Fifteen years back, my wife and I decided to embark on a wild rollercoaster ride named parenthood. Add twins to the mix, and you have a three-ring circus. While both of us were chained to our full-time jobs, we had a brilliant plan: avoid daycare like the plague because we wanted to witness every little tantrum and milestone in real-time. Spoiler alert: I figured it was best to trade my full-time job for a part-time one while my wife ascended to the career heights of her choosing. Thus, my new title: Super Stay-at-Home Dad. And what a joyous circus it has been! Here I am, VIP front row, soaking in the joy and chaos.
And then the money struggles hit.
In hindsight, I probably should have abandoned all hope of earning an income and embraced my new identity as a full-time juggler of children, but alas, I enjoy a good paycheck. It provides a delightful distraction as the mayhem reaches critical levels. I started with part-time sales and transformed into a freelance writing maestro. Perfect for anyone wielding a computer and connected to WiFi. My life became a whirlwind adventure filled with moves from St. Louis to Europe, back to St. Louis, and now New Hampshire. Moving young children is about as relaxing as a root canal; one false move and the entire operation goes off the rails.
And then I decided to keep up my online gig.
Somehow, I survived this chaotic circus, and fast forward 15 years, I now have teenagers who magically create their own free time. My hours to indulge in writing have multiplied, and guess what? New, shiny opportunities are knocking at my door. I finally have enough mental space to consider them thoughtfully. Yes, the years were long, and the struggles real, but they have sharpened my wit and willpower.
Should other parents take a similar path?
Ah, the million-dollar question! Had I solely dedicated my time to ferrying the kids through life, I would likely be less mentally exhausted. On the flip side, having a “hobby” that occasionally bears fruit is like icing on a very chaotic cake. The essential takeaway during these years of chaos is to be present; however, your side gig will surely demand your attention right when the kids decide to unleash their latest chaos.
I can’t claim I was always the perfect “in-the-moment” parent, but I count my blessings for every minute I’ve spent with my kids, and for that I am eternally grateful. So for any parents contemplating plunging into the wonderful world of side hustles while handling the delightful mess of parenting, go ahead! Just remember, in the circus of life, the main act is your little ones, not your laptop.
