In life sometimes there are many things that we do not plan but happen and we have to sincerely accept them. If all this time, mothers who are used to just taking care of the household suddenly have to face reality, people who have been fulfilling the need to leave forever, either because of death or other causes such as divorce. In this condition, the mother inevitably has to take over the responsibility of raising and financing the lives of children and families. Lucky if a divorced ex-spouse is willing to keep funding the children's education. If the couple dies, then automatically all responsibility immediately turns to the shoulders of the mother.

Lucky if the mother has a steady job so that although it is difficult to still have a source of income to meet daily needs. So what about mothers who have no income at all? This problem is what often plagues many housewives who later become "single mom" or single mothers. Although being a single mom is not easy, especially in financial matters, it does not mean there is no way out to overcome this problem. Here are some smart references that might help single moms to stay afloat in the post-financial crisis in a stay away couple.

Smart Ways to Manage Finances for "Single Mom"

1. Check and Collect All Assets

Now is the time to recalculate how many assets we have, such as homes, vehicles, jewelry, and other assets, that have cash value or can be cashed. If the couple dies, then of course there is life insurance that can be disbursed by the heirs concerned. Collect the value of the insurance along with other assets so that we can measure the overall amount of assets or wealth owned.

2. Make a List of Debts or Financial Obligations to Be Paid

By making a list of financial obligations to be paid, then we can plan the payment for those obligations in accordance with the assets owned, at least for a period of several months before financial conditions recover.

3. Create Priority Scales for Spending

Maybe for some time the family's financial condition was unstable. In these times, expenses should be prioritized for posts that must be paid every month, such as electricity, water, environmental security, school SPP, and others. First put aside expenses that are not too important, such as buying clothes, accessories, eating out, and so on. Be aware that the income or income earned is not as much as before, so we must be more careful to spend it.
 

4. Explore the Potential to Find New Income

It is not easy indeed to be a single mom, in addition to being the only backbone in the family in terms of making a living, also having to educate and take care of the family. Just like any other family, single moms should be able to allocate and prepare income for daily life, sudden expenses, and long-term expenses. For this it takes more creative energy and mind to find additional income. No need to think too far about the types of businesses that can be used to find additional income, explore the potential in yourself and maximize it. Undergoing a business or business that starts from passion will feel easier and enjoyable, so the burden as a single mom will be slightly reduced.

5. Open About Financial Problems With Children

Children are the most important figures in sudden changes in the family atmosphere, therefore his feelings should not be ruled out. If the child's age is enough to understand the condition of his parents, talk to them from heart to heart, especially in family financial matters. Most likely there are things that used to be done, but now can not be done anymore. If the child is too young to understand the financial conditions to be faced, start teaching children to save if they have the desire to have something.

Thus, the child will learn to set the priority scale of his desires, at least starting from simple things. In addition, the mother can control the situation without having to make the child feel depressed.

Be confident and try

It is not easy to manage finances after being left behind by a partner, especially if you do not have enough financial preparation. However, rest assured slowly finances will improve if we are willing to keep trying and of course with the full support of children and families.