I'm a SAHM: The Beauty of a Side Hustle

I'm a SAHM: The Beauty of a Side Hustle

I don't know about you, but as a SAHM, I often find myself wishing that I had some way of quantifying my accomplishments. Contributing financially would feel pretty good, too. Don't get me wrong, changing diapers and doing dishes feels good when they're done, but they're never done. So I have a side hustle, and I feel like a better SAHM for it.

That's not to say that every SAHM wants more. Some women are totally content with the day-to-day duties of stay-at-home motherhood. That is awesome and in no way a problem! But for me, I see a lot of benefits in having a side hustle.

What's a Side Hustle?

For most people, a side hustle is something you do to make a little extra cash each month. Usually in the form of a flexible side-job, a side hustle can be anything you want it to be. If it lets you pursue a passion or find a new purpose or independence, then so much the better! Anyone can benefit from a side hustle, from full-time employees to stay-at-home mothers. The beauty of it is that it gives you a break from your day-in and day-out full-time gig (whether that's laundry and diapers or meetings and making copies).

Now, I know what you're thinking, but no, this is not another poorly disguised multi-level-marketing scheme. It's just me stating that my side hustle(s) allow me to be a happier stay-at-home parent in several ways.

How Does it Help SAHMs?

First, I feel like having a side gig of some sort gives me a break from the monotony. Every person experiences monotony no matter where they work. When looking for a side hustle, try to find something that's out of the ordinary of your day. This will help you get a mental break in a lot of ways.

Another reason to like the side hustle as a SAHM is that you can earn money from it! I know that stay-at-home parents contribute more than enough through their caring for and rearing of the children, but sometimes you just want to make some money so you don't feel so guilty spending it, you know? Whether the extra cash helps cover your family's basic needs, goes into a college fund, or even becomes your own personal "fun fund," it's money that you made, and that feels good. Besides, who couldn't benefit from some extra money each month, right?

But the main reason I think a side hustle is a good thing is because it gives me something else to think about other than the consistency of my child's poop. And at the end of the day, I feel a little more well-rounded and a little less like my life is blending into one giant groundhog day.

Choose What Works for You

I know that there's a very real guilt that accompanies moms working, especially in certain circles. But a side hustle can be anything you want it to be, and it doesn't have to take away from your time with kids! Here are some ideas to help you see my point:
  • Start a sewing class with tweens in your neighborhood
  • Teach piano at a reduced rate while the piano parent babysits
  • Turn your closet into an online boutique
  • Start an Etsy shop with paintings or other handmade wares
  • Give a summer sports class at the park for tots and toddlers
  • Create a book review website for the latest popular literature
  • Start a pop culture or other relevant podcast that interests you
These are just a couple ideas, but you get the gist. And anyway, the sky is the limit! If you have an idea or hobby that you'd like to pursue, start! Even if you don't make money at first, at least you're doing what you love and getting a break from the normalcy.

Whatever you choose, know that there's no shame or harm in having a side hustle or working from home. If it makes you a better happier mom, then pursue it!

Featured Image PC: @shayleihallingphoto
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