The responsibilities that come with being a parent can be overbearing for those who weren’t expecting their newborn.
On the other hand, it’s not uncommon for couples to try to conceive even though it’s clear they aren’t ready. You may feel ready to take on the role of parenting.
However, if you can help it, you should reflect on your financial state, the state of your relationship, and the sacrifices you’ll have to make before trying to conceive.
Starting a family isn’t something that you’ll ever be 100% prepared for, but that doesn’t mean you should go about it without contemplating these factors.
1. You and your partner’s financial stability.
It is no secret that raising children is extremely expensive. Every parent will say it’s worth it, but it can be financially draining. If you can barely afford to take care of yourself, can you really handle the expenses that come with raising a child?
Is it really fair to bring a child into this world if you can hardly provide for them? Aim for financial stability before having kids so you can provide for them.
There is a right time for everything, so you should try to avoid having children at an inconvenient time in your life if you can help it.
2. Relational stability between both partners.
Solidity in your relationship is essential because raising a baby comes with endless amounts of stress. If your relationship already causes a great amount of strain, then having a baby will only provide more pressure.
Although having a baby has saved many relationships, you shouldn’t depend on a baby to save your own. Having a baby to save your deteriorating partnership sounds like an insincere reason to have a baby in the first place.
Both you and your partner should self-reflect then reflect on your overall relationship before you consider or try getting pregnant.
3. Lifestyle changes that having a child entails.
Something you should acknowledge is how much your life is going to change once you bring a child into this world.
It’s not just about you anymore. A great deal—if not all—of your time will be dedicated to your baby. A romantic relationship alone typically alters a person’s independence so picture how much of your time your future baby will occupy.
Let’s also not forget the sacrifices you will need to make to be a responsible parent. For example, if you’re the type of person who parties on a regular basis, then kiss that phase of your life goodbye.
If you can’t understand the significance of sacrifice of if you aren’t willing to make sacrifices for the good of your future baby, you may not be ready to have one.
∗∗∗∗∗∗
After really thinking about all these factors with your S.O., you will be able to make the right decision on whether you’re ready to conceive.
Remember: you’re never going to be fully ready to start a family because it’s a learning process. You simply have to be prepared to make the necessary adjustments to your life for the good of the child.
Image: iStock
Reflect & Refresh 