I started freelance writing last month and so far,  it is one of the wisest things I have ever done since I became a mother.  There are many things I like about it but here are the top five reasons why:

It provides some brainworks – Although I got tons of unread books, sitting dusty in the shelves, it just doesn’t seem to make sense to push myself to “self-study”.   Working on something that has a deadline gives me that adrenaline rush that just makes me go! go!go!

It’s a fruitful pastime – I live in a totally different place with totally different people.  The nearest family I could call is four towns (45 minutes) away and I am only left with my baby and the nanny most days when my hubby is at work.  I don’t have friends to have good coffee and conversations with, neither an office to go to.   In times when my baby is playing with the nanny, I am left with some idle time in my hands.  Spending this working makes me feel that my time didn’t go to waste.  And the  fact that  I gain new knowledge each day is such a great bonus!

It gives me a sense of value — Do not be misled, being a stay-at-home mom is one heck of a job and it’s not something one can call easy or invaluable.  However, being a former career woman, not having a paying job can hit me quite hard at times.   More than wanting to buy some things for myself, I want to help financing our needs as a family and I can not do that just by being home and taking care of my child.  Now that I have a job (in its own sense), I feel like I am more valuable.  The pay is not high, but it’s a lot better than none at all.

It’s economical– You see, working from home does not require me to dress up, put make-up on, gas up (or pay for the fare) or eat out.  I will neither pass by any malls and other commercial places that may tempt me to spend.  What could be cheaper than that?

It’s comfortable and convenient– I can be on “work mode” in the comforts of my own house, any time I want, any spot I want.  I can also take a break  (even take a nap), play with my kid, eat in front of the computer,  slouch, turn the TV on,  put my feet up, and the best of it all is that I don’t have a screaming boss to deal with!

I know that it is best to look for a job that will pay me well.  A single-income family is not really ideal in any sense, especially if we are talking about teaching as a career.  However, in our situation, when our top priority is the well-being of our child and our family, to start simple and slow is the best way to go.   Since our little girl could barely walk on her own yet, it is best that I am around 24/7 and enjoy earning extra on the side whenever possible.  In fact, if I could find an opportunity that will just let me work and earn enough from home, I’d gladly grab that.

How about you?  What do you think of full-time mommies working from home?  Would you like your wife to be one?  Do you think it’s a good idea?