Families For Life | 8 Questions to Ask Yourself to Know If You're Ready for a Baby
So the wedding bells have stopped a-pealing, and you’re back from your honeymoon. Are you now asking yourself if you’re now ready for a baby and planning for a babymoon?
It’s a great question to have, because while parenthood is rewarding, it is certainly not a decision to be made lightly.
Ask yourself these 8 questions and be honest - they’ll help you think through this huge step in your life!
1. Do I really want children?
This simple question will lead your thought process. There’s no undoing your decision, so you’ll want to be absolutely honest with yourself. Whether you said "yes" or "no", parenthood is a journey unique to you and your spouse, and there is no right or wrong decision.
2. Is my spouse on the same page as me with regards to having children?
If your spouse is against the idea of having a baby, you should respect his or her views and keep discussions open and ongoing. It’s crucial for both parents to be fully onboard and aligned with having a baby, because parenthood is anything but easy. If it’s a yes for both of you, that’s great news because you’ll be a strong team!
3. Will having a baby affect my health?
It’s going to be exhausting to care for a baby, especially in the early years, so you’ll want to be sure you can handle the exertion physically, mentally, and emotionally. And it’s a marathon, because you’ll need to be healthy to watch your little one grow up over the years!
4. Who will take care of the baby?
Working mums in Singapore are entitled to 16 weeks of paid maternity leave, while working dads have 2 weeks of paid paternity leave. After that, you can probably explore different childcare alternatives and talior a schedule that best works for your family.
5. Am I financially able to support a baby?
Ah, you knew this was coming. From pre-natal check-ups to the birth to the supplies you’ll need, having a baby in Singapore doesn’t come cheap (although there are some hacks to help you reduce costs!).What are some small steps you can start to plan for the financial responsibilities ahead?
6. How will having a baby affect my career or aspirations?
Depending on the situation, you may find yourself shifting or re-prioritising goals, or hit the pause button on your career when you have a baby. You can also explore new routines with your spouse to manage household responsibilties and better support each other in the longer run.
7. Do I have any support from family?
You know what they say about needing a village to bring up a child. Ask yourself if you have a support network in the form of your own parents or relatives, to step in for you if other commitments inevitably clash with your duties as a parent.
8. Am I ready to give up some aspects of my freedom?
In the early years of being a parent, it can often feel like your life has changed completely. You may no longer be able to carve out the same amount of time for yourself, your friends, or other family members. Of course, a different lifestyle and change of commitments do not mean that things can't be fulfilling and exciting for you everyday. Get ready for a new journey and trust the process!