25+ Smart Ways Stay-at-Home Moms Can Make Money from Home

Between school runs, nap times, and endless laundry, you might wonder if there’s really a way to contribute financially without sacrificing precious family time. The answer, dear moms, is a resounding YES.

You’re already juggling multiple roles—teacher, chef, peace negotiator, and household CEO. So why not add “income earner” to the list, on your own terms?

Many moms secretly crave something beyond the daily routine — not because motherhood isn’t fulfilling, but because you are more than one role. The desire for financial independence, the urge to use your brain in new ways, and the need for flexibility above all else are valid.

Let’s be honest: that mix of personal purpose and financial freedom can be a game changer for your confidence and family life.

But first, let’s bust a few myths that might hold you back. Well, I’ve got good news for you: yes, Stay-at-Home Moms can make money, and not in some scammy, too-good-to-be-true kind of way. We’re talking about real ways — flexible, fulfilling, and totally doable, even with a toddler hanging off your leg.

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Myth #1: “You need a fancy degree or office experience.”

Nope. Not even close.

You’ve already mastered project management (a.k.a. getting everyone out the door by 8 AM), crisis resolution (when the cereal runs out), and multitasking like a pro. Believe it or not, companies pay for those exact skills.

Myth #2: “All work-from-home jobs are scams.”

Sure, there are sketchy ones out there, but that’s not the whole picture.

The online world today is full of legitimate opportunities — freelance work, digital shops, tutoring, and even creative gigs — all from your couch, coffee mug in hand.

Myth #3: “You don’t have any marketable skills.”

Please. If you can budget a household, soothe a screaming toddler, and plan a birthday party that rivals Pinterest boards, you’ve got plenty of marketable skills. We’ll show you exactly how to turn them into income.

The Foundation – Getting Your Mind (and Space) Ready

Before jumping into business ideas, let’s talk foundation. Because the secret to how Stay-at-Home Moms can make money long-term isn’t luck — it’s structure and self-awareness.

Step 1: Do a Quick Self-Assessment

Time Audit:

Be brutally honest with yourself. Maybe you can carve out 10 hours a week during naps or school time. Or maybe it’s 3 hours at night with Netflix in the background. That’s totally fine — consistency matters more than hours.

Skill Inventory:

Ask yourself: what comes naturally to me? Are you a whiz at organizing? A great writer? A patient teacher? Jot it down — those are clues to your future business.

Interest Check:

You’ll only stick with something you actually enjoy. If you hate spreadsheets, don’t become a bookkeeper. But if you love crafts, teaching, or writing, that’s your starting point.

Step 2: Set Realistic Expectations

Making money from home is not a get-rich-quick story. Think of it like training for a marathon — slow, steady, and totally worth it.

The first $100 you earn might not seem like much, but it’ll light you up. That tiny win builds momentum — and confidence.

Step 3: Create Your Tiny-but-Mighty Workspace

You don’t need a Pinterest-perfect home office. Even a corner of your kitchen table can do. Add a plant, some sticky notes, and call it your “command center.”

Essential Tools for Stay-at-Home Moms Who Want to Make Money:

  • Google Docs / Sheets: for writing, tracking, and planning
  • Canva: create beautiful graphics or digital products
  • Trello / Notion: organize tasks and ideas
  • A separate bank account: keeps your “mom boss” income tidy

Trust me, having your own little workspace helps your brain switch into business mode — even if your toddler is coloring right beside you.

The Money-Making Ideas – Real Ways Stay-at-Home Moms Can Make Money

Alright, let’s get into the fun stuff. Here’s a breakdown of real, proven ways Stay-at-Home Moms can make money — grouped into categories so you can find your perfect match.

🧠 Category 1: Leverage Your Skills (The Freelance & Service Zone)

Let’s be honest. Most moms underestimate just how valuable their everyday skills really are. If you’ve ever managed a household, planned a birthday party, or helped a friend fix a résumé, you’ve got more real-world experience than you think. The freelance and service zone is where Stay-at-Home Moms can make money by turning those hidden talents into a steady income.

1. Freelance Writing or Editing

If you’ve got a way with words or love catching grammar goofs (you know, the kind that make your inner teacher twitch), freelance writing or editing could be your goldmine. Businesses, blogs, and online magazines are always on the hunt for writers who can create relatable, easy-to-read content.

Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or ProBlogger can help you get started. Begin with small gigs, build your portfolio, and you’ll be surprised how quickly clients start returning. And the best part? You can work during nap time or after the kids’ bedtime — total mom-win!

2. Virtual Assistant (VA)

Here’s one that’s blowing up lately. If you’re organized, love making lists, and can multitask like a boss (let’s face it, moms are pros at that), becoming a virtual assistant could be your thing.

From managing emails to scheduling meetings or handling social media, businesses love outsourcing these tasks. The flexibility here is amazing — you set your hours, your rates, and your workload. This is one of the top ways Stay-at-Home Moms can make money while using skills they already have.

3. Social Media Manager

If you’re already scrolling through Instagram or Pinterest during your coffee break, why not turn that time into income? Many small businesses can’t keep up with the social media game, and that’s where you step in.

You can manage posts, engage with followers, or even help create content. Social media management jobs often pay hourly or on a monthly retainer, depending on your skill level. This gig lets Stay-at-Home Moms make money while staying plugged into a fun, creative space.

4. Online Tutoring or Coaching

Got a degree or special skill? Maybe you’re good at math, English, yoga, or even parenting advice — yes, that’s a thing! Platforms like Tutors.com and Teachable make it easy to set up your online classroom.

Online teaching can be deeply rewarding — you’re not just earning money but also helping someone learn something new. Plus, it fits perfectly into a mom’s schedule since you can teach from your laptop anywhere in the house.

5. Graphic Design & Creative Services

If you’ve got an eye for design or love making cute Canva graphics for birthday invites, consider offering creative services. Businesses, influencers, and content creators all need designs for logos, flyers, and social posts.

You don’t even need a fancy degree — just creativity, patience, and a good sense of color. This path is another fantastic way for stay-at-home Moms can make money using their artistic side.

6. Bookkeeping & Administrative Services

Love spreadsheets? Or maybe you’ve always been good with numbers. Small businesses and solopreneurs often need part-time help with bookkeeping, invoicing, or record-keeping.

You can learn modern accounting tools like QuickBooks or Xero online for free or at a low cost. It’s low-stress, remote-friendly, and pretty consistent once you land regular clients.

💡 Pro Tip: The key to thriving in this category is confidence. Start small — maybe one freelance gig or one client — and build from there. As you grow, increase your rates and expand your services. Before you know it, you’ll be running a mini online business from your kitchen table.

🎨 Category 2: Create & Sell (The Entrepreneurial Route)

Alright, here’s the fun part — the creative zone! If you’ve got a passion for crafting, baking, designing, or even organizing pretty things, this is where the magic happens. Sometimes, what feels like a hobby can actually turn into a small business. And yes, this is another brilliant way Stay-at-Home Moms can make money — doing what they love, right from home.

7. Handmade Crafts & Etsy Store

Let’s be real — moms are naturally creative. From birthday décor to DIY school projects, we’ve all done it. Why not monetize that creativity? Websites like Etsy, Shopify, or even Instagram Shops let you sell handmade products such as candles, jewelry, soaps, home décor, or personalized gifts.

The best part? You don’t need a huge investment to start. A few materials, some creativity, and maybe a bit of patience are enough to get going. Every sale feels personal because it’s your creation. It’s not just about money; it’s about building something that’s truly yours.

8. Baking or Home-Based Food Business

If your kitchen smells like heaven and your neighbors always compliment your cakes or cookies, this one’s for you. Starting a small home bakery or snack business is a tried-and-true way for stay-at-home Moms can make money.

You can take custom orders for birthdays, festivals, or events. Start small — maybe with cupcakes, pickles, or healthy tiffin boxes — and promote your goodies through WhatsApp groups, Instagram, or local mom communities. The smile on a customer’s face when they say, “This tastes amazing!” is honestly priceless.

9. Print-on-Demand Products

This one’s for the moms who love creativity but don’t want to deal with inventory. You can design T-shirts, mugs, tote bags, or notebooks using platforms like Redbubble, Teespring, or Printful.

Once you upload your designs, the platform handles printing, shipping, and customer service. You earn a profit every time someone buys your product — it’s like having a passive income stream from your artistic brain! And yes, Stay-at-Home Moms can make money through this while juggling home life without stress.

