Some people believe being a stay-at-home mom (SAHM) is the toughest job on the planet, while others picture it as lounging on the couch all day, munching on chips while the kids run wild. The reality of being a stay-at-home mom is fraught with debate, with varying opinions on whether it’s a dream scenario or simply a case of wanting what others have. It’s no surprise, then, that the SAHMs in our confessional have conflicting feelings about their roles.
One thing seems clear: being a stay-at-home mom would be significantly easier without the “mom” aspect. While the idea of staying home sounds appealing, it is far from the endless vacation many non-SAHPs imagine. The amount of “free time” in a SAHM’s day is often vastly overestimated.
Confessionals from Stay-at-Home Moms
Confessional #25768400
“I miss the days when I was working, where no one expected me to juggle a million things. As a SAHM, my partner thinks I have endless time to cater to everyone’s needs.”
Confessional #25755496
“I used to think SAHMs should keep everything spotless and have dinner ready, since my partner was working eight hours a day. Joke’s on me—I’ve been a SAHM for four years now, and I totally underestimated the kids.”
Confessional #25765398
“It’s amusing when people who have never cared for kids without screens tell me I should take on more. If you’re not paying my bills, maybe keep your opinions to yourself.”
Keeping a household running, especially with kids in the mix, takes a monumental amount of behind-the-scenes effort. It’s always rewarding when someone else finally experiences the daily grind we face.
Confessional #25767926
“I recently started working nights on weekends and I love it. It’s hilarious getting texts from those who think watching kids is easy. Pfffffft, they have no idea!”
Many still believe that since SAHMs don’t earn a paycheck or clock in, their work is somehow less valid.
Confessional #1724725
“I wish my partner would understand that being a stay-at-home mom is hard work too.”
Confessional #1475099
“My spouse often says he wishes he had my ‘job.’ Fine, let’s switch roles! Please!”
Confessional #1344189
“I love being a SAHM, but I hate when people say, ‘Oh, so you don’t have a job.’”
In reality, anyone who has been a SAHM knows it’s a demanding job with no sick days, no breaks, and an array of responsibilities. A 2019 study by Salary.com estimated that if stay-at-home moms were compensated for their work, they would earn an impressive $178,201 annually. So, to the naysayers—think again.
Confessional #25760581
“I’m proud to be a SAHM. I work hard, support my family and community, honor my partner, and engage fully in my kids’ lives. I also respect working moms wholeheartedly.”
Although the constant demands of being a SAHM can be exhausting, many appreciate the flexibility it brings and enjoy the perks of this lifestyle.
Confessional #1603774
“I genuinely love being a SAHM, but I pretend to complain to fit in with other moms.”
Confessional #25752381
“The only thing I miss about working outside the home is a guaranteed lunch break and the chance to pee alone.”
Confessional #1625801
“I adore being a SAHM. As long as the kids are settled, I can do what I want. My partner thinks I’m hard at work, but right now I’m just lounging on the couch watching TV.”
Confessional #25764866
“As an introvert, I truly enjoy my SAHM role.”
Confessional #1512727
“I LOVE being a stay-at-home mom. To my friend who called me useless… you can take a hike!”
Confessional #1546606
“I love being a SAHM—ice cream and jelly for breakfast? Count me in!”
Confessional #1689346
“I absolutely love being a stay-at-home mom, organizing toys and cleaning. I know I’m supposed to pretend it’s tough, but I dislike adult interactions, so I have no desire for a job!”
However, despite the positives, many SAHMs face common struggles like disillusionment, loneliness, and a persistent feeling of lacking purpose. The emotional toll can often be the hardest aspect to bear.
Confessional #25766120
“I can’t remember what I thought being a SAHM would be like, but this isn’t it.”
Confessional #1769529
“Sometimes, I go days without showering. My daughter once yelled, ‘Oh Mom, did you fart?’ Nope, just my breath. Stay-at-home mom = no purpose in life.”
Confessional #25760630
“I feel like a failure. Being a SAHM should be rewarding, but it often feels trivial and unimportant.”
Confessional #1527590
“I can’t stand being a stay-at-home mom. I adore my kids, but I’m tired of being alone with them all day. I miss adult conversation and feel stuck in a cycle of sweatpants and monotony.”
Confessional #25768284
“I’m not good at being a SAHM. I never wanted this role, and it feels like I don’t contribute anything meaningful.”
Confessional #1491318
“All I’ve ever wanted was to be a stay-at-home mom. Now that I am, I hate it. It’s driving me up the wall.”
Like any job, being a stay-at-home mom has its highs and lows. It’s essential to remember that, while it can feel isolating, we are part of a vast community of SAHMs who understand the daily challenges—whether it’s changing diapers, doing laundry, or managing screen time.
Confessional #25755555
“When I hear about other SAHMs having meltdowns, it makes me feel better. The cycle of being a SAHM—doing well, feeling lonely, and inadequate—is exhausting. I’m glad I’m not alone.”
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Summary
Being a stay-at-home mom is a challenging yet rewarding role filled with complexities. While some may romanticize it, the reality often involves juggling responsibilities, feeling isolated, and questioning one’s purpose. Yet, amidst the struggles, there are moments of joy and community that many SAHMs cherish.