N
The Global Insight

What should I do with my life after being a stay-at-home mom?

Author

James Olson

Updated on April 05, 2026

When I Grow Up – Deciding What to Do After Being a Stay-at-Home Mom

  • Catch Your Breath. I spent the months before my final child started full-day school planning what I would do.
  • Don’t Choose by Default. While raising kids, I’ve worked a little.
  • Dream Big.
  • Prototype Your Decision.
  • Value Your Experience.

Is being a stay-at-home mom a career?

Many women take pride in being a stay-at-home mom, as they should. A recent study shows that they work the equivalent of 2.5 full-time jobs caring for their child. A survey sponsored by Welch’s noted that mothers work an average of 14 hours a day, or a 98-hour workweek.

What percent of moms are stay-at-home?

While 71% of moms do work outside of the home, 29% are staying home.

What is a good job for a mom returning to work?

Top jobs for moms returning to work

  1. Server. National average salary: $12.09 per hour.
  2. Teacher’s aide. National average salary: $12.06 per hour.
  3. Child care provider. National average salary: $11.56 per hour.
  4. Retail sales associate.
  5. Hairstylist.
  6. Library assistant.
  7. Office assistant.
  8. Medical records clerk.

Is it hard to get a job after being a stay at home mom?

If you’re a stay-at-home mom trying to re-enter the workforce, the odds aren’t in your favor. In fact, according to a recent study in Harvard Business Review, stay-at-home moms are half as likely to land a job interview in comparison to moms who get laid off.

What is the correct term for stay at home mom?

The basic definition of a stay-at-home mom (SAHM) is someone who stays home to raise her children and manage her household. She may have one child or several children, and they can range in ages from newborn all the way up to teenagers in high school.

How long have I been a stay at home mom?

I Was A Stay-At-Home Mom For 22 Years. I Don’t Need A ‘Second Act’ To Feel Fulfilled. What if now that my kids are grown and living their own lives and I’m over 50, my mission is accomplished and I’m just retired? Judy Mollen Walters with her daughters, Rebecca (left), then age 4, and Lauren (center), then age 11 months.

Is it a luxury to be a stay at home mom?

In many ways, being a stay-at-home mom ― at least for me ― was and is a luxury that so many other parents will never know. And I also certainly don’t mean to bash moms who work outside of the home.

How to stand up to your mother when you’re 42?

The purpose of the list is to make note of the battles that are worth fighting so you can let the unimportant ones slide. If your mother crosses the line and will not relent, make it clear that while you appreciate her advice, you’re an adult and are perfectly capable of handling the situation on your own.

How old is your mother when you live at home?

[…] I am 36 years old and am out of a job and am living at home.My relationship with my mother has always been a little contentious.She has reverted back to treating me like a child.I’m having trouble setting limits.I’m a lot less confident living at home and feel like a kid.Does anyone have any good advice?