I really want to be a SAHM and leave my full time job. Any advice about anything??

Question

I am the main bread winner for our family but I really want to be a SAHM but I still plan to work at least 2 days a week so we can keep my uber-health insurance. I know it will obviously take sacrifice and such and it wont always be kisses and hugs, especially when he gets older. I just want to take a very active role in raising my child!

Any advice on how to do this? Especially financially? We have a mortgage payment, car loan, some credit card debt (about 2200.) and utilities. I was planning on bare minimum paying off the credit cards if at all possible before leaving and setting aside an emergency fund. Anything else?

What is something you wish someone would have told you before you became a SAHM?? What about ideas or things to do to be a WAHM?? Thanks for your advice!

Answer 1

I think that it sounds like you have a good plan. You know, I am in a similar situation. Well, not quite...I dont even have a baby yet, and Im not pregnant yet, but I want to be...very badly! I will graduate beauty school next spring, and really just want to get a part time job. But, people seem to be so negative about it.

But, here is what I think. I think that you need to do what is best for YOU. Things always seem to work out, and what is good for one person may not be good for another. It is your life, so live it how YOU want to, and raise your child how YOU want to.

I think that it would be smart to pay off the credit card debt, and also set aside a couple thousand dollars for an emergency fund. Also, buy any upcomming big spenders first....like, if you know your baby will need a walker soon...buy him one now. Or, if you don't have that many bigger sized clothes...start stocking up. Even buy a bigger car seat. That way you will bet set!!

It sounds like a good idea to also work maybe part time to keep some extra money coming in. Even if it is for a little while because it will be a hard adjustment!!

There are still things that you can do too to make extra money at home. You can always start your own small business selling stuff...like, if you are creative you can make business or greeting cards or something along those lines. You can do a home show business for Lia Sophia(it is only 150 to start)...so, you do have options!

Good luck to you!!

Answer 2

I've been a SAHM mom for just about 6 years.  And it is nice to know you can always be there for your child but it is a big sacrifice as far as the rest of life is concerned.  

Obviously the least amount of bills you have will make it easier.  You need to crunch the #'s and decide if this is really realistic.  Realistic to the point where your husband isn't going to feel burdened and stressed.

Having an emergency fund is a fantastic idea.  Make sure you are living within your means.  Be willing to be frugal.  Possibly join a yahoo group of other mothers like yourself to get ideas for meal planning and budgeting etc.

Money is the #1 topic of argument in homes and that can put a lot of stress on a relationship.  Either be willing to change your lifestyle or agree that if it becomes necessary you will go back to work full time or you will work while your husband is home.

Answer 3

I have no advice, but if you can afford it, go for it. It is the best thing you can do for your child.  

Answer 4

I fully support it, I think it is the best thing if you can swing it. You will have to get ready for the emotional changes of going from a business person to a mom in sweats with blarf in her hair. You need to decide what is more important: fancy dinners out or staying home. New wardrobe or staying home. I think you should do it for at least the first two years but to each their own.