When I first became a stay-at-home mom, I was overwhelmed with joy and responsibility.
The joy of spending precious moments with your children is unparalleled, but let’s be honest, the desire to contribute financially to the household often lingers.
How could I contribute to our household income without sacrificing time with my children?
This question led me on a journey to discover various ways to make money from home.
In this post, I will be sharing what I’ve learned (and still learning) to help other moms find their own paths to financial independence while nurturing their children.
Whether you are looking to start an online business, find remote work, or monetize your hobbies, there’s something here for everyone.
Let’s dive in!
7 WAYS TO MAKE MONEY AS A STAY-AT-HOME MOM
1. IDENTIFYING YOUR SKILLS AND INTERESTS
The first step in making money as a stay-at-home mom is to reflect on your skills and interests.
What are you good at?
Think about your previous work experience, hobbies, and activities you enjoy.
Do you love writing? Are you a whiz with spreadsheets?
Maybe you have a thing for crafts or cooking.
Similarly, you might have experience in areas like graphic design, administrative assistant, customer service, or project management that can be translated into remote work.
Identifying your strengths and passions will not only make it easier to find work but also ensure you enjoy what you are doing.
Start by brainstorming and making a list of your skills and interests. This list will serve as your guide when exploring different opportunities.
Then, think about how you can turn these into marketable services.
For instance, if you have a background in marketing, you might find freelance opportunities in social media management. If you love baking, starting an online bakery could be a perfect fit.
Remember, your niche does not have to be something you have done professionally before – it could be a hobby you are passionate about or a new skill you are excited to learn.
However, finding a niche that aligns with your passions will make the journey much more enjoyable and sustainable.
2. ONLINE JOB OPPORTUNITIES
The internet has opened up a world of possibilities for stay-at-home moms.
Here are some of the best online job opportunities to consider:
Freelancing
Freelancing is an excellent way for stay-at-home moms to utilize their skills and earn money.
It allows you to work on projects that interest you and set your own schedule.
Platforms like Upwork and Fiverr connect freelancers with clients seeking various services such as writing, graphic design, and virtual assistance.
Writing and Editing: if you have a way with words, consider freelance writing or editing. Content is king online, and there is always a demand for quality writers.
Graphic Design: for those with a creative streak and knowledge of design software, freelance graphic design can be lucrative.
Virtual Assistance: virtual assistants handle administrative tasks like email management, scheduling, and customer service. This role is perfect if you are organized and detail-oriented.
How to get started
- Create a compelling profile showcasing your skills and experience.
- Start with small projects to build your portfolio and gain positive reviews.
- Gradually increase your rates as you gain more experience and positive feedback.
Remote Work
Remote work is another viable option, offering the stability of a traditional job but with the flexibility to work from home.
Many companies are now offering remote positions, which means you can work from home while being part of a team.
Websites like FlexJobs, We Work Remotely and Remote.co specialize in listing remote job opportunities.
Customer Service: many companies hire remote customer service representatives. These roles typically involve helping customers via phone, email, or chat.
Tech Support: If you have a background in IT, remote tech support roles are plentiful.
Project Management: Companies often look for remote project managers to oversee various projects, ensuring they stay on track and within budget.
Remote work can provide a steady income and often comes with benefits like health insurance and paid time off.
It is a great option if you are looking for a bit more security and consistency in your work-from-home journey.
Steps to secure a remote job
- Update your resume to highlight relevant skills and remote work capabilities.
- Apply to positions that align with your experience and interests.
- Prepare for virtual interviews by practicing common questions and setting up a professional home workspace.
3. STARTING AN ONLINE BUSINESS
If you’ve got an entrepreneurial spirit, starting an online business could be a perfect fit.
Here are some business ideas that have proven successful for stay-at-home moms:
E-commerce
Starting an online business might sound overwhelming, but it can be incredibly rewarding.
There are several ways to dive into e-commerce, from selling handmade goods to dropshipping.
Selling handmade goods: platforms like Etsy are perfect for selling handmade items.
Whether you make jewelry, home decor, or clothing, there is a market for unique, handcrafted products.
I’ve seen many stay-at-home moms turn their crafting hobbies into successful businesses, selling everything from handmade jewelry to custom home decor.
