35 Businesses to Earn Extra Income: Explore These Direct Sales Opportunities

1. Are you a mother looking to supplement your income? Direct sales and multi-level marketing companies offer flexible opportunities to earn money while balancing family life. Check out the following companies that have stood the test of time!

   1. Aloette
      Offers skincare and cosmetic products with a focus on natural ingredients. Visit Aloette

   2. Amway
      A well-known name in direct sales, Amway offers a range of health, beauty, and home products. Visit Amway

   3. Avon
      A classic in the beauty industry, Avon allows you to sell cosmetics and personal care items. Visit Avon

   4. Crowned Free
      Specializes in empowering women through fashion and accessories while giving back to those in need. Visit Crowned Free

   5. doTERRA
      Focuses on essential oils and wellness products, promoting a healthy lifestyle. Visit doTERRA

   6. Herbalife
      A global nutrition company that offers meal replacement shakes and dietary supplements. Visit Herbalife

   7. It Works!
      Known for body wraps and wellness products, It Works! gives you the chance to boost your income. Visit It Works!

   8. Jafra
      Offers a variety of beauty and skincare products, with a focus on customer service. Visit Jafra

   9. Java Momma
      A coffee company that allows you to sell gourmet coffee and related products. Visit Java Momma

   10. Jordan Essentials
       Focuses on natural skincare and body care products, promoting self-care and wellness. Visit Jordan Essentials

   11. J.R. Watkins
       Offers natural home and personal care products, emphasizing quality and tradition. Visit J.R. Watkins

   12. Juice Plus+
       Sells whole food nutritional products to supplement your diet. Visit Juice Plus+

   13. Kaeser & Blair
       A promotional products company that provides a platform for sales and marketing. Visit Kaeser & Blair

   14. La Bella Baskets
       Specializes in gift baskets and personalized gifts for various occasions. Visit La Bella Baskets

   15. Lemongrass Spa
       Focuses on natural spa products, making self-care accessible to everyone. Visit Lemongrass Spa

   16. LulaRoe
       Offers stylish and comfortable clothing, allowing you to host parties and sell online. Visit LulaRoe

   17. Magnabilities
       Features customizable magnetic jewelry that lets customers express their style. Visit Magnabilities (going out of business sale)

   18. Mary Kay
       A long-standing beauty company that empowers women through sales and skincare. Visit Mary Kay

   19. Melaleuca
       Focuses on health and wellness products, emphasizing eco-friendly solutions. Visit Melaleuca

   20. Modere
       Offers a range of personal care and household products with a focus on clean living. Visit Modere

   21. Monat Global
       Specializes in hair care products, promoting healthy hair and scalp. Visit Monat Global

   22. One Hope Wine
       A wine company that gives back to charitable causes with every purchase. Visit One Hope Wine

   23. Paparazzi Accessories
       Offers affordable jewelry and accessories, making it easy to sell at events. Visit Paparazzi

   24. PartyLite
       Sells candles and home décor items, perfect for creating a cozy atmosphere. Visit PartyLite

   25. PawTree
       Focuses on pet nutrition and wellness, allowing you to cater to pet lovers. Visit PawTree

   26. Rodan + Fields
       Offers dermatologist-developed skincare products with a focus on results. Visit Rodan + Fields

   27. Scentsy
       Known for its wax warmers and fragrance products, Scentsy is popular for home parties. Visit Scentsy

   28. Team Beachbody
       Focuses on fitness and nutrition, encouraging a healthy lifestyle. Visit Team Beachbody

   29. Think Goodness
       Offers a variety of products with a mission to spread positivity and wellness. Visit Think Goodness

   30. Tocara Jewelry
       Specializes in high-quality jewelry that empowers consultants to sell with style. Visit Tocara Jewelry

   31. Tupperware
       A household name in kitchenware, Tupperware offers opportunities through parties and events. Visit Tupperware

