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AIBU?

Share your dilemmas and get honest opinions from other Mumsnetters.

To not know what I’ll do with myself

37 replies

StopOttering · 08/05/2026 12:25

My youngest starts school in September. I’m dreading it 😔 she was born in September 2021, a few weeks after my eldest started school. I have either been pregnant or had a baby/child at home with me since 2016.
I’ve had part time jobs in this time but I’m not currently working and I don’t need to desperately from a financial point of view, I’m also finding jobs are harder to find in my area. I’d like a little job but I worry what we would do in school holidays or if the kids were unwell.
part of me has even thought about if I’d like another child, but I don’t know if it’s just to fill the gap of having a child at home and wanted to feel needed more than wanting a third child, as I’m almost 38 now and much more tired than I was 10 years ago.

anyone else been in this position? What did you do? Thank you.

OP posts:
newrubylane · 08/05/2026 12:45

I studied part-time for the first couple of years. Now I work freelance and keep school holidays free.

mumofoneAloneandwell · 08/05/2026 12:44

Take up pilates, hosting and cocktail making

Live your best life!! ❤️

Comedycook · 08/05/2026 12:42

I found the day went really quickly. I would try to make sure all the chores and cooking were done so we could have a relaxed afternoon/evening once they got home. I found there were so many school events, inset days, holidays etc so I always had a lot to do. I wouldn't have another baby just to fill the gap...they will grow up too and you'll end up in the same situation just at a later point

WhatNextImScared · 08/05/2026 12:37

Primary school is like a long work meeting. As soon as you’ve hoovered and made a cup of tea it’s over. I’m self employed and school hours are my main working hours and it’s SUCH a short day. I promise you won’t be bored or aimless if you’re not working. I wish I could afford to rest during some of those breaks rather than work like the clappers.

Nofeckingway · 08/05/2026 12:35

Work is overrated not too many people love theirs . School is such a short day I find at primary level. Add in holidays, inset , and it's not that much . If you don't have to work it's lovely for the kids to be able to be home . Only thing I would urge is to ensure your budget includes putting money aside for a pension for yourself.

Bristolandlazy · 08/05/2026 12:31

You'll fill the time, the day goes faster than you think. If you're really stuck you could volunteer. You could even go into school and listen to reading. I can remember feeling the same years ago but personally I enjoyed having time to myself. Starting running with another school mum, going out for lunch etc.
. Good luck.

Dillydollydingdong · 08/05/2026 12:31

If you don't need to work from a financial point of view, then don't. There are all sorts of ways to fill your time if that's what is important to you. How about volunteering? Or learn a craft? You could learn something interesting and then sell the results? People do crochet and then sell at craft fayres.

Devondevs · 08/05/2026 12:31

Perhaps you could do some volunteer work or join a hobby club to fill your time. Your childs school might even have a positive available such as a crossing guard or dinner lady, something that works around school hours.

DoYouLikeYourNaneFred · 08/05/2026 12:30

How about looking after another baby/child?

Sunisgettinganewhaton · 08/05/2026 12:29

I've just worked out I've been doing primary school runs for 33 years. I can't bloody wait unto July and it comes to an end! I'm thinking nice breakfast before work /long ddog walk /lie in!

ToKittyornottoKitty · 08/05/2026 12:27

Unless you are sending them to boarding school it’s really not that drastic, those hours between 9-3 fly by once in a routine. Find a hobby or term time only part time job (like lunch supervisor at school) and enjoy a little more time to get things done

JacknDiane · 08/05/2026 12:27

Wait until the youngest leaves home 😪