Embarking on the journey of staying at home with my newborn was a transformative experience, revealing the need for a fresh perspective on how I earned a living. Once tethered to the draining routine of a 9-5 job, the realization struck during my maternity leave that there had to be a better way. That daily grind, where I rose before the sun, toiled away for someone else, and returned home utterly exhausted, only seemed normal because I allowed it to become my norm.
The intention was to resume the corporate grind after my 12-week maternity leave, but the arrival of my baby girl, Nova, altered my plans. The question lingered: why should I leave her with someone else while working a job that didn’t bring me complete joy? The desire to savor precious moments with my newborn propelled me into uncharted territory.
Not returning to my old job meant swift moves were in order. Armed with a laptop, my online exploration during Nova’s naptimes led me to seek at-home positions that didn’t demand constant phone engagement. Pinterest became my treasure trove of inspiration.
An at-home opportunity emerged, starting with 5 hours a week of admin work and evolving into a salaried position. The initial fear of financial instability was real—bills, rent, utilities, car insurance, phone bills, groceries, two dogs, and a newborn. However, creativity became my ally, and it can be yours too. Consider what you love doing and how you can turn those passions into profits.
1. Reading:
Transform your love for romance novels into a money-making hustle. Proofreading can earn you up to $45 an hour. Platforms like Upwork connect freelancers with writing and proofreading assignments.
2. Journaling:
Freelance writing opportunities abound on Upwork. Alternatively, create a blog, but be prepared for the hard work it entails. Building a successful blog involves more than a few simple steps, but the payoff can be substantial through ad revenue and affiliate programs.
3. Arts & Crafts:
Turn your artistic talents into a business. Whether it’s creating jewelry or party favors, platforms like Etsy provide a marketplace for your crafts. Consider renting a local flea market booth or selling your creations online.
4. Shopping:
Become a Mystery Shopper and get paid to shop. While this might only be for some, other legitimate shopping programs exist. Explore opportunities through newsletters catering to work-from-home moms.
5. Drawing:
Platforms like Etsy or Fiverr can help you monetize your art. Get paid for your creative masterpieces by offering your services as a designer.
6. Photography:
Monetize your photo collection through apps like Shutterstock, Etsy, Adobe Stock, Alamy, and SmugMug.
7. Dancing:
Start a small Zumba class in your neighborhood and charge a fee. You can even host an online Zumba or yoga class, tapping into platforms like Facebook or Instagram to connect with potential customers. Moms love Zumba, and dancing transcends mere exercise; it’s therapeutic
8. Cooking/Baking:
Sell your culinary creations at local events. Embrace your love for cooking or baking as a potential source of income.
9. Traveling:
Capture beautiful moments during family vacations and sell your photos through various apps or websites mentioned earlier.
10. Exercise:
Capitalizing on the health wave, offer partner exercise sessions or training. Advertise your services locally and charge a reasonable fee.
For Remote Work Ideas check out my Pinterest Board: “Work From Home Mom” HERE.
Making money can stem from the things you love. Reconnect with your passions, embrace what makes you feel good, and find a way to turn that into a fulfilling and profitable venture. The possibilities are endless—just follow your heart and your entrepreneurial spirit.