10. Digital Products & Printables

This is one of the smartest ways to earn online. If you’re good at designing planners, kids’ activity sheets, meal templates, or motivational quotes, you can sell digital downloads on Etsy or your own website.

There’s no inventory, no shipping — just your ideas, turned into files people pay for. Once it’s uploaded, it can sell over and over again, even while you sleep. It’s no wonder so many Stay-at-Home Moms make money through digital products nowadays.

11. Custom Gifting & Event Planning

You know how moms have that natural knack for making things look perfect? Use it! Start a small custom gifting business — offering curated hampers, baby shower gifts, or birthday décor packages. Or if you’re good at planning and organizing, become a home event planner.

This is a great offline option for moms who enjoy socializing and creating joyful experiences. And yes, this too is one of the practical ways Stay-at-Home Moms can make money doing what they already love.

💬 Little Reality Check: Turning your passion into profit might not happen overnight — and that’s okay. The first few months might feel like slow progress, but each product you make or client you serve brings you closer to your dream of financial independence. Remember, consistency beats speed. Keep showing up, and your small side hustle could soon turn into a full-time business.

💰 Category 3: Build Passive Income Streams (The Smart Money Zone)

Now, this is where things start to get really exciting — the “make money while you sleep” zone. Yep, it’s possible, and no, it’s not a scam. Passive income means setting up something once and letting it earn for you again and again with minimal effort.
It’s one of the smartest, most sustainable ways Stay-at-Home Moms can make money without burning out.

Let’s explore a few tried-and-true options that actually work.

12. Start a Blog or YouTube Channel

I know what you’re thinking — “Blogging? Isn’t that old-school?” Well, not really. Blogging at present is very much alive — especially when done right. You can start a blog about anything you’re genuinely interested in — parenting tips, cooking, fitness, homeschooling, budgeting, or even mental health for moms.

Once your blog starts getting visitors, you can monetize it through:

  • Display ads (Google AdSense, Ezoic)
  • Affiliate marketing (recommending products you love)
  • Sponsored posts (brands paying you to feature them)

The same goes for a YouTube channel. You don’t need to be a professional filmmaker — just be real. Talk about mom life, share recipes, or vlog your daily routines. Authenticity always wins.

With time, ad revenue and brand collaborations can bring in consistent income. It’s one of the most fulfilling ways Stay-at-Home Moms can make money while expressing themselves creatively.

13. Create and Sell an Online Course

Do you have a skill or knowledge others might want to learn? Maybe it’s organizing kids’ schedules, managing home budgets, baking, or teaching phonics to toddlers.

Turn that expertise into an online course and sell it on platforms like Teachable, Thinkific, or Udemy.

Once your course is live, it can generate income for months — even years — without you having to be “on” all the time.
Plus, teaching something you’re passionate about feels incredibly empowering. It’s not just about money; it’s about creating impact. Truly, this is one of the best ways Stay-at-Home Moms can make money while building confidence and authority.

14. Sell Stock Photos or Footage

If you have a decent camera or even a good smartphone, you can earn from your photos or short videos. Websites like Shutterstock, Adobe Stock, and iStock let you upload your content, and each time someone downloads it, you earn a royalty.

For example:

  • Take lifestyle photos of your kids playing.
  • Capture cozy home setups.
  • Record clips of cooking, gardening, or daily mom routines.

It’s simple, passive, and surprisingly fun. Some moms make hundreds each month this way. Again, this shows how Stay-at-Home Moms can make money without being glued to a laptop all day.

15. Write and Self-Publish an eBook

If you’ve got stories, experiences, or expertise worth sharing — turn them into an eBook. You can publish it on Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) or Payhip, and earn royalties every time someone buys it.

Your eBook doesn’t need to be a 300-page novel. It could be:

  • “Quick Lunchbox Ideas for Busy Moms”
  • “Budgeting for Beginners”
  • “How I Managed Toddler Tantrums and Stayed Sane”

The beauty of it? Once it’s published, it sells 24/7 — even while you’re asleep, folding laundry, or binge-watching your favorite show. Truly, this is a peaceful and empowering way Stay-at-Home Moms can make money on autopilot.

