You may think that you already know the answer to this question. You might even think that you are trapped and have no choices. I hope that looking through this article will show you that there are choices out there that are available for most people.
So, you're pregnant. You're expecting a baby and you don't know what you are going to do after the baby is born. Will you be a mom who doesn't have outside employment (a stay-at-home mom (SAHM)) or will you work outside the home or will you work inside the home in addition to your home duties? There isn't an easy answer to this question, but here are some of the things you need to consider:
- Where is your heart?
One of the easiest things may be trying to figure out where your heart lies on this topic. Did you always dream of being a stay-at-home mom or can you not imagine the thought of staying home all day? Neither is wrong, but where there is a will there's a way. - Finances
Sit down and do a true cost analysis about what it would mean to lose your income. Also factor in how much it would cost you to work. Figure up baby care, insurance, car maintenance or transportation, clothing, lunches, etc. Sometimes when you really do the math, you are surprised at how much it costs to work. - Alternatives
Sometimes you know you want a parent home with the kids, be it for a predetermined amount of time or not. It doesn't always have to be mom. There are a growing number of stay-at-home dads (SAHD) around. There are also alternatives to working situations, like telecommunting or starting your own home business.
When it comes to making the tough decisions remember only you and your partner can decide what will work for your family. You don't need to worry about what the neighbors or in-laws say - do what works for you. Give yourself a period of time to try out your new life. If things aren't working agree to make changes until everyone is happy.
