An Alternative to a Side Hustle
In today’s society, being a stay-at-home mom often comes with an overwhelming checklist of tasks—taking kids to activities, researching homeschool curricula, cleaning the house, and more. On top of all this, many of us feel pressured to take on a side hustle to contribute financially. However, instead of stretching ourselves too thin, we can focus on budgeting effectively and embracing contentment with our current situation.
Budgeting Tips as a Homemaker
Simplify by Reducing Social Media Use
One of the easiest ways to reduce spending is to cut down on social media. Scrolling through images of perfect homes, picture-perfect moms, and the newest teaching tools can make you feel like you’re falling short. But you don’t need a brand-new kitchen if yours is functional, and you don’t need a brand-new curriculum if what you have works. Consistency is key in homeschooling, not keeping up with the latest trends.
I’ve fallen into this trap myself—feeling like I need to buy or do something because I saw it online. But simplifying and staying focused on what truly matters helps combat that sense of inadequacy.
Thrifting and Facebook ” Buy Nothing” Groups
Thrifting is a great way to save money. There’s no shame in buying secondhand clothes for yourself or your kids—you can find great deals both locally and online. Facebook even has many local groups where you can exchange items for free with other parents. Fashion has become too disposable, and choosing sustainable options helps both your wallet and the environment.
Help Your Spouse Track Spending
As a homemaker, effectively tracking spending and budgeting can foster financial stability and peace of mind. It’s important to have open conversations with your partner about your financial goals. Utilizing apps or spreadsheets to monitor daily expenses—dividing them into categories like necessary bills, groceries, and leisure activities—can be very helpful. Make it a habit to regularly review your budget to pinpoint areas where you can cut back, and take time to celebrate small wins when you come in under budget. For instance, every Friday, my husband and I sit down to go over the Excel sheet he created for our finances.
Meal Planning
Meal planning doesn’t have to be complicated. Cook at home with simple staples like tuna, rice, beans, and frozen veggies. Start with five easy meals that your family enjoys, and build from there. A rotating meal plan not only saves time but also reduces decision fatigue.
Make Use of Free Resources and Outdoor
Don’t forget the abundance of free resources around you. The library is an amazing tool for homeschooling families, offering access to books, educational programs, and activities that can help supplement your homeschool curriculum. Additionally, outdoor activities like trips to the park, nature trails, or community events are great ways to keep your children entertained without spending money.
Reuse, Repurpose, and Reduce
Another important tip is to focus on reusing and repurposing what you already have. Instead of buying new, patch up old clothes or find creative ways to give them new life. You can also learn to style clothes you already own in different ways. Being content with what you have not only saves money but teaches your children the value of resourcefulness.
