The idea of working as a single mom raises more questions than answers. But take heart, community resources abound and there is more help around than you might think!
Pregnancy may have surprised you, but parenting will amaze you. We want to help in any way we can. We will walk with you on this new journey as long as you need us. That’s why we are here.
Planning ahead, and preparing your heart and mind for a better future
Finding genuine happiness in new circumstances will take time and effort. Be patient with yourself. You will discover the joys of motherhood while watching your baby develop and mature. You can also explore your own goals, like furthering your education and a new career path. The path to learning about what brings you joy and what can provide a sustainable income, will also help you teach your child to find joy in the world. This will reward both of you.
Being a mother is never easy. Splitting time between work and home while caring for a little child is a big task. 
It doesn’t allow much time for anything else. We encourage you to listen to your own heart as you discover the best work-life balance for you. Be gentle with yourself during this transition. Creating a peaceful home life may take time. You can do it, and we are here to cheer you on!
As the primary provider, there is no shame in getting state financial support to help you on your path. Otherwise, how are you expected to survive? As you consider how your talents may benefit the world and give you greater income, be open to all the possibilities. It will take time to settle into your new role as mother and to begin to explore working opportunities.
Explore the unknown and expand your thinking
Be willing to stretch yourself and learn about parenting first. Check you local library to see what tools they have – many have computers you can use for personal and professional searches. If you struggle with reading, you can also check out audio books and DVDs. Online, TED talks and podcasts can be very helpful in finding methods of personal organization, parenting skills, planning and coping skills, financial education, emotional intelligence, making healthy meals and more. Mastering these areas will help you as a parent and give you new confidence. Here are a few popular titles that will give you practical knowledge:
- The Five-Minute Mom’s Club: 105 tips to make a moms life easier by Stephanie Vozza
- Raising An Organized Child: 5 steps to boost independence, ease frustration, and promote confidence by Damon Korb
- The Everything Parent’s Guide to Emotional Intelligence in Children: how to raise children who are caring, resilient, and emotionally strong by Korrel Kanoy
- A Mom’s Guide to Home Organization: simple solutions to control clutter, schedules, and stress by Debbie Lillard
- Start Fresh: Your Child’s Jump Start to Lifelong Healthy Eating by Florence Tyler
Perhaps you can ask a friend to join you and you can both read/listen to new material? Then you can compare ideas and inspiration.
Support at home, the foundation
Have you heard the saying, it takes a village to raise a child? Both mom and child need the loving care of a family, whether it’s your existing family or a new family you create. In our blog Help! I only ever talk to my toddler!, we suggest making new connections to enhance your support system. Other mothers, baby support groups, meet-ups for walking, church, or play dates at the park are a great way to make new friends.
Childcare is one of the most challenging areas for working moms
Getting a support system of family and friends is critical to creating a foundation of help for you and your little one. If you have family support, that is great! Networking with other working mothers, supporting each other, may be the answer as you navigate through this new path. Good friends can lift your spirits by helping you cope with stress. They can also celebrate your successes with you!
You’ve got this! Boosting your mom skills will definitely help you feel more prepared as you move toward your financial goals through work. You will feel better about the future. Do not despair.
Feel ready to take the next steps? Check out Practical tips and brave new steps to entering the workforce.
There will be times when you just need to talk to another woman. An Adult! We know about that. Being a mother takes longer than changing diapers. We’ve been there. If you ever feel like you need someone to talk to, we are here for you. Our local office in Hillsboro is located at 232 NE Lincoln Suite F, Hillsboro, OR 97124. Our number is (503) 648-6766, call anytime. We want to be a positive support to you in any way we can. Please always know, you are not alone!
