OK so here is the situation- I had planned to return to work after the birth of my first child and went out on maternity leave 2 weeks prior to his birth. But once he was born I couldn't bear the thought of leaving him and decided to stay home and quit my job.... until my boss called me today and offered me a very big promotion (he doesn't know yet that I am not planning to return) with a sizable raise. We could make it financially if I stayed home but would be on a super tight budget and would have to cut back A LOT (one car instead of two, super strict meal planning, no vacations, no extra stuff for the baby, etc)... the extra income would be a huge help and we would be able to maintain the lifestyle we are used to.... Please give me your thoughts....
2007-03-13 10:32:40 · 13 answers · asked by Jennifer A 2 in Pregnancy & Parenting ➔ Newborn & Baby
Living off of one income can be very hard. I know from experience. I think you need to do what will make you the happiest. If staying home is what you truly want, then do that. But, if you want to be able to spend money without worrying if you are going to be able to make the rent, utilities, etc, I would take the job. You will still have time to spend with your son and be able to work. For me, right now we are living off of one income so I can go back to school. My reasoning is, now that my daughter is very young I am trying to finish my college education, so in the future she can have everything she wants. If you guys cut back now, you may not be able to do the things you want, like maybe throw a big first birthday party, go on a nice family vacation, be able to celebrate things that you may want to do. Well that is how I see it. Perhaps you can negotiate part time work? Or, if unable to, do what you feel is best for everyone in the family. You, your kids, and your husband.
2007-03-13 10:39:36 · answer #1 · answered by Melanie P 3 · 1⤊ 1⤋
That's a very difficult decision to make, especially when you do have a choice. I HAD to work w/my 1st two kids, but I lost my job when I was pg 3rd time. I planned on getting another job, but it was hard, because I was 4 1/2 months pg. Then I found out I was having twins & I knew there was no way I could afford day care for all 4 (All 4yrs & younger). I always wanted to be with my kids, so now I am. Even though it is a struggle, it's very fulfilling. Sometimes I wished I could work part time to have a little time away, but just this last wk, my DH & I opened a restaurant on Fri & Sat only, so I can get out a little.( We can handle a babysitter for two nights a wk.) I had a hard time going back to work w/my 1st two, but after a couple of wks, it wasn't so bad. It made me appreciate my children more when I got home. Just don't let anyone else make you feel pressured to go either way. It is your decision to make. You need to feel comfortable with whatever you decide.
2007-03-13 10:55:20 · answer #2 · answered by mom-of-4 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
First of all Jen, there are many women that feel the exact way you do. As a matter of fact, I just answered another similar question. You are NOT alone. I, too, am a mother of 2 children and I worked in the corporate world for years before I realized that it wasn't the right fit for me. I wanted and needed more out of life and wanted something that I would love and allow me the time and financial freedom to spend quality time with my family and not have to worry about being gone 10 hours a day. Then, Arbonne entered my life and not only do I have more time but also the financial freedom to do the things that we've always wanted. You can check out my profile. There are some links including my website and an opportunity presentation for your viewing pleasure. :-) I'm happy to help you learn more if you're interested. Best of luck!
2007-03-13 18:15:17 · answer #3 · answered by J D 3 · 0⤊ 1⤋
There is no one better to care for your baby than you! Babies are really only babies for so short a time. That time also leaves a very big impression. If you are able to financially, I would stay home at least through the first year.
If financially it is not possible, then find someone who comes highly recommended and has only a few kids that they care for. Ideally a baby should be placed with someone that has only one other infant to attend to at max. It would be great to find someone who only has your child to care for since babies require a lot of handling to thrive.
Do the math and see if you can't afford a little more time at home with your new baby. It will be something you wont regret.
2007-03-13 11:10:08 · answer #4 · answered by Mom23 3 · 2⤊ 0⤋
You really need to weight out your pros and cons. Staying at home would be wonderful, but imagine the wonderful life that you could provide if you work also. Not saying that you wouldn't provide a good life if you stayed home, but like you said, no vacations and no extras. Extras are special and vacations are memories that ya'll can share forever. Being a working mother of 2 I know its hard. But your child will learn to be sociable if you decide about a day care, so its good for him. Maybe work part time a few days a week if working full time is hard on both you and your child.
Good Luck and Congrats on your new Bundle of Joy!
2007-03-13 11:00:17 · answer #5 · answered by mrs.new_major_07 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋
I personally stayed home with my first and my second has just came along but, I am going back to college right now. If you can afford daycare and still live comfortabley then go back to work. He will be in school soon and you will have misssed the opportunity
2007-03-13 10:38:28 · answer #6 · answered by cbkcwilliams 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It seems to me that you already knew what you wanted to do and this thing has now stirred everything up again.
I would go with your gut instinct....what were the reasons you wanted to stay at home in the first place? Are these reasons more important than the money you would get?
2007-03-13 10:41:34 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Your baby is only a baby once--let his most tender, impressionable years be one of love and support from his own family, not by being farmed out to caregivers. If you really need the lifestyle, try to find family members (Grandma's great) to watch him for you.
2007-03-13 10:36:34 · answer #8 · answered by mocelled2002 2 · 2⤊ 1⤋
baby's are expensive!!!!!!! remember you'll need diapers formula childcare services,not to mention that you have to save enough money for college and if you plan on having more children their college funds and health needs. so in other words money wont probably be tight it will be! very tight and how fun is no vacations,and no toys!
2007-03-13 10:43:02 · answer #9 · answered by Jane Doe 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Nothing in the world can ever replace all the special moments with your children.......those memories will never be yours if you aren't there!
They are worth every bit of sacrifice and heartache!
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2007-03-13 11:47:08 · answer #10 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 1⤋