Why Going Back to Work Can Be One of the Best Investments You Make in Yourself
Childcare is expensive — there’s no denying it. In Louisiana, the average cost ranges from $7,500–$9,500 per year for one child, and in cities like New Orleans, care for two young children can exceed $20,000 annually. With the state’s median household income around $60,000, it can feel like your paycheck is being swallowed whole by childcare costs.
But before you decide to step away from your career, here’s something important to consider: going back to work isn’t just about covering childcare — it’s about protecting your financial future and your mental well-being.
The Financial Benefits of Staying in the Workforce
When you compare your salary directly to the cost of childcare, it’s easy to think, “Why work just to pay for daycare?” But this overlooks the long-term picture:
- Your salary compounds over time. Taking a break, even just a few years, often means re-entering at a lower pay rate. Staying in the workforce preserves your earning potential.
- Retirement security. Those years in the workforce mean more retirement savings, Social Security credits, and employer benefits — all of which add up over a lifetime.
- Independence in case of the unexpected. Divorce, job loss, or illness can happen. Having your own career ensures you aren’t financially dependent on someone else.
The Mental & Emotional Benefits of Work
Work isn’t just about money — it’s also about you.
- Identity and self-worth. Many women find fulfillment in using their skills and talents outside of motherhood.
- Community and connection. A career provides relationships, mentorship, and adult interaction that are often missing when you’re home full-time.
- Confidence and independence. Knowing you can support yourself and your family builds confidence and reduces anxiety about the future.
One mom put it simply:
“A job is not just about salary. It’s about freedom, independence, and a life outside of the home. It gives you SO much!!”
Shifting the Perspective on Childcare
Instead of seeing childcare as something that “takes your whole paycheck,” try viewing it as:
- An investment in your child’s early education (where they gain social, emotional, and academic skills).
- An investment in your own career and financial security.
- A shared family expense, not just “mom’s burden.”
The Takeaway
Yes, childcare is costly. But the benefits of staying in the workforce — for your finances, your future, and your mental health — far outweigh the short-term savings of stepping away.
By going back to work, you’re not only providing your child with high-quality early education — you’re also building a stronger, more secure, and more fulfilled life for yourself.
