Hey mama, I see you. I see the way you pour your heart into your family, the way you juggle snack requests, diaper changes, and bedtime stories while secretly dreaming of something more. I see the part of you that longs to use your talents, to feel accomplished outside of motherhood, and maybe even contribute to the family finances without sacrificing those precious moments with your little ones. I’ve been there too—torn between the love I have for my children and the quiet whisper in my heart that says, “You were made for more.”
That’s why I wrote this guide. Not as an expert, but as a fellow mom who’s walked this path, stumbled through the challenges, and found a way to make freelancing work while still being present for my kids. This isn’t just about making money (though that’s a wonderful perk!). It’s about reclaiming a piece of yourself, finding balance, and showing your children that it’s possible to chase your dreams—even when life feels overwhelmingly full.
Let’s be real for a moment: freelancing as a stay-at-home mom isn’t always easy. There will be days when your toddler decides to “help” by pressing all the keys on your laptop while you’re on a client call. There will be moments when you feel like you’re failing at both motherhood and your career. But there will also be moments of triumph—like when you land your first client, or when you realize you’ve created a schedule that allows you to be there for your kids and pursue your passions.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to start freelancing as a stay-at-home mom. We’ll talk about how to identify your skills (yes, you have them, even if you haven’t used them in a while!), how to find clients who value your work, and how to set boundaries so you don’t burn out. I’ll share tips on managing your time when it feels like there’s never enough of it, and how to handle the guilt that sometimes comes with carving out space for yourself.
But more than that, this guide is a reminder that you are capable of incredible things. You are already a multitasking superhero—managing a household, raising tiny humans, and keeping it all together (even when it feels like it’s falling apart). Freelancing is just another way to flex those superpowers. It’s a chance to show yourself—and your kids—that you can create a life that’s both fulfilling and flexible.
So, whether you’re dreaming of writing, designing, consulting, or starting your own online business, this guide is here to help you take that first step. It’s not about perfection; it’s about progress. It’s about finding a way to honor your dreams while still being the amazing mom you already are.
You don’t have to choose between your family and your ambitions. You can have both. And I’m here to cheer you on every step of the way. Let’s do this, mama. Your dreams are worth it!
Why Freelancing is Perfect for Stay-at-Home Moms
Freelancing offers the flexibility to work on your own terms. You can choose your hours, set your rates, and work from the comfort of your home (or the sidelines of a soccer game). It’s a way to use your skills, whether you’re a writer, designer, virtual assistant, or social media whiz, without sacrificing the time you spend with your kids.
Plus, freelancing allows you to grow at your own pace. You can start small—maybe just a few hours a week—and scale up as your kids grow or your schedule allows. It’s not about adding more stress to your life; it’s about creating opportunities that fit your life.
Step 1: Identify Your Skills and Passions
The first step to freelancing is figuring out what you’re good at—and what you enjoy doing. Think about your past work experience, hobbies, or even the skills you’ve developed as a mom. Are you a great organizer? Consider virtual assisting. Do you love writing? Content creation or copywriting might be your calling. Are you creative? Graphic design or crafting could be your niche.
Don’t sell yourself short, mama. You have valuable skills, even if they feel “ordinary” to you. The key is to find something that excites you and aligns with your strengths.
Step 2: Set Realistic Goals
Freelancing as a stay-at-home mom isn’t about working 40 hours a week or becoming an overnight success. It’s about finding a balance that works for you. Start by setting small, achievable goals. Maybe it’s earning an extra $200 a month or landing your first client. Celebrate every win, no matter how small.
Remember, your family comes first. Be honest with yourself about how much time and energy you can realistically dedicate to freelancing. It’s okay to start slow and grow over time.
Step 3: Create a Flexible Schedule
One of the biggest challenges of freelancing as a mom is finding time to work. The key is to be intentional with your time. Here are a few tips:
Work during naps or quiet time: Even 30 minutes a day can add up.
Wake up early or stay up late: If your kids are early risers, consider working after they go to bed.
Use weekends wisely: If your partner or family can help with the kids, carve out a few hours on weekends to focus on your freelancing.
It’s also important to communicate with your family. Let them know when you need uninterrupted time to work, and don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Step 4: Find Clients and Build Your Portfolio
Getting started can feel overwhelming, but there are plenty of ways to find clients:
Freelance platforms: Websites like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer are great for beginners.
Social media: Use platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook, or Instagram to showcase your skills and connect with potential clients.
Networking: Tell friends, family, and your community what you’re doing. You never know who might need your services.
If you’re just starting out, consider offering your services at a discounted rate or even for free to build your portfolio. Once you have a few projects under your belt, you can start charging what you’re worth.
Step 5: Set Boundaries and Avoid Burnout
As moms, we’re used to putting everyone else first. But freelancing requires you to set boundaries—both with your clients and your family. Here’s how:
Set clear working hours: Let clients know when you’re available and stick to those times.
Learn to say no: It’s okay to turn down projects that don’t align with your goals or schedule.
Take breaks: Freelancing can be isolating, so make time for self-care and connection with others.
Remember, you’re not just a freelancer—you’re a mom, a partner, and a person with needs. Don’t forget to take care of yourself along the way.
Step 6: Celebrate Your Wins
Freelancing as a stay-at-home mom is a journey, and every step forward is worth celebrating. Landed your first client? Celebrate! Finished a project on time? Celebrate! Managed to work while your toddler napped without waking them up? Definitely celebrate!
These small victories are proof that you’re capable of achieving your dreams, even in the midst of motherhood.
Final Thoughts: You’ve Got This, Mama
Freelancing as a stay-at-home mom isn’t always easy, but it’s worth it. It’s a chance to rediscover your passions, contribute to your family, and show your kids that it’s possible to chase your dreams—no matter how busy life gets.
So take that first step. Believe in yourself. And remember, you’re not alone. There’s a whole community of moms out there cheering you on.
Your dreams are worth it. Your time is worth it. You are worth it.
Now go out there and show the world what you’re made of, mama. You’ve got this!