Realistic WAHM Earnings

[jillcrd0821]

I'm not sure if this is an appropriate conversation or not because nobody ever wants to talk about money, but I'm going to go there because I need to know what you ladies (and gents) think.

I've been a WAHM for more than 4 years as an Internet content writer. My monthly earnings vary greatly, and while I was earning $3,000 to $5,000 a month when I had just 1 child, now that I have 3, I probably average about $300 to $600 a month. I primarily work during nap times, sometimes at night.

My husband thinks I could earn more if I had my own business. And when I say my own business, I mean my own start-up diet-focused home business (I'm a registered dietitian). But I think this would be more time consuming and risky. What I love about my writing gig is that I work on my schedule when it's convenient for me and it's regular, reliable money.

My question is, for all your at-home business owners, how much time do you put in and when? Do you sacrifice time with family or sleep? And, if you're willing, can you share your earnings, even if it's just earnings per hour?

TIA

[luscioustravel]

Hi Tia,

I definitely agree with your husband, having your own business is the way to go, but it will be hard work and very time consuming, especially in the beginning. The rewards/payoffs make it worthwhile though. I recently started my own home based travel business and I'm literally glued to my computer screen all day promoting, organising and booking, but I'm sure once I get into a routine it will get easier and my time management will get better.

My earnings are commission based, so dependent on how much work I personally put in. I'm going to up my daughter's time at nursery to enable me to focus more during the day, because juggling time between work and entertaining her has become very difficult. I want to be able to have set times to work and set times to spend with her.

I hope this helps.

June

[mrohlfs]

Hi jillcrd0821, good question! Here's a question - have you ever considered combining your background with an existing company? I ask because then the start up would be done - name, branding, etc. A lot of times they have systems in place for you to use so you wouldn't have to start from scratch. There are companies out there that focus on nutrition, food, etc. Just a thought for you

[alli23]

I think starting your own business is the way to go. It will be more time consuming in the beginning but think of how different your families life will be in the end. I work my business in the pockets of my life. I schedule everything around my 3 kids and their activities when it is possible. I have learned to do calls and work when I'm at practices. Yes, I have missed some time with them, but I am always there for the important things. And I am way more available then if I had to work a 9-5 job. It's all about being organized and scheduling.

[jillcrd0821]

You've all given me a lot to think about. Time and fear are my biggest obstacles. Can any of you self-starters share some tips on the best way to get started?

[mrohlfs]

I think breaking down those obstacles will be helpful. How much time do you realistically have to commit/day? And, what are you afraid of? Once you figure out what you're afraid of, what happens if that does happen?

For me, I'm so passionate about the company's mission, products and changing lives that sharing is simple. When you are passionate, it oozes out of you and people want to be a part of it. I've started sharing my story with those around me, online, facebook, etc. and that has been how I started I think knowing realistically what you can do is a great place to start. Feel free to ask more questions, I know how hard and overwhelming it can be!

[malea]

I agree .. Having your own business is the way to go . It will take sacrifice in the beginning but you will have a lot more income potential .

[*In*2*Win*]

Food for thought:

Income potential also depends on the person - how much you put into your business often reflects what you take back from it.
(also, remember income claims cannot be stated here per posting rules)

As you are making money doing what you do... have you considered perhaps adding a second business to what you are doing so that you are still earning from biz #1 while you build biz #2?

Just a thought

Bonnie

[eagleeyeshops]

Certainly as a small business owner you have the largest potential, but it's hard to turn off from your business.

If you learn to grow a virtual business keeping it virtual you can however continue to have freedom of time and location.

Have you read the 4 hour work week?

[AKMillerTravel]

Have a business plan in place!! Owning a business is hard enough but when you have a well written plan in place and follow it as a guideline to get where you want to be - it will be that much more successful. Good luck!!