Income Opportunities for Stay-at-Home Mums: Embracing Entrepreneurship and Flexibility

Being a stay-at-home mum (SAHM) is a rewarding and fulfilling role, but it doesn't mean you can't also pursue financial independence and contribute to your family's income. In today's digital age, there are numerous ways for SAHM’s to make money from the comfort of their own homes. In this blog, we will explore a few different income opportunities that allow you to balance motherhood with entrepreneurship, creativity, and flexibility.

1. Freelancing:
Freelancing offers stay-at-home mums the flexibility to work on their own terms and utilize their existing skills. Whether you have a background in writing, graphic design, web development, social media management, or virtual assistance, freelancing platforms like Upwork and Fiverr, provide a platform to showcase your talents and connect with clients worldwide. This option allows you to choose projects that align with your interests and availability.

2. Blogging:
If you have a passion for writing and sharing your experiences like me, starting a blog can be a fulfilling and potentially lucrative endeavor. By creating valuable content and attracting a dedicated audience, you can monetize your blog through various channels, such as sponsored posts, affiliate marketing, and advertising. Blogging requires consistency, dedication, and the ability to build an online presence, but it offers the opportunity to turn your passion into a profitable venture. This blog has been built on Squarespace (reach out for a discount code), another top pick is Wix.

3. Online Tutoring:
If you have expertise in a particular subject, consider becoming an online tutor. Platforms like VIPKid, Tutor.com, and Cluey Learning connect tutors with students from around the world. Whether it's teaching English, math, science, or music, online tutoring allows you to share your knowledge and make a positive impact while earning an income. This option provides flexibility in terms of scheduling sessions and working from the comfort of your own home.

4. E-commerce:
The rise of e-commerce platforms like Etsy, Shopify, and Amazon has opened up opportunities for stay-at-home mums to start their own online businesses. Whether you have a talent for crafting, creating handmade products, or sourcing unique items, e-commerce platforms provide a global marketplace to showcase and sell your products. With dedication and effective marketing strategies, you can turn your hobby into a profitable business. Watch this space for my needle felted creations ;)

5. Virtual Assisting:
Many entrepreneurs and small businesses require assistance with administrative tasks, social media management, customer support, and more. As a virtual assistant, you can offer your services remotely, helping businesses stay organized and efficient. Platforms like Flexjobs and Freelancer connect virtual assistants with clients in need of their expertise. This option allows you to work flexible hours and choose projects that fit your skillset. The VA Institue provides training and support to get your business launched.

6. Network Marking (NWM) / Multi-level Marketing (MLM) / High Ticket:

Network marketing otherwise known as MLM, is a business model that depends on person-to-person sales by independent representatives, often working from home. A NWM business may require you to build a network of business partners or salespeople to assist with lead generation and closing sales. Arbonne, Isagenix, Herbalife, DoTERRA, Young Living, Juice Plus, Scentsy and Monat are all examples of MLM companies.

High ticket refers to products or programs that are very valuable and therefore earn a lot of money from each sale. Because each sale is lucrative for the seller, commissions are often high as well. Healy and Enagic Kangen Water are examples of High Ticket products and this Shopify blog details the top high ticket programs - The 15 Best High-Ticket Affiliate Marketing Programs.

Warning: Always read the Income Disclosure Statements (IDS) prior to joining any MLM. Many studies suggest 99% of participants lose money.

7. Affiliate Marketing:

Affiliate marketing is a revenue-sharing marketing model where you promote another company's product or service. When someone purchases through your affiliate link, you earn a commission. These commissions are usually a percentage of the sale price or a fixed amount. My personal favourite affiliate code is to a homeopathic company called Eugenie Kruger Homeopathy. Use code belleekh for 5 off.

8. Direct Sales:

Direct selling is selling products directly to consumers in a non-retail environment. Instead, sales occur at home, work, online, or other non-store locations. Companies like Thermomix (Margot Parkes Consultant & Naturopath) and Zazen Water are two examples.

9. Feet Pics:

Don’t laugh but selling feet pics has emerged as a unique business, and it’s only set to grow in the coming years. With an increasing number of people seeking personalised experiences, the demand for feet pics has skyrocketed. Websites you can use include Fun with Feet, Only Fans and Feet Finder.

10. Online Surveys:

Pureprofile, an online platform in Australia, offers paid surveys where you give your opinions for money. The surveys are of reasonable length and may require your demographic details. It's common to be asked for this info before you can participate. However, not all surveys may be a fit for you. There are various online survey websites but be careful of scams that require you to pay anything.

Find an option that matches your skills and interests, and don't hesitate to try different things.

Casual work options outside of the home:

• Pet Sitting / Dog Walking sites like Mad Paws & Pawshake are great to get started

• Use an online platform like Mable to provide disability and aged care support or reach out to local agencies

• Provide other services like nannying, cleaning, de-cluttering, beauty, ironing etc.

• Stocking shelves at retail and grocery stores, check out your local Coles Careers

• Hospitality work after hours and weekends

• Transport, meal and courier deliveries with companies like Uber, DoorDash and Amazon