May 7, 2010
Finding Your Mentor
Finding Your Mentor By Cheryl Gochnauer In high school, it could have been the coach who believed in your abilities.In college, a professor who challenged you to think beyond ordinary logic.On the job, the boss who took you under her wing, then taught you to soar inthe business world. Mentors appear throughout the seasons of our lives. It's a wise woman whotakes advantage of their wisdom. As you consider becoming a stay-at-homemom, talk to women who are already there. Gather with moms your own age, but also interview older mothers whosechildren are grown. They've seen it all, from budgeting to Band-aids, andhave great insight on the stay-at-home mom's life. Most helpful is the mom who's presently in the thick of it, but who's beenenjoying her at-home role a few years. You'll get firsthand, up-to-dateinfo on handling the stresses and joys of this precious profession fromsomeone who has not only been there, done that, but is doing it still. Be direct; ask the tough questions. What's it really like, living on areduced income? Does your husband respect you as he did when you wereworking outside the home? How do you keep your foot in the door at work, incase you want to come back after the kids are older? Even if you believe the worst day at home has got to beat the best day atthe office, find out how she handles that inevitable tough session. What DOyou do all day? Will 24 hours a stretch, week upon week with a toddler turnyour mind to mush? More than likely, what you hear from moms who have gone before will make youeven more anxious to join them. I've tried it both ways, and this morerelaxed, more focused lifestyle has done wonders for me and my family.Although it is definitely not for everyone, the at-home lifestyle definitelyIS for me. I invite anyone else who's interested to come check it out. But be smart.Do your homework. Find your mentor, and lay a solid foundation before youquit your job. Then if you choose to become a stay-at-home mom, you can doso confidently and fearlessly, knowing it is the right move for you. (Comments? E-mail , Cheryl@homebodies.org or visit her website at www.homebodies.org , where you can sign up for her free weekly e-zine!) Permission granted for use on DrLaura.com

Posted by Staff at 1:56 AM