At least that’s what Forbes and Salary.com tell me here. And I could add even more job titles to this like: scheduler, manager and personal assistant/stylist/shopper, just to name a few. I just read another article – a more recent one – about this same thing (but I can’t find it) which is why it’s on my mind.
I always find these articles to be refreshing and affirming.
Yet at the same time they bother me a little because I’m just not sure how fair they are. Now don’t get me wrong, I’m not saying stay-at-home-moms don’t deserve this compensation chart – believe me, I do! But I also think there should also be a chart for working dads (or every body else for that matter – parent or not). Think about all the stuff they do for the family in addition to working:
- Handy man/contractor
- Financial planner
- Accountant
- Auto repairman
- Price negotiator
- Home inspector
- Grounds keeper
- Systems operator
- Psychologist (for their wives)
- Comedian (Ryan’s addition)
And I’m totally missing some. Isn’t that like a $2 million dollar salary?? Maybe this isn’t your family but this is ours. So yeah, I have a lot of hats but so does Ryan.
It’s not that I’m discounting all the crazy-huge responsibilities of a SAHM, it’s just that when we see “personal chef” on the list we have to laugh a bit because it’s not totally realistic – what normal, blue-collar family has a personal chef? It’s just something that has to get done (and let’s be honest…how often are meals “personal chef” quality? I know that on pizza night it doesn’t require any effort on my part). Cooking is just like paying the bills and creating a budget and fixing the tv when it’s broken. You know what I’m saying?
So when I see things that say how much money a SAHM should earn, I nod my head in total agreement. But I ALSO remember not to get too proud…working dads have more worth than what they’re compensated for, too.
In short: we should be millionaires. That is all.
Your thoughts?
Richly yours,
Laura