When my children were born, I took a leap into the world of self-employment. The idea of leaving my full-time job to work from home was thrilling. With my kids just over a year apart, commuting an hour each way was simply not feasible. After inadvertently starting a résumé writing business following the birth of my daughter, I grew it to a point where it made sense to consider this new path after my son arrived.
Just a week before I was set to return to my previous job, my son was hospitalized with bacterial pneumonia. It was in that hospital room, filled with fear and uncertainty, that I decided to embrace self-employment. Fortunately, my partner, Alex, has always been incredibly supportive, understanding that I possess a drive that fuels my ambitions.
The last decade has been a whirlwind. Managing taxes is a challenge, and the unpredictability of income can be overwhelming, even for someone like me who communicates for a living. I’ve faced sleepless nights and moments where I nearly reverted to the security of traditional employment during slow periods.
As a work-at-home mom, I experience a distinct form of mom guilt. I am present almost constantly; my office is right next to the laundry room, and my kids take the bus to school. Yet, despite my physical presence, I often miss significant moments. I’ve lost track of how many times I’ve dismissed a child’s request for attention while juggling deadlines or responding to client emails. I’ve shed tears over missed outings with them on their days off because work commitments don’t allow for time off—there’s no paid vacation when you’re self-employed.
Ironically, as a résumé writer and career coach, you’d think I would have it all figured out. While I appreciate the flexibility my lifestyle provides, I sometimes find myself envious of friends who remain in traditional jobs, enjoying the stability and benefits that come with long-term employment. They are inching closer to retirement, able to take vacations and set auto-responses for their time away.
Every working mother grapples with distractions. We are imperfectly perfect, teaching our children to navigate life while modeling our own coping mechanisms—often less than ideal. One of the hardest lessons I’ve had to learn is to practice gratitude, not just in writing but in genuinely appreciating the good amidst the chaos. I remind myself of my blessings when I feel like a failure, grateful for my health and for my children’s well-being, recognizing that these are not guaranteed.
Throughout my career, I’ve encountered numerous mothers from various walks of life—executives who prioritize careers over family events, single moms whose children step into adult roles, middle-aged women re-entering the workforce after divorce, and those who dedicated their lives to raising children only to find their skills undervalued. Behind every mom’s smile, there are untold stories of struggle and self-doubt.
I wish I could claim to have all the answers. However, from my own experiences and the countless mothers I’ve worked alongside and laughed with, it’s clear that we’re all searching for a better way. We often feel as though others possess knowledge we lack. Whether you’re the polished mom in heels or the one in yoga pants who forgets library books, know that you are doing your best and that’s enough.
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In summary, the journey of being a work-at-home mom is filled with both rewards and challenges. While it can seem like the perfect blend of work and family life, the reality often includes juggling responsibilities, feelings of guilt, and the pursuit of balance.