Welcome the sleepless journey with open arms and limitless love. Photo Source: Freepik.com
- Is joy about the size of your family, or is it about the love within it?
Hey there!
You know, as we grow up, we’re often told that having kids is a big step, marking a new chapter in life.
I used to dream about a big family, imagining a home full of joy and love, like the happy times I had playing with dolls.
But life can throw surprises, making me think: maybe having a one and only child wouldn’t be so bad?
Having an only child isn’t as unusual as it once was. Many young adults are choosing this path, finding fulfilment in smaller families.
But here’s the question: Does having just one child mean we’re missing out on happiness? Is it about the quantity of family members or the quality of relationships?
Let’s take a moment to think about this. In a world full of expectations, it’s okay to rethink what truly makes us happy. Maybe it’s not about the size of our family but the love and connection we share.
The One-Child Fever
“And they lived happily ever after and had a child.“ Photo Source: Bestromssk
I’ve been reflecting a lot recently on the idea of starting a family and whether having children aligns with my aspirations. And you know what? The more I think about it, the more I lean towards having just that one and only child.
You see, for me, having one child would offer a sense of balance and freedom. It’s about being realistic and acknowledging that adding another child could bring about additional responsibilities and challenges.
With a single child, I believe I could focus more on providing quality time, experiences, and support without feeling overwhelmed by the demands of a larger family.
Moreover, considering the career path I aspire to pursue, having one child would allow me to devote ample time and energy to both my professional endeavours and parenthood. It’s about creating a harmonious lifestyle where I can excel in my career while still cherishing the joys of motherhood.
Looking at my own family, I’ve observed that my aunt, who chose to have just one child, seems to have found a wonderful balance in her life. She’s able to prioritise her child’s needs while also pursuing her own passions and interests, which is truly inspiring.
I believe it’s essential to normalise the idea that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to family planning. Each of us has unique circumstances, goals, and capacities, and it’s perfectly okay to choose a path that aligns with our individual capabilities and aspirations. Ultimately, it’s about finding what works best for us and embracing that decision with confidence and joy.
Selfish Allegations
One thing that bothers me is how parents of only children often face unfair judgments. People sometimes label them as “selfish” without understanding the complexities behind their decisions. Parenting is challenging enough without dealing with unnecessary negativity.
However, what if there’s more to the story? What if there are valid reasons behind the decision to have just one child? Perhaps there are health concerns, financial considerations, or simply a desire to ensure the best possible upbringing for their child without spreading themselves too thin.
Instead of rushing to judgment and using the “selfish” label, it’s essential for others to empathise with parents’ perspectives. Every family has its unique circumstances and challenges, and what works for one may not be suitable for another.
It’s perfectly acceptable for parents to prioritise their child’s well-being and their own mental and emotional health over societal expectations of having multiple children. It’s about creating a loving and harmonious family environment that suits their individual needs and circumstances.
Who Will You Grow Up With?
Who needs a sister when you can choose your partner in crime? Photo Source: Ranker.com
As a child, you’ve probably faced countless questions about being an only child: “Who will you grow up with?” or “Do you ever feel lonely at home?” These questions can sometimes make you wonder if you’re missing out on a significant part of life.
Many people believe that having siblings creates a unique bond, a connection where you can share frustrations about parents or find support during difficult times. I personally experienced the positive impact of having siblings—they played a crucial role in shaping my childhood and teaching me valuable life lessons. So, I understand why some might have concerns about being an only child.
However, my friend Morgane offers a different perspective. She didn’t have siblings, but she found companionship and learned critical social skills through interactions with cousins and friends. She also mastered the art of finding joy in solitude, a skill many adults struggle with. In her own way, she’s thriving.
Reflecting on Morgane’s experience, I’ve come to realise that having siblings isn’t a prerequisite for a happy childhood or a fulfilling adult life.
What truly matters is how we cultivate our relationships, embrace our experiences, and find happiness in everyday moments.
So whether you have siblings or not, remember this: your happiness is within your control. Focus on what brings you joy and cherish the connections you have, whether they’re with family, friends, or even with yourself.
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