That's it I have to give up the one career I have ever wanted. I have been backed into a corner and I am devastated. Please talk to me.

[eenybeeny]

I have been training to be a CM. Which I really want to do. Basically I cant find a landlord who will accept a CM living in their house. The only way I can have a decent house in a decent area (nothing grand - DECENT) is to give up CMing and stock shelves at Tescos

I was an admin/PA before I had my DS and I wont put him in childcare so I cant work during the day. Looks like I am back to working at night doing menial unfulfilling work because otherwise I wont have a place to live. I cant believe this is happening to me. There is no solution for me, no give. I have to choose between putting DS in childcare and going back to work during the week or working nights doing shit. My passion is CM that is what I was born to do. So there you go. Another sacrifice I have had to make.

DH goes to work and earns his money. I am supposed to do all childcare AND earn money. Rather like pulling a rabbit out of a hat.

Twinkie - I think your posts were entirely reasonable and helpful. We all have to make choices. TBH, not being prepared to put your child in childcare is going to be the major restriction on jobs. I'm not being judgemental -it;s up to the OP if she doesnt want to use childcare, but you can't then whinge that it gives you less options.

Is there a possibility you could work at/start your own playgroup or nursery? That way, you get to be with kids, have your own with you, you're not at home, but still earning money?? Or be an actual childminder in someone else's home - I think there was a new scheme, different than nannying that allowed for that, so people could still claim tax credits.

Eeny you're clearly upset and I hope you take up at least one of the suggestions here.

It's good you're clear about why you're restricting your career choices - that you want to spend the maximum amount of time possible with your child.

That will of course severely restrict your career options...but do hold on to your reasons for doing so.

Parenthood always means compromises - but being clear about your priorities might help find a way through - it is impossible to have it all whatever anyone might say.

TBH I am a landlord, and I would not be happy about anyone running a business from one of my properties, regardless of insurance issues. The wear & tear would be so much more, and why should someone be profiting from my property without paying commercial rents?

There are some really good alternative ideas here though.