   32. WineShop At Home
       Offers wine and accessories, making it easy to host wine-tasting parties. Visit WineShop At Home

   33. Yanbal
       Focuses on beauty products and personal care with a commitment to empowering women. Visit Yanbal

   34. Youngevity
       Offers health and wellness products, promoting a healthier lifestyle. Visit Youngevity

   35. Young Living
       Known for its essential oils, Young Living promotes natural living and wellness. Visit Young Living

These companies provide a fantastic opportunity for mothers to earn extra income while working flexible hours. Remember to check reviews and do your research before diving in. Have fun and good luck on your entrepreneurial journey!

The Unshaken Minds - Finding Peace in the Storm

Mom Brain Is Real — Here’s How to Manage the Stress, Anxiety, and Emotional Whirlwind of Motherhood

Let’s be real: motherhood is beautiful, yes — but it can also feel like an emotional obstacle course with zero warning signs. One minute you're playing peek-a-boo and laughing until you cry, and the next you're holding back tears in the grocery store parking lot because you forgot to buy milk again.  Sound familiar?

If you're riding that emotional rollercoaster, you're not alone. Moms everywhere are feeling the weight of invisible labor, societal expectations, and the pressure to "do it all" — and it’s taking a toll. Let’s talk about it.

The Emotional Load of Motherhood Is Heavy — And Often Unseen

A 2022 report from the American Psychological Association found that "69% of mothers" reported being stressed out on a daily basis — compared to just 51% of fathers. And it’s not just the logistics of parenting; it's the mental weight of remembering every birthday, permission slip, doctor’s appointment, and emotional meltdown.

Sociologist Dr. Allison Daminger calls this "cognitive labor"  — the planning, anticipating, and organizing that tends to fall on mothers, even in households that share physical tasks more evenly. No wonder we’re exhausted.

When Stress Turns Into Anxiety

It’s normal to feel stress as a mom. But when it starts to creep into your sleep, your ability to enjoy your family, or even your sense of self-worth, it might be something more. According to the CDC, 1 in 5 women experience a perinatal mood and anxiety disorder (PMAD), which can occur during or after pregnancy.

And it doesn’t magically go away when your child turns one. Anxiety can hang around — often fueled by comparison (thanks, Instagram), unrealistic expectations, and the silence around how hard parenting really is.

So How Do We Cope?

Let’s break it down — here are a few realistic ways to manage the emotional rollercoaster, even if you don’t have three hours a day for self-care.

1. Set Boundaries — Guilt-Free
You are allowed to say no. You are allowed to set a bedtime and stick to it. You are allowed to tell your in-laws you’re not hosting Thanksgiving this year.  

Psychologist Dr. Nedra Tawwab, author of Set Boundaries, Find Peace, says boundaries are a form of self-respect and a pathway to mental health. Without them, stress creeps in, resentment builds, and burnout follows.

Try This: Write down three non-negotiable boundaries. Post them where you’ll see them every day. They don’t have to be dramatic — even “I don’t answer emails after 6 p.m.” counts.

2. Name the Feeling, Don’t Shame the Feeling
Ever tried to suppress your anxiety and ended up snapping at your kid over spilled juice? Same.
Clinical psychologist Dr. Susan David says that emotional agility — the ability to acknowledge and process your emotions rather than push them down — is key to resilience.

Try This: At the end of the day, jot down what you're feeling and why. No filter, no grammar check. You’re not writing a novel — you’re giving your emotions a name so they don’t hijack your nervous system.

3. Don’t Underestimate the Power of Connection
Motherhood can feel so isolating — especially if you’re in a stage where conversations are mostly with a toddler or your dog. But loneliness and stress are tightly linked. A Harvard study on well-being found that close relationships are the strongest predictor of long-term happiness.

Try This: Reach out to one mom friend a week. Just to vent, laugh, or drop a funny meme. If you don’t have a support system, consider joining an online mom group (yes, the good ones exist!) or check out organizations like Postpartum Support International for virtual groups.