16. Affiliate Marketing

Here’s how this works — you recommend a product or service you actually use and love (say, a baby stroller or a kitchen gadget), and when someone buys through your referral link, you earn a commission. No inventory. No shipping. No customer service. Just smart marketing.

You can share affiliate links through:

  • Your blog
  • Your Instagram or Pinterest
  • YouTube descriptions
  • Or even your WhatsApp mom groups

It’s like being a friendly, trustworthy guide who helps others make good choices — and gets paid for it. Many Stay-at-Home Moms make money through affiliate programs like Amazon Associates, Awin, or Impact Radius. The trick? Promote products that align with your audience’s needs, not random stuff.

17. Printables & Templates

This one’s genius for moms who love organization. You can design printable planners, calendars, meal prep sheets, or even kids’ reward charts. Once you list them on Etsy or your own shop, they sell digitally — no shipping, no packaging.

It’s creative, low-cost, and completely home-friendly. And the best part? You only make it once, but you can sell it forever. That’s the definition of passive income!

💡 Pro Tip for Moms: Passive income takes time to build — there’s effort at the beginning. But once the system is in place, it runs quietly in the background while you handle life. The goal is freedom — time freedom, financial freedom, and mental freedom.

So yes, even between diaper changes and dinner preps, stay-at-Home Moms can make money that continues flowing in long after the initial setup.

🏡 Category 4: Use What You Already Have (Leverage Your Home & Assets)

Sometimes, the best opportunities to earn money are sitting right under your nose — in your home, your routine, or even the things you already own. You don’t always need to start from scratch or build a business empire from day one.
This section is about using your existing resources wisely — because Stay-at-Home Moms can make money simply by being a little creative with what they’ve got.

18. Rent Out a Spare Room on Airbnb

If you’ve got an extra room, why not list it on Airbnb? Thousands of moms across the globe do this and earn a nice side income. Some even rent out driveways, parking spaces, or storage sheds on apps like Neighbor.com.

And if you’ve got baby gear, cameras, or tools gathering dust, try renting them out on Fat Llama or BabyQuip. It’s practical, sustainable, and a perfect fit for families who want to make the most out of what they already own.

You can start small — host once or twice a month and see how it goes. Add personal touches like homemade breakfast, simple décor, or friendly local tips. Before you know it, your spare room could bring in a few thousand rupees a month (or more).

19. Rent Out Storage Space

Got an empty garage, attic, or a big cupboard that’s not being used? Believe it or not, people pay to store their stuff safely. Platforms like StoreAtMyHouse or local storage-sharing apps allow you to rent out extra space to nearby residents who need temporary storage for boxes, furniture, or seasonal items.

This is one of those “set it and forget it” kinds of ideas — very little effort, but steady returns. It’s not glamorous, but it’s practical, safe, and smart. That’s how Stay-at-Home Moms can make money without adding more chaos to their schedules.

20. Offer Babysitting or Daycare Services

If you’re already home with your kids, adding one or two more children to your daily routine might not be such a big stretch — especially if you love kids. Many parents (especially working couples) are always on the lookout for trustworthy, home-based daycare options.

You can start by babysitting kids from your neighborhood for a few hours each day or during after-school hours. It’s flexible, family-friendly, and can easily fit into your lifestyle. Plus, it’s a fulfilling job — helping another parent while earning for your own family. Truly, this is one of the most rewarding ways Stay-at-Home Moms can make money.

21. Pet Sitting or Dog Walking

Animal lovers, this one’s for you. If you adore pets (and your kids do too), offering pet-sitting or dog-walking services can be a fun side hustle. Many pet owners hate leaving their furry friends alone, especially when they go to work or travel.

You can charge per hour or per day, depending on your availability. The best part? You can involve your kids — it’s wholesome family time and income at the same time. It’s one of those surprisingly enjoyable ways Stay-at-Home Moms can make money while staying active and happy.

22. Cooked Meals or Tiffin Service

If your cooking is already the talk of your neighborhood (and let’s be honest, most Indian moms are amazing cooks), you can start a small home-based tiffin or meal service. Office-goers, students, and bachelors are always hunting for fresh, home-style food.

You can start small — maybe five lunch boxes a day — and grow through word of mouth. This is one of the most time-tested ways Stay-at-Home Moms can make money — turning their everyday kitchen routine into a satisfying side business.

