More and more women are choosing to become stay-at-home moms, and there are many surprising reasons behind it.
In this economy, it is surprising that women choose to be SAHMs, but it might be a wise decision if you follow several tips and tricks that will save you money! How, you may ask?
I know it sounds impossible, but stay with me and read about all the benefits of becoming a SAHM and how you can enjoy it while not feeling guilty.
How To Afford Being A SAHM
Whether you want to spend more time with your children or your partner makes enough, choosing to be a SAHM is not always easy. There are several factors you have to consider when becoming one, such as
- budgets,
- time off,
- emergency funds, etc.
So here are several steps you should take if you are thinking about becoming a happy stay-at-home mom who spends time with her children and takes care of the house.
1. Create A Budget
This is one of the most important parts of deciding how you will manage money once you rely mostly on your partner.
Talk openly and calculate how much you will need for each activity, thing, utility, etc.
It is wise to always have the same amount ready for specific things and to know that you need it on a monthly basis.
If your partner can afford this, then you are all set!
2. Clearly State Responsibilities
For you to be happy and productive, you will have to clearly determine who does what. If you are a SAHM it does not mean that you are the sole person responsible for housework.
Your partner, older children, or even a maid will be the ones who help you keep everything together.
Of course, you will probably be more responsible, but there are things you should not do alone and you definitely cannot do it all by yourself!
Communication is important, so try to openly discuss all of it.
3. By Saving Money You Are Making Money
When we do not earn money, it may seem like we are spending too much.
But if you think about it more closely, we are not spending money on things that we usually would if we were working.
- For example, you will no longer have to pay for babysitters or daycare. That will save you a lot of money on a monthly level.
- You will no longer have to order food at work or pay for takeaway when you want dinner since all your meals will be mostly home-cooked.
- You will save money on gas as well since you will no longer have to travel to work. All of this adds up to a large sum that you will no longer be spending. Think of this as another advantage of being a SAHM.
4. Do Not Buy Things You Do Not Need
We often find ourselves buying things we do not really need. I am not saying you should not buy things you like, but try to minimize expenses as much as you can.
There is no need to buy another black bag if you already have five. This will help you manage your monthly budget much better and you will be smarter with money.
5. Save On Everyday Activities And Fun
It is also a great option if you can save on everyday activities. For example, instead of paying for a gym membership, you can go for a morning run while your kids are sleeping.
Also, if there is a birthday party coming up, you do not need to rent a big venue and order the most expensive cake.
Going to a local playground, having the party in your own garden, or organizing a picnic may be a much better idea.
Of course, if your partner can afford these things, it is fine, but being a stay-at-home mom on a budget is all about being smart and resourceful.
6. Use Your Skills To Earn Money
If you choose to be a SAHM, there is no reason for you to never use your skills again.
It is a great advantage that we can use the Internet and sell our stuff, classes, or projects to others.
Some moms make jewelry and sell it online while their kids are asleep. Some moms teach specific classes late at night and earn a lot of money. Also, you can become a blogger or a writer – it all depends on your skills.
7. Coupons And Sales
It is always wise to use coupons and shop during sales because it may save you a lot of money for things that are needed.
Try to always be aware of sales days when shopping because children’s clothes can be very expensive.
This way, they will get the same quality for a lower price. It is a win-win!
8. Always Have An Emergency Fund
Having an emergency fund is a must. You never know what may happen to your partner or you so it is crucial that you communicate about this.
You may talk to your partner about putting away a certain amount of money each month to this fund.
This will make you feel safe and you will be much more relaxed and happy.
Also, you never know when your children might need it, so try to regularly add money that you save on other things to it.
9. Find Other SAHMs
When we change things about our lives, it is difficult to find support and be heard. All of your friends may continue working and they may not understand how you feel.
Having someone to talk to who is also in the same position is priceless, so try to find other SAHMs who will hep you with advice.
Also, this will make you much happier and you will feel better when you have some alone time with them.
Remember, it all takes some getting used to, but in the end, you will spend more quality time with your children, you will be healthier, and happier. And that is priceless!