Stay at home mum vs Working mum

Let's call a truce and agree either choice is damn hard.



Yet again, the debate of stay at home parent vs. working parent has reared its ugly head.

First, let's stop and recognise that everyone is in a different situation.


I have friends that fit into all of the above situations. I believe, that regardless of your choice or situation, we as a society need to take a step back and recognise that we are all doing the best job we can.

Being a parent is hard. It's the hardest role I have ever had. Before children, I worked in a high pressure, very time critical communications role. Compared to this, I thought being at home with my baby would be a breeze, but let me tell you - it's not.

There are so many words you can use to describe being a parent - rewarding, lovely, challenging, frustrating and tiring just to name a few.

However, when you see your child politely ask for a drink in public, show compassion for another child that is upset/hurt or when they run into your arms whispering the words 'I love you mummy', it makes it all worth it.



If you are a stay at home parent, you would know all to well that it is a 24/7 on-call role. We all know there are no breaks, no holidays, no pay, no sick leave and certainly no clock off time.

In fact, prior to the birth of my 2nd child, I went back to work part-time and even though I was at work, it felt like a break and I that I was finally getting some 'me' time. I know it sounds strange, that I went to work to have some time out. Again, this was my experience and certainly not the way all parents view their work commitments.

Having said that, it is no less a 24/7 role for parents who need or choose to work. I really admire parents who work full-time and back-up a sleepless night with a full day in the office. I take my hat off to you, I don't know how you do it.

We are all trying to find the perfect work/life balance for our individual families. So, please, I beg of you, stop judging others for their choices or circumstances and just give them a pat on the back for a job well done.



#any_age
#parenting
#family
#motherhood
#ups_and_downs

%parent101