The decision to transition from freelancing to a more stable employment situation is a journey many working parents can relate to. In this essay, Lauren Crosby Medlicott, a freelance journalist and social justice advocate, shares her experience of navigating the challenges of being a working mom, particularly during the summer months.
The Freelance Life: Flexibility and Inconsistency
For years, freelancing offered Medlicott the flexibility she needed as a single mom with three kids. It allowed her to work around her family's schedule and keep her résumé updated. However, the freelance market became increasingly competitive, and the struggle to find consistent work took its toll.
"I watched as publication after publication laid off staff, leading to increased competition in the freelance market. I was struggling to get work, struggling to cope with rejection, struggling with inconsistency."
Embracing Stability: The Move to Part-Time Employment
Medlicott's decision to take on two part-time jobs brought a sense of stability and consistency to her life. The steady paycheck provided a much-needed relief, especially during the summer months when expenses tend to rise for parents.
"Now I know every month, I've got a paycheck coming in—even in the summer months. That's a huge weight lifted."
Adjusting to a New Routine
The transition to part-time employment meant a whirlwind of adjustments for both Medlicott and her kids. The initial months were a blur of quick dinners, messy houses, and missed school events. But the real challenge emerged during the summer holidays.
In the UK, where Medlicott resides, kids are out of school for about six to seven weeks during the summer. This extended break presented a unique set of challenges for a working mom.
"When I was freelancing, I spent most of the summer freaking out about where my work would come from. Now, with a steady job, I can plan ahead and make arrangements for my kids."
Balancing Work and Parenting
Medlicott's new work schedule meant finding creative ways to keep her kids occupied while she worked. She signed them up for camps, arranged playdates with friends, and even invested in a gym membership for her eldest to give him some independence.
"I miss having fun with my kids. I'd love to take them to the beach or do art projects, but my work demands my full attention. So, I've had to rely on technology to keep them entertained."
The guilt that comes with balancing work and parenting is a familiar feeling for many working moms. Medlicott acknowledges the messiness of her current situation, with stacks of dishes and clothes everywhere, but she reminds herself that her kids are happy, safe, and loved.
"Parenting young children while working full-time is a mammoth task. I may not be doing it perfectly, but I'm doing it, and that's what matters."
A New Perspective on Summer
Medlicott's essay offers a refreshing perspective on the summer months. While many parents dread the long break from school, she finds solace in the stability her employment provides. The ability to plan ahead and make arrangements for her kids brings a sense of control and peace of mind.
"I'm grateful for the consistency my part-time jobs offer. It allows me to enjoy the summer months with my kids, even if it means sacrificing some of the leisurely activities we used to do when I was freelancing."
Conclusion
Medlicott's journey highlights the complexities of being a working mom. The transition from freelancing to part-time employment brought its own set of challenges, but it also offered a sense of stability and the ability to plan for the future. Her essay serves as a reminder that finding a work-life balance is an ongoing process, and sometimes, it's okay to let go of perfection and embrace the messiness of life.