4. Give Yourself Permission to Rest — Real Rest
Not scrolling rest. Not folding laundry while watching Netflix rest. Real rest. Your nervous system needs it.
A study published in Frontiers in Psychology shows that even 10 minutes of deep breathing or meditation a day can significantly reduce stress hormone levels. You don’t need a yoga retreat in Bali. You just need to stop for a few moments and breathe.

Try This: Try the 4-7-8 breathing method. Inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 7, exhale for 8. Do it 3 times. That’s it. Your body will thank you.

5. Remember: You’re Not “Too Sensitive” — You’re Wired to Care
The same part of your brain that makes you deeply attuned to your child’s needs is also the part that makes you feel everything more intensely. That’s not weakness. That’s biology.

In fact, MRI scans show that a mother’s brain actually changes structurally after childbirth to become more emotionally responsive — and those changes can last for years (Kim et al., 2016, Nature Neuroscience).

So if you cry at diaper commercials or get overwhelmed by loud toys and chaos, you’re not broken — your brain just really loves your kid.

Final Thoughts: You Are Still You

Yes, you’re a mom. But you’re also still you. And that version of you deserves rest, joy, community, and care — not just survival mode.

Stress and anxiety don’t make you a bad mom. They make you a real mom in a demanding world. Let’s stop pretending we have to smile through it all.

Let’s talk about it. Cry about it. Laugh about it. And remind each other: we’re not in this alone.

Resources for Moms Navigating Stress & Anxiety  

• Postpartum Support International — Free virtual support groups and a warmline  
• Set Boundaries, Find Peace by Nedra Glover Tawwab  
• Emotional Agility by Susan David  
• CDC Maternal Mental Health Statistics
• Harvard Study on Adult Development

When Mothers Cry Team

Part 1 of 2 Secret Behaviors that Cause Harm - psychological harm

How to get back to work after a career break | Carol Fishman Cohen

My Best Life Advice For You | What 83 Years Of Living Has Taught Me | Life with Sandra Hart

A Guide to Returnship Programs for Mothers Re-entering the Workforce

Returning to work after a significant break can be both exhilarating and daunting, especially for mothers who have dedicated years to raising their children. The landscape of work has changed, and so have the challenges. However, returnship programs are designed to support individuals like you in making a smooth transition back into the workforce. Here’s how you can navigate this journey, along with relatable examples and resources to help you along the way.

Understanding Returnship Programs

Returnship programs are structured opportunities for individuals who have been out of the workforce to gain the skills and experience needed to re-enter their careers. These programs typically last a few months and offer mentoring, training, and hands-on projects, allowing you to refresh your skills and rebuild your professional network.

Why Consider a Returnship?

1. Skill Refreshment: After years away, you might feel out of touch with industry trends. Returnships often provide training sessions that can help you catch up.

2. Networking Opportunities: Reconnecting with former colleagues or meeting new professionals in your field can be invaluable. Returnships often include networking events and team-building activities.

3. Real-World Experience: These programs offer a safe environment to apply your skills and learn new ones without the long-term commitment of a full-time job initially.

The Confidence Gap

After years of focusing on family, it’s normal to feel hesitant about your professional abilities. You may worry that you’ve lost your edge.

Engage in returnship programs where you can work alongside experienced professionals. This environment can help you regain your confidence and remind you of your capabilities. Many women in similar situations have found that simply participating in a returnship helped them remember their strengths and value in the workplace.

Balancing Work and Family

Juggling work responsibilities with family obligations can feel overwhelming, especially if your children are still young.

Look for returnship programs that offer flexible working hours or remote work options. Some companies understand the need for work-life balance and design their returnship programs accordingly. For instance, a mother who participated in a returnship found that the flexible hours allowed her to manage her children’s schedules while easing back into her career.

