It has been a few months since I quit my job and decided to stay at home. It used to be the case that as a woman, I would be expected to stay at home once I was married. These days, it seems that women are expected to work. When I announced that I would be quitting my job, most people assumed that I was leaving for another job elsewhere. I suppose that in this economy, that is a fair assumption. What surprised me was how people reacted when I informed them that I would be staying at home. Almost every single person expressed concern over my choice, with some people even warning me against my decision. I was told that it would be bad for my career, that I was throwing my life away. I was told that I seemed like a person who couldn't stand to be "cooped up" in a house with nothing to do.
Well, it has been several months now. I have found that not only am I very happy and contented with my situation, but it has made me a healthier person as well. Here are some observations on the various aspects of my life that have improved:
Physical health:
The benefits of staying at home are most apparent in my improved physical health. Instead of eating frozen pizza five nights a week, I am able to plan out and cook healthy, filling meals. Instead of chugging two cups of coffee every morning (and cans of Mountain Dew throughout the day) in an effort to stay awake, I am getting a good night's sleep. I have time and energy to exercise and go on walks with my husband. I am no longer trying to eat away my stress.
Without even "trying," I have lost about 25 pounds since I started staying home. I definitely need to lose a lot more weight, but it's a good start and I feel great. Also, there are less allergens and dust particles around the home because I finally have time to clean on a regular basis.
Mental health:
When I was working, I had almost no time for recreational activities. I used to read 4-5 books a day when I was younger and in school, but when I was working I was lucky to manage a book per month. Since I have started staying home, I have read several books. I don't think I'll ever get to my childhood levels of reading ever again (curse you adult responsibilities!), but it is wonderful to lose myself in books once again. I have also been able to have "philosophical" discussions with my husband again. This is something we did a lot while we were dating, and it was one of the things that fell to the wayside while I was working. It is something we both missed, and I am so glad to be able to do it again.
Spiritual health:
I've already mentioned in previous posts that while I was working, I took care of my spiritual health in a minimalist, "survival mode" kind of way. Since I quit my job, I have been able to be more active in my church, including joining a Bible study group. This kind of ties into mental and social health as well, since I am learning new things and meeting new people. Also, I have much more time to pray. I have been adding all sorts of novenas to my daily prayers. I have been doing daily readings and praying the rosary too. I was definitely feeling worn down and exhausted while I was working, but I have a much more satisfied spirit now.
Social health:
Suddenly, I have time to socialize. I am able to get on social networking sites, spend an evening with friends, visit my family for a weekend, etc. When I was drowning under a pile of work, I pretty much socialized with coworkers and students while at work and my husband while at home. This is the area of my life that still needs a bit of work, as I am not an extrovert by nature. Also, I need to work on reconnecting with a lot of my old friends. But even if it's as simple as having time to walk around a mall with Brian, these little bursts of social activity are just what I needed.
In summary...
I am very glad that women are able to work and build careers, truly I am. I also realize how very fortunate I am to be able to stay home, as most people literally NEED two incomes to survive these days. However, I wish people wouldn't look at me with concern/pity/condescension when I tell them that I am a housewife. Isn't feminism about being able to choose what makes you happy? I am educated, smart, busy, accomplished, and most importantly, HAPPY. The people I love the most are happy. And at the end of the day...what else really matters?
I applaud you for making the choice you made no matter what anyone else thinks. Yes, you are fortunate to be able to be at home, but it is a choice you made for your betterment. It is frustrating when others have an issue with it. Maybe they just wish they had the gumption to make the same choice.
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