23. Rent Out Your Car or Bike

If you own a car or scooter that sits idle most days, consider renting it out through apps like Uber or Turo. It’s a hassle-free way to earn passive income from something you already have.

Of course, you’ll want to make sure it’s insured and kept in good condition, but otherwise, it’s a simple setup — you just list it and get paid each time someone books your vehicle. Smart, right?

24. Laundry or Ironing Services from Home

This one’s underrated but surprisingly profitable — especially in urban or semi-urban neighborhoods. Many busy families prefer outsourcing laundry or ironing. If you already have the setup (washing machine, iron, and a bit of space), you can easily start a small home-based service. Even with just 5–10 regular customers, you could earn a consistent monthly income.

And yes, it’s 100% legit — Stay-at-Home Moms can make money by running simple, home-centered businesses like this that solve everyday problems for others.

25. Rent Out Baby Gear

If your kids have outgrown their stroller, crib, or car seat — don’t let those items gather dust. Other new moms might really need them, but don’t want to buy brand new ones for short-term use.

Websites like BabyWays, BabyQuip, or local Facebook mom groups often allow you to rent or sell these items safely.

It’s a win-win — you declutter your home and make money in the process.

26. Turn Your Home Into a Workshop or Class Space

If you’re good at something — like art, yoga, baking, or dance — open your living room or balcony as a small workshop area. You could teach neighborhood kids art or organize weekend hobby classes for moms.

It’s intimate, flexible, and incredibly rewarding — not just financially but emotionally too. Teaching from your own home lets you share your passion while earning at your own pace.

🌟 The Hidden Power of “What You Already Have”

Here’s the truth: You don’t always need a brand-new idea to start earning. Sometimes, your existing life — your home, your talents, your things — holds all the ingredients for a sustainable income. When you shift your mindset to see possibilities instead of limitations, that’s when the magic begins.

So yes, Stay-at-Home Moms can make money without working 9 to 5 or juggling two laptops. They can do it naturally — right within their home environment, surrounded by their family, and on their own terms.

The Action Plan – Getting Started for Real

Feeling motivated? Awesome. Here’s a step-by-step plan to actually start.

Step 1: Pick ONE Thing

This is where many moms trip up — trying to do everything at once. Pick one idea. Test it. Learn from it. Then scale.

Step 2: Validate Your Idea

Before spending time or money:

  • Check Etsy or Fiverr to see if there’s demand.
  • Search Facebook groups — what are people asking for?
  • Google “best-selling Etsy products” or “top Fiverr gigs” for inspiration.

Step 3: Set Up Your Basics

Create a dedicated email for business stuff.

  • Set up PayPal or Stripe for payments.
  • Build a simple portfolio on LinkedIn or Carrd.co.
  • Keep a spreadsheet for earnings and expenses (you’ll thank yourself later).

Step 4: Find Your First Client or Customer

This part’s exciting. Tell your friends, post on WhatsApp groups, or share in mom forums. Offer a “friends & family” discount for your first few clients to build reviews and trust.

Once you get your first sale or client, you’re officially in business!

Pitfalls to Avoid – Because It’s Not Always Perfect

Every journey has bumps. Here’s what to watch out for.

A. Avoid Scams

  • If someone says, “Pay $1,00 to access jobs,” run.
  • If they can’t clearly explain what you’ll be doing, double-run.
  • Stick with trusted platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or direct client referrals.

B. Balance Family and Work

  • Easier said than done, right?
  • But setting small boundaries — like no work during dinner or after 8 PM — makes a world of difference.
  • Also, tell your family: “Hey, this is my work time. Treat it like I’m in an office.”

And remember: some days will go sideways. That’s fine. You’re human, not a machine.

C. Track Your Taxes

  • Keep records of income and expenses.
  • Even side gigs need basic documentation.
  • If you start earning consistently, chat with a tax advisor about deductions or small business benefits.

Final Thoughts

Let’s be real — life as a stay-at-home mom is already packed. You’re the scheduler, the problem solver, the emotional anchor of the house. But here’s the thing: you’re also capable of building something amazing on your terms.

So yes, Stay-at-Home Moms can make money, and no, it doesn’t have to be complicated. Start small. Be patient. Learn as you go.

The joy of earning your first rupee or dollar — doing something you built — is indescribable. It’s empowering. It’s proof that your identity extends beyond motherhood (though that’s still your most beautiful job).

