In recent years, more couples are making the decision not to have kids. While the choice to not have children is often complex, according to the Harris Poll about 5% of Americans are choosing the DINKs lifestyle. Additionally, according to Pew Research, 57% of adults under 50 who say they’re unlikely to ever have kids say a major reason is they just don’t want to. So, is life better with no kids? Here are 7 reasons why it may be.
1. More Disposable Income
According to the USDA, the cost to raise a child in the United States is $233,610 on average over 18 years. This of course varies by state and income. That being said, having children is a huge financial commitment that may limit other areas of your spending. With no kids, you can prioritize spending on travel and luxuries that you may not be able to afford comfortably with a family.
2. More Freedom
No kids mean more freedom to be spontaneous. You can make last-minute plans with friends or family without planning for childcare. Plus, every day you won’t have to stress about picking kids up from school or daycare. Ultimately, you may find that life with no kids means less responsibility.
3. More Time to Pursue Passions
If you’re focused on your career and pursuing your dreams, you may find that a DINK lifestyle suits your current situation. While it’s possible to juggle work and children, you might not be interested in doing so. According to Pew data, about six-in-ten say not having children makes it easier for them to be successful in their job or career.
4. Deeper Relationships
You may find that a life with no kids allows you to focus on deepening your relationship with your partner. While having children changes a relationship, parenting isn’t for every relationship. Many couples are happier with just their partners and growing together over the years. Additionally, many couples with no kids say that they have more time for social connections and an active social life.
5. More Time for Personal Growth
Not having kids allows you more time for personal growth. You can prioritize self-care, health, and wellness in ways that may be challenging if you have kids. Many parents say that they lose their sense of self after becoming parents. With no kids, you can fully embrace your independence and identity and not be defined by being a parent.
6. More Flexibility when Making Decisions
Many life decisions are altered when you have kids. For example, housing decisions usually change once you have kids. Even future plans and financial decisions like retirement will be influenced by having children. You may not be as comfortable taking risks if you have children.
7. Release from Societal Pressures
Making the decision to not have kids can be liberating and release you from pressures from family, friends, and even yourself to start a family. Women especially feel the pressure of their own biological clock, especially as many women are choosing to have children well into their 30s. If having a family isn’t for you and your partner, definitively making that decision can be freeing.
Are you choosing to have no kids? Share your thoughts in the comments.
Read More
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8 Ways To Keep A Marriage Interesting When You Have No Children
Teri Monroe
Teri Monroe started her career in communications working for local government and nonprofits. Today, she is a freelance finance and lifestyle writer and small business owner. In her spare time, she loves golfing with her husband, taking her dog Milo on long walks, and playing pickleball with friends.
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