Knowing whether you’re ready to be a parent is difficult. Many people say that you never feel fully “ready”. And, if you put it off for too long, you could have trouble conceiving. In some ways, there is no “perfect” time to become a parent.
However, having a child isn’t a decision to be taken lightly. While people are often able to make it work, you want to raise your child in the best possible circumstances. Here are some of the factors to consider before deciding to have a child.
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Emotional maturity
Having a child isn’t easy. You become responsible for someone other than yourself and you need to be emotionally mature enough to put their needs first. And what if your child has additional needs? It can be distressing watching your child struggle through life and not have the same opportunities as other children. A child with Cerebral Palsy, for example, may have trouble controlling their movements and will need additional support. Ask yourself this: am I emotionally mature enough to look after a child with a disability or illness?
If you have a child with cerebral palsy, find a Cerebral Palsy lawyer for more information.
Finances
While you don’t need to be a billionaire to have a child, it’s important to feel financially ready. If you’re struggling to get by, you might not be able to afford the things your child needs. A parent should support their child financially and make sure they feel safe. This means putting a roof over their head and food on the table. As your child grows up, they will also want new toys, clothes and school supplies. Are you in a position to financially support someone else?
Living situation
It’s important to think about your living situation before you have a child. You’ll need to be living somewhere warm, safe and with enough space for a growing baby. If you’re sharing an apartment with others, for example, are they going to be OK with sharing their space with a child? Ideally, you want to be in a position where you have your own house or apartment, so your child can feel fully at home. In a rented property, you’ll be worrying about mess and damages. A garden or outdoor space to run around in is great for kids, too.
Career goals
Having a child doesn’t stop you from having a career. However, some people want to ensure they’re at a happy stage in their career before they have children. This means that they can focus on the child and are in a better position to take time off. But this is completely up to you. Plenty of people have raised children while building their empire. Just make sure you consider your career options before having a child.