Dropshipping: with dropshipping, you sell products without holding inventory.
You set up an online store, and when a customer makes a purchase, the supplier ships the product directly to them. Shopify makes it easy to start a dropshipping business.
How to start
- Choose a niche and research your target market.
- Set up an online store using platforms like Etsy, Shopify, or WooCommerce.
- Market your products through social media and online advertising.
Print-on-Demand
Print-on-demand (POD) is a form of e-commerce where you design products, and the printing company handles the production and shipping.
This model is great for creating custom apparel, accessories, t-shirts, mugs, and phone cases.
How it works: you upload your designs to a POD platform like Printful or Teespring. When a customer orders an item, the platform prints and ships it for you.
Popular Platforms: Printful and Teespring are among the most popular POD platforms. They integrate with online stores, making it easy to manage your business.
This model eliminates the need for inventory and allows you to focus on creating unique designs.
Steps to begin
- Create unique designs or hire a graphic designer.
- Upload your designs to a print-on-demand platform.
- Promote your products through social media and your website.
4. UTILIZING SOCIAL MEDIA AND BLOGGING
Social media and blogging are powerful tools for building a personal brand and generating income.
Becoming an Influencer
Social media has opened a world of opportunities for stay-at-home moms to become influencers.
If you enjoy sharing your life, experiences, and passions online, becoming a social media influencer might be a great fit for you.
By sharing your story, interests, and expertise, you can build a following and monetize your content through sponsorships and ads.
Choosing a platform: decide whether Instagram, YouTube, or TikTok is the best fit for your content. Each platform has its strengths.
Instagram is great for photos and stories, YouTube for videos, and TikTok for short, engaging clips.
Building an audience: consistency is key. Post regularly, engage with your followers, and collaborate with other influencers to grow your audience.
Monetizing your content: once you have a significant following, you can start earning through sponsored posts, affiliate marketing, and ad revenue.
I’ve seen many moms successfully share their parenting journeys, fitness routines, and home organization tips, building a community and earning money along the way.
Brands are always looking for influencers to promote their products.
Blogging
Blogging is another powerful way to share your voice and make money from home. It allows you to share your knowledge and experiences while earning through various monetization strategies.
How to start a blog: choose a niche that you are passionate about and has an audience. Set up a website using platforms like WordPress (which I currently use), and start creating valuable content for your readers.
I chose personal finance and money matters as my niche because it was something I was passionate about and had firsthand experience with.
I know firsthand that blogging takes a lot of work, commitment, and patience—it can take more than 21 days before you start seeing a profit. However, if you’re passionate about writing and want to blog about topics that excite you, I highly recommend checking out Ling’s Treasure Map to Successful Blogging. This step-by-step guide was a game-changer for me. It helped me discover my niche, start my blog, launch it, and eventually make a profit. You can’t go wrong with this resource, trust me.
Monetization strategies: once your blog gains traction, you can earn through affiliate marketing (promoting products and earning a commission on sales), sponsored posts (brands pay you to write about their products), and ad revenue (placing ads on your site through networks like Google AdSense) and earn money based on clicks or impressions.
5. PROVIDING LOCAL SERVICES
While online opportunities are plentiful, do not overlook the potential of providing services in your local community.
Childcare and Babysitting
As a stay-at-home mom, we are already skilled in childcare. Offering babysitting services to local families can be a natural extension of your daily routine.
Getting started: start by offering your services to friends and neighbors.
Build a reputation for reliability and care, and soon you’ll have a steady stream of clients.
Reach out to your local community through word of mouth, social media, and neighborhood groups.
Setting rates and managing schedules: research local rates to set competitive prices.
Use a calendar or scheduling app to manage your time effectively.
Obtain any necessary certifications or licenses and create a welcoming space for children.
Pet Sitting and Dog Walking
If you love animals, pet sitting and dog walking can be a delightful way to earn extra income. This job offers flexibility, allowing you to work around your family’s schedule.
Many pet owners need reliable care for their pets while they’re at work or on vacation
Overview of services: Pet sitting involves taking care of pets while their owners are away.
Dog walking is a daily commitment to exercise clients’ dogs.
Marketing your services locally: use word of mouth, flyers, social media, community boards, and local pet shops to advertise your services.
