From SAHM to WAHM

I love to work.

I'm sure many people will not share my sentiment, but still many others will.  I have always found meaning in feeling useful and putting my skills to work.  My first job was at a restaurant answering phones at age 16. A number of minimum-wage jobs followed, and I eventually earned a BS and went on to become a teacher, a job I had wanted since the age of 6, and which was the most fulfilling aspect of my life second only to my family.

Once my second daughter was born, my husband and I decided that I was best suited as a stay-at-home mom, oft-referred to as a "SAHM".  I continued to sub occasionally, and I worked one day a week at my husband's business.  After my third daughter was born, I left the working world entirely.

I love being home for my children and feel quite blessed that I am able to do so--there are so many women that work out of necessity, and I admire them.  I know how difficult it is to strike a balance between home and career.  Despite all that, I had felt "ornery" for some time.  I needed to find something to do that would give me some usefulness and purpose outside of my home life.

I knew I didn't want to do demonstrations.  Although I like their products, Pampered Chef, Avon, PartyLite and the like have been done to death.  I had toyed with the idea of trying to make something that I could sell.  A friend of mine creates breathtaking jewelry that she designs on her own.  Another makes homemade candles and tarts that rival Yankee.  I always had those ideas on the back burner but didn't have the motivation to jump in and try anything.

Then an opportunity found me.  I have always been one to use natural products, and the environment has been a pet cause since my teens.  Back in May, a friend introduced me to a line of non-toxic, biodegradable, earth-friendly cleaners and nutrition products.  I was hooked, and after several months' use, I realized that this is my *thing*--I found something that I was passionate about and truly beleived in, and has a business opportunity.

I never in a million years thought I would do anything remotely associated with sales.  Yet after researching the business aspect of this company, I was convinced that this was a right fit for me.  Best of all, it complements my family life because I can work the hours I want, when I want, and not allow it to interfere with my home responsibilities.

So now I have transitioned from SAHM to WAHM (work-at-home mom).  I have created some amazing opportunities for myself and look forward to what the future has in store.  Home-based businesses can provide SAHMs (not to mention stay-at-home dads!) a great enhancement to their lives.  I am very excited to embark on this journey.