Will you accept the unwritten rules in order to succeed?

Source

Would I accept unwritten rules in order to succeed?

Success has multiple dimensions. One of those dimensions is achieving success in one's personal life. The unwritten rule in this regard is that all must, after a certain age, fall in love, get married and have children.

It is expected that we will procreate in order to further the family line. As if we are these rare creatures who face the threat of extinction.

Will I accept this unwritten rule?

My answer is a resounding NO!

I do not want children. Never liked them, never could stand the noise or the mess they make. I have no desire to listen to the demonic "Baby Shark" song 100 times a day, nor do I wish to see chocolate stains on my furniture.

I'm also severely tokophobic, and just the thought of getting pregnant fills me with abject horror. The idea of growing another human being inside my body is nightmare fuel for me.

But most importantly, I do not have the emotional tools that are required for parenthood. Nor would my life goals be able to accommodate a child.

I often hear the common admonishments that society reserves for those who are childless by choice.

"Who will take care of you when you're old?"

Children are not a retirement plan. To have children just so you'd have someone to take care of you in old age is actually quite manipulative.

"You're so selfish!"

Yes. And? You just admitted that you see your kids as a retirement plan.

"You'll change your mind. You'll see"

A lot of people actually regret having children. So.....

"I hope you have children. Then you'll know true happiness."

Why would you wish that on a child? Why would you want children to be born to someone who doesn't want to raise them?

"But....your bloodline!"

What of it? Indira Gandhi's bloodline lives on and look at the state they're in!

Having said all this, I have nothing but the utmost respect for good parents. For those who are able and willing to properly care for their children. For those who raise them to become decent human beings.

I fully acknowledge the fact that parenthood, when done right, is the most difficult job in the world. Which is exactly why it isn't for everyone.

There are many ways of achieving personal success. Having children is but one of them. Happiness is achieved by doing what we want in life, and not by conforming to societal expectations.