Dear Stay-At-Home Mom,
Hello! I’m a working mom, and as I reflect on our roles, I realize just how much we have in common. However, the online narrative often seems to pit us against each other in a competition about who has it tougher.
Here’s what I believe: Motherhood is a collaborative journey. We need each other, and to truly support one another, we must first understand our different experiences.
Here are five things I want you to know about my life as a working mom:
- I Recognize Your Hard Work: I’m fully aware that your day is not filled with leisure. I know how hard you work because on weekends, I’m home with my child, and it’s exhausting — even with my partner’s help. I genuinely respect your ability to manage every aspect of your young children’s lives and the household. It’s a demanding role, and I admire you for it.
- Work Isn’t a Break for Me: My job is far from a leisurely escape. From clients to deadlines, my responsibilities keep me busy and on high alert. I often skip lunch in a bid to stay ahead, all while anxiously waiting for that dreaded call from daycare—“Your daughter is sick; you need to come pick her up.” I push myself to work diligently so I can rush to her side when needed.
- I Crave Your Friendship: I see your posts about playgroups and outings with other moms, and honestly, I envy those connections you foster. I long for that sense of community, but it’s harder to create as a working mom. So when you spot me at the playground in my work attire, just know I’m there to enjoy quality time with my child, not because I’m any less of a mom.
- I’m a Full-Time Mom, Too: Being a mother doesn’t pause when I step into my office. I am heavily involved in my daughter’s education and health care, planning activities whenever I can. My experience is similar to what you might encounter with school-age children, just adjusted for toddlers. Part of my motherhood includes providing for our family financially.
- I Didn’t Choose Work Over Motherhood: This misconception stings, especially since I don’t see anyone questioning my husband’s dedication. I work because our family relies on my income, and I’m passionate about my career. More importantly, I’m part of a generation striving for better maternity benefits, equal pay, and comprehensive family support. I want to pave the way for a brighter future for our daughters and sons alike.
Stay-at-home mom, let’s support one another instead of focusing on our differences. We can complement each other in countless ways. Together, we can advocate for a world where our children have more balanced options when it comes to work and family life.
Let’s unite for the sake of our daughters, so they have more opportunities than we did, and for our sons, so they receive the same understanding and support in navigating their responsibilities.
Let’s join forces. I promise to bring the good snacks! And, I know you have insights to share; I’m eager to listen.
Summary
This open letter from a working mom to stay-at-home moms emphasizes the commonalities between their experiences. It highlights the hard work and dedication both groups put into motherhood while advocating for unity and support. The letter encourages finding ways to complement each other for the benefit of future generations.