Scrubs and Snuggles

As a mom of a toddler, I’ve often been asked why I continue to work full-time when I could reduce my hours, save on nursery costs, and spend more time with my son. While the idea of having more time at home is appealing, working full-time is a decision I’ve made not just for financial reasons, but for a number of personal and professional benefits.

Being a working mom is challenging, but I believe that it allows me to give my son the kind of life he deserves. I want to be able to provide him with a comfortable upbringing, filled with opportunities that will enrich his future. From his education to the experiences we can share as a family, having a full-time job gives me the financial means to offer him a life filled with possibilities.

Working full-time also empowers me as an individual. It ensures that I am able to take care of myself, by myself. I value the independence that comes from earning my own income and being in control of my financial well-being. It’s important to me that I contribute to our household, not only for my son’s benefit, but also for my own sense of accomplishment.

Beyond the financial aspect, having a full-time job gives me a strong sense of purpose. Being part of a professional environment allows me to challenge myself, set goals, and stay connected to my career ambitions. It’s easy to lose a sense of identity when the demands of motherhood take center stage, but working helps me maintain a balance between my personal and professional self.

Social interaction is another big reason I’ve continued to work full-time. As much as I love spending time with my family, having a career keeps me engaged with colleagues, fosters friendships, and helps me stay connected to the world outside of parenting. Being part of a professional community brings its own fulfillment and combats the isolation that can sometimes come with motherhood.

Professionally, working full-time has also opened doors to opportunities that might not have been available had I chosen to work part-time. These opportunities not only benefit my career but also provide long-term advantages for my family’s financial stability. I want to ensure that I’m continuing to grow and develop, both for my own satisfaction and to be a good role model for my son.

That being said, I do see the value in finding a better balance between work and family life. Going forward, I’m seriously considering working more flexibly—perhaps a day or two working from home and the rest in the office. This would allow me to spend more time with my son without sacrificing the career that I love. My husband is also working full-time to provide for us, and we are both focused on saving for our son’s future. As parents, we’re both committed to creating a stable and secure life for our family.

At the end of the day, every family is different, and what works for me may not work for others. The decision to work full-time, part-time, or stay at home is a deeply personal one, shaped by individual goals, values, and circumstances. For now, full-time work feels right for me, but I’m open to adapting and finding a better balance as our family continues to grow and evolve.

What about you? If you’re a working parent, how do you balance work and family life? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments. Let’s share our experiences and support each other in finding the right balance!