Encouragement for Your Journey

It’s important to remember that many women have successfully transitioned back to work after extended breaks. You are not alone on this journey. Embrace the process, and don’t hesitate to seek support from peers or mentors. 

Tip: Start by updating your resume and LinkedIn profile, focusing on transferable skills gained during your time at home, such as multitasking, project management, and communication. 

Resources 

Check out these valuable resources to help you explore returnship programs and strategies for re-entering the workforce:

1. Path Forward: This organization specializes in returnship programs for individuals returning to the workforce after caregiving.

2. iRelaunch: A resource hub for career re-launchers, offering webinars, articles, and a directory of companies with returnship programs.

3. The Mom Project: A platform connecting mothers with companies that embrace flexible work arrangements.

Returning to work after a break is a significant step, and it’s one that many women successfully navigate each year. By considering returnship programs, you can find a supportive pathway back into the workforce. Remember, every small step counts, and your experience is valuable. Embrace this new chapter with confidence and optimism—your skills and insights are needed in today's workplace.

When Mothers Cry Family

Family Crises: Support and Resources for Moms

Life can be unpredictable, especially for women with children. Balancing the demands of family, career, and personal life can sometimes lead to overwhelming challenges. Whether you’re managing a mental health crisis, dealing with financial hardships, or facing the emotional toll of a family separation, it’s essential to know that you’re not alone. 

Understanding Common Crises

As we journey through motherhood, we may encounter various crises that can strain our families. Here are some common challenges:

1. Mental Health Issues: Many of us experience bouts of anxiety or depression. When these feelings intensify, it can affect our ability to care for our children and ourselves.

2. Substance Abuse: Substance abuse can disrupt family life and create a cycle of stress and confusion.

3. Domestic Violence: If you or someone you know is in an unsafe situation, it’s crucial to seek help immediately. No one should suffer in silence.

4. Financial Struggles: Unexpected job loss or mounting debt can create a sense of instability. This can be particularly challenging when we’re trying to provide for our children.

5. Health Emergencies: A sudden illness or injury can change everything, shifting the family’s focus and responsibilities dramatically.

6. Natural Disasters: Events like floods or hurricanes can displace families and leave us feeling lost and vulnerable.

7. Divorce or Separation: The emotional fallout from a breakup can be profound, affecting not just us but our children as well.

8. Child Abuse or Neglect: If you suspect a child is in danger, it’s vital to reach out for help. Protecting children is a top priority.

9. Loss of a Loved One: Grieving can be a long process, especially when children are involved. It’s essential to navigate these feelings together as a family.

10. Unexpected Life Changes: Whether it’s a move or a change in family structure, adjustments can be challenging at any age.

Finding Support

When crises arise, it’s essential to have a support system in place. Here are some organizations that can help:

- National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): They offer support groups and resources specifically for families dealing with mental health issues. 

- Family Support America: This organization provides various resources to help families in need, offering guidance and support.

- The Family Institute: Focused on counseling, they help families navigate through tough times.

- Crisis Text Line: A text-based support service available 24/7 for anyone in crisis, including families.

- The National Domestic Violence Hotline: If you’re experiencing domestic violence, this hotline provides support and resources to help you find safety.

- SAMHSA: Their helpline offers assistance for families dealing with substance abuse issues.

- Children's Defense Fund: This organization advocates for children's rights and provides numerous resources for families.

You Are Not Alone

Facing a crisis can feel isolating, but remember that support is available. Reach out to friends, family, or professionals who can help guide you through these challenging times. Connecting with other women who understand your struggles can be incredibly empowering. 

If you find yourself in a crisis, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. There are many resources and people ready to support you on this journey. Together, we can navigate the complexities of family life and emerge stronger. 

Being a mom comes with its challenges, but it also brings wisdom and resilience. Embrace the support around you, and remember: it’s okay to ask for help. You are doing an incredible job, even when it feels overwhelming. Let’s lift each other up and tackle these challenges together.

When Mothers Cry Family