FAQs: How Stay-at-Home Moms Can Make Money

What are the easiest ways Stay-at-Home Moms can make money?

Honestly, the easiest way to start is by doing what you already know — like freelancing, selling handmade items, or offering small local services. Platforms such as Upwork, Etsy, and Fiverr make it simple to find clients or customers. You can also explore blogging, affiliate marketing, or digital products if you want long-term passive income. Remember, Stay-at-Home Moms can make money in dozens of ways — it’s all about matching your skills and time availability.

How much money can Stay-at-Home Moms realistically make online?

That really depends on the type of work and how much effort you can put in. For instance, freelance writers or virtual assistants in the U.S. often make between $20–$40 per hour, while bloggers and course creators can make hundreds or even thousands of dollars per month once their audience grows. Passive income options like affiliate marketing or eBooks take longer to build, but they can eventually bring steady monthly income — sometimes even replacing a full-time job!

Do I need technical skills to start an online business from home?

Not necessarily! Many online opportunities for moms require little to no technical skills. For example, you can open an Etsy shop, manage social media accounts, or sell printables without coding or design experience. Of course, learning basic tools like Canva, Google Docs, or Shopify helps — but most platforms are super beginner-friendly now. The truth is, Stay-at-Home Moms can make money even with minimal tech know-how — you just need curiosity and consistency.

What are some legit websites Stay-at-Home Moms can use to find remote work?

Some of the most trusted websites include:

  • Upwork – for freelancers in writing, design, and admin work
  • Fiverr – for selling short-term services
  • FlexJobs – for remote and flexible jobs (especially mom-friendly)
  • Remote.co and We Work Remotely – for part-time and full-time remote roles

All of these sites are legitimate and globally recognized — perfect for moms who want to balance work and home without scams or fake offers.

How can Stay-at-Home Moms make passive income without much investment?

This one’s a favorite! Start with affiliate marketing, YouTube videos, or digital products like planners, templates, or guides. If you’re more into creative stuff, try selling stock photos or starting a blog that earns through ads. Another great option is to write an eBook or create a mini course once and sell it multiple times. These are great low-cost ways Stay-at-Home Moms can make money passively while managing family life.

What if I don’t have a clear skill or passion yet?

Totally normal — don’t stress about it. Many moms discover their niche after trying a few things. Start by asking yourself:

  • What do friends or family often ask you for help with?
  • What do you enjoy learning or talking about?

Sometimes, that’s where your hidden skill lies. And guess what — you don’t need to be an “expert” right away. Many successful mompreneurs started from zero. So yes, Stay-at-Home Moms can make money even if they’re still figuring things out!

How can I manage time between kids and work from home?

Ah, the golden question! The secret lies in micro time blocks. Work in short, focused bursts — like during nap times or early mornings. Use tools like Trello or Google Calendar to plan small daily goals. It’s okay if progress feels slow at first. Remember, consistency matters more than long hours. You’re not just working — you’re building something for yourself. That’s why it’s so inspiring how Stay-at-Home Moms can make money while still being fully present for their families.

Do I need to register a business if I earn from home?

If your side hustle starts earning regularly (especially in the U.S.), it’s smart to treat it like a real business. You can start as a sole proprietor or register an LLC for tax and legal protection. Platforms like LegalZoom and ZenBusiness make the process simple. It’s not mandatory when you’re just starting, but once income grows, it’s worth doing. After all, Stay-at-Home Moms can make money professionally too — not just casually.

Can Stay-at-Home Moms make money on social media?

Absolutely! Social media has opened up endless opportunities. You can earn by creating Instagram Reels, YouTube Shorts, or Pinterest content around family life, recipes, or home hacks. Once you build a following, you can monetize through brand collaborations, affiliate links, or your own products. Some moms in the U.S. are earning $2,000–$10,000 a month doing exactly this — all while staying home with their kids.

What’s the first step to start making money from home today?

Start small, start now. Pick one thing — maybe freelancing, selling crafts, or blogging — and give it a genuine try for 30 days. Avoid trying everything at once. Take one small step daily, and you’ll be amazed at how it compounds. The truth is, Stay-at-Home Moms can make money starting with nothing more than their phone, laptop, and determination.

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