long suppressed. After dedicating twelve years to my family, I felt an intense need to reclaim a piece of myself. I created a blog, formed connections with other parents, and it was exhilarating. However, I also yearned to contribute financially to my household. Making money doing something I loved felt like a dream.
As I delved into the world of freelance writing, I quickly encountered a major hurdle: the dreaded resume. Sure, I once worked as a high school English teacher, but that felt like a lifetime ago. My years spent nurturing my family hadn’t left me with anything that felt “resume-worthy.” Why is it that the invaluable work of raising children and managing a household is often overlooked in professional settings?
We dedicate ourselves to the remarkable task of raising compassionate individuals, which is arguably one of the most challenging and rewarding jobs there is. Yet, this experience often doesn’t translate to traditional employment metrics. There are no paychecks or benefits tied to this work, no accolades to showcase, and it certainly doesn’t fit neatly on a resume.
Some may argue that I was aware of the sacrifices required when I decided to be a stay-at-home parent. Yes, I understood the implications of stepping away from my career, including the risk of letting my skills go rusty. Nonetheless, I have not been dormant. I remain a creative and capable individual, ready to re-enter the workforce. If given the chance to present my life experiences, I believe they would rival many conventional qualifications.
Do I know the latest versions of Excel or PowerPoint? No, but I’ve mastered various GPS tracking systems for my kids, parental controls, and have navigated technology far beyond my expectations. I’m confident I could learn those other programs quickly.
How well do I handle criticism? Well, I’ve been a parent for over a decade, managing a tween daughter and two spirited boys while being married for 15 years—I’d say I’m quite adept at it.
Am I a diligent worker? I haven’t had a full night’s sleep in years and I’m responsible for the emotional and physical well-being of three energetic children (and two dogs). The math is simple!
Do I possess strong communication skills? Over the years, I’ve interacted with a vast array of people, from educators to healthcare professionals, all of which have sharpened my ability to communicate effectively.
Steps to Transition Back into the Job Market
So, what steps can we take when we wish to transition back into the job market after years of being at home? I refuse to settle for roles that don’t resonate with me just because I lack conventional job descriptions on my resume. I will persist in my writing, continue to push forward, and assert that my years spent raising a family should be recognized as legitimate experience, not merely a hiatus.
If we choose to return to work, we must embrace our worth. We must acknowledge our contributions and move forward, proud of the long hours, challenges faced, skills acquired, and the lives we’ve nurtured. We are resilient, reliable, and formidable. We won’t allow ourselves to be undervalued. Our experiences are immeasurable; they fill our cup to overflow. As we step into new opportunities, let us remember—this is just the beginning.
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Summary
The transition back to the workforce after being a stay-at-home parent can be challenging due to the lack of conventional resume experience. However, the skills and experiences gained during this time are invaluable and should be recognized. It’s crucial to embrace one’s worth and seek opportunities that resonate personally and professionally.