Top Ten Things I Can Do Because I Chose Zero Kids
Having reached a point in my life where I can look back on a significant amount of my adulthood and reflect on the benefits being childfree has afforded me, here are my personal Top Ten Things I Can Do Because I Chose Zero Kids:
1. Pursue an Unconventional Career. Choosing not to have children has given me the freedom to explore an unconventional career path without worrying about how my vocation will affect a family life. My professional life has been dictated solely by my interests and ambitions. I can take risks and embrace opportunities that might be more challenging to manage with parenting responsibilities.
2. Travel on a Whim. Without the constraints of school schedules, extracurricular activities, or childcare logistics, I have the luxury of spontaneous travel without needing to plan around a child's needs. (I still have to think about Dale, though!) This freedom allows me to experience different cultures, cuisines, and adventures on my terms, enriching my life in ways that a traditional family schedule might not allow, at least not as easily.
3. Invest in Personal Growth. Being childfree has provided me with ample time to focus on personal development. Whether it’s picking up new skills, engaging in self-improvement activities, or dedicating time to hobbies, I can invest in myself — and I can do it without worrying that I’m shortchanging anyone else in my life.
4. Prioritize Financial Freedom. Having zero kids significantly impacts my financial landscape. I can allocate resources toward personal investments rather than child-related expenses. Having savings not only gives me financial security but also gives me opportunities to treat myself with spontaneous splurges that would be harder to justify with the added costs of raising children.
5. Cultivate Deep Relationships. Without the demands of parenting, I have more time and energy than I would otherwise to cultivate and nurture relationships that are important to me. Although my friends with children also have deep, meaningful relationships with friends, family, and partners, many of them confess that a large part (if not all) of those relationships center around children and caretaking, with less time dedicated to personal interests outside of parenting. I don’t risk losing myself the way that can sometimes happen to parents, especially mothers. Instead, I can invest in friendships, engage in quality time with loved ones, and build a support network that reflects who I am as an individual.
6. Maintain a Flexible Lifestyle. My daily routine and choices are highly adaptable, because my schedule is entirely my own. This flexibility allows me to live in the moment and make decisions based on my preferences and needs without the need to coordinate with a family.
7. Focus on Health and Wellness. With the freedom to prioritize my own health and well-being, I can dedicate time to exercise, healthy eating, and mental health practices. This focus on health allows me to lead a balanced and fulfilling life, addressing both physical and emotional well-being on my own terms.
8. Engage in Community and Volunteer Work. Without the constraints of parenting, I am able to engage extensively in my volunteer work. I can commit time and energy to causes I am passionate about, making a tangible impact in areas that matter to me and fulfilling me in a number of important ways.
9. Embrace Spontaneity. The freedom to be spontaneous is one of the most liberating aspects of choosing a childfree life. I have always hated being beholden to a rigid schedule, and I deeply value the freedom to pivot from whatever I’m doing at a moment’s notice.
10. Experience a Different Kind of Legacy. Choosing zero kids allows me to leave a legacy in my own unique way. Through mentorship, creating impactful work, and contributing to causes I care about, I am building a legacy that is crafted according to my individual goals, values, and passions.