Word of mouth is also incredibly powerful in this business.
Websites like Rover and Care.com can also help you connect with pet owners in your area.
6. TAKING ADVANTAGE OF ONLINE MARKETPLACES
Online marketplaces offer various ways to make money by selling items you no longer need or participating in market research.
Selling Used Items
Decluttering your home can turn into a profitable venture by selling used items online. Platforms like eBay, Facebook Marketplace and Poshmark make it easy to reach buyers.
Start by going through your home and identifying items you no longer need or use.
Platforms to sell on: eBay is great for a wide range of items, from clothes to electronics.
Facebook Marketplace allows you to sell locally, avoiding shipping hassles.
Tips for successful selling: take clear, high-quality photos of your items and write detailed honest descriptions.
Pricing competitively, willingness to negotiate and being responsive to inquiries can help you sell items quickly and efficiently.
Online Surveys and Market Research
While not a primary source of income, online surveys and market research can provide a bit of extra money. They are easy to do in your spare time, often while watching TV or waiting for appointments.
Legitimate survey sites: Swagbucks, Survey Junkie, and Vindale Research are popular sites that pay for you to share your opinions on various products and services.
Potential earnings and time investment: earnings vary, but you can expect to make a few dollars per survey. The key is to sign up for multiple sites to maximize opportunities.
Complete surveys during downtime, such as when the kids are napping, and over time, you’ll see your earnings add up. Redeem rewards for cash or gift cards.
7. TIPS FOR SUCCESS AND MANAGING WORK-LIFE BALANCE
Balancing work and family life is crucial for any stay-at-home mom. Here are some tips to help you succeed:
Time Management
Effective time management ensures you can fulfill both roles without burnout.
Creating a daily schedule: plan your day around your children’s needs. Allocate specific times for work, household chores, and family activities.
I find that early mornings and nap times are my most productive periods.
Prioritizing tasks and setting boundaries: list your tasks in order of importance, break tasks into manageable chunks and tackle them one at a time.
Set boundaries with your family during work hours to minimize interruptions.
Use tools like calendars and to-do lists to stay organized and prioritize your tasks.
Remember, it is okay to ask for help.
Whether it’s hiring a babysitter for a few hours a week or asking your partner to take on more household duties, finding ways to share the load can make a big difference.
Staying Motivated
Staying motivated can be challenging, especially when working from home.
Setting goals and finding support are essential to maintaining momentum.
Setting realistic goals: break your larger goals into smaller, manageable tasks. Celebrate your achievements no matter how small to stay motivated.
Finding a support network: join online communities of other work-from-home moms attend virtual networking events, and don’t be afraid to reach out for advice and encouragement.
Sharing experiences and tips can provide encouragement and new ideas.
Surround yourself with a supportive network of fellow moms who understand your challenges and can offer encouragement.
Finally, remember why you started this journey.
Whether it’s to contribute financially to your household, pursue your passions, or set a positive example for your children, keeping your “why” in mind can help you stay focused and motivated.
CONCLUSION ON HOW TO MAKE MONEY AS A STAY-AT-HOME MOM
Embarking on the journey to make money as a stay-at-home mom can be empowering and fulfilling.
By identifying your skills and interests, exploring online job opportunities, starting your own business, leveraging social media, providing local services, and utilizing online marketplaces, you can contribute financially to your household while still being present for your family.
The key is to find what works best for you and your family.
Remember, the journey may have its ups and downs, but with persistence and creativity, you can achieve your financial goals while enjoying precious moments with your children.
So take the first step today, explore the options that resonate with you, and embark on this exciting journey.
I hope you found this article helpful and insightful. Kindly share and follow me on Pinterest and LinkedIn for the latest posts.
ABOUT CHRISTY MICHAEL
I am passionate about finding creative ways to pay off debts, make more money, and save more money; and helping people achieve their financial goals and ultimately, financial freedom. My journey of overcoming consumer debts and achieving financial independence inspired me to start FinanceWit.org (with no knowledge or experience with blogs). FinanceWit is a personal finance and money matters blog, where I share a treasure trove of tips, tricks, and innovative strategies to fast-track your journey to debt freedom. Want to dive deeper into my story? Read more about me here.