Is your "dream job" one where you can spend time with your family and still earn money at the same time? Most regular 9 to 5 jobs do not offer that. The ticket to your dreams could happen by becoming a WAHM. 

 

Whoa...slow down...before setting off on your quest to become a WAHM, here is some useful information on what being a WAHM is all about.

 

WHAM?  What do these letters mean?  WAHM stands for "Work At Home Mom". 

 

More and more women have left the workplace to stay at home over the last 20 years or so.  A long time ago, it became apparent that men were the only ones being allowed to "Have there cake and eat it too".  Men could pursue a career and still come home to the family in the evening. Womens careers followed a different path. As well as working longer hours to receive the same pay and credibility as their male counterparts, they also had to deal with the housework and kids. All that was left for the kids after a long day at work and then doing the household chores, was a very worn out and tired mother.

 

That has since changed. Women today are proving that by being a work at home mom, they can still contribute to the family's financial situation and still nuture their familes. A network of support has been created both online and offline for any woman who wants to consider becoming a WAHM and help them meet thier needs.

 

How do you get started?

 

You will want to have an idea of the direction you will take before you talk to your family about the possibility of becoming a WAHM. Check out internet sites like justaddsweat.com, internetbasedmoms.com and wahmtalkradio.com. They offer insights into getting started as a WAHM and offer a network of opportunities for meeting other work at home moms.

 

If your income has been a large part of your familys monthly finances, then becoming a WAHM may cause your finances to take a hit. Make sure you have enough financially to cushion ;your bank account for at least the first six months of working at home. It takes time to establish your work at home business.

 

Opportunities

 

You will need to figure out your interests and skills.

 

You can find many business opportunities for work for someone else doing everything from audio transcription, writing articles, accounting, etc...the list goes on and on.  Be alert to the scams that are out there.  The legitimate companies looking for professionals will not ask for mony upfront .

 

Many WAHMs begin an online business by carving out thier own niche.  Are you good with crafting, sewing, jewerly making, etc...?  You could create a site to promote and sell your products.

 

Another great idea is a blog.  Post on your blog about your expertise in an area and develop a following.  Combine that with affiliate marketing or adsense to generate revenue.

 

Making it Work for You

 

The issue of balance between home and work comes along with being a WAHM.  Being a WAHM doesn't mean that you will not need help around the house or time away from your kids in order to work. 

 

Here's a few tips for creating a balance:

 

• Develop a set schedule for work and play on a weekly basis
• Discuss dividing up household chores between you, your spouse, and older kids
• Do pre-work such as fixing lunches, prepping breakfast, choosing clothing the night before
• Hire a babysitter once or twice a week
• Separate home office space inside the house

 

There are so many advantages to being a WAHM. Be sure you plan carefully and remain patient.  Also, support from your family can make all the difference when being a work at home mom.