Choosing to become a parent is one of the most important and impactful decisions one could make. But how on earth do we make such an important decision without really knowing how it'll turn out? In this episode, we discuss what the pros and cons of a child-free life. We also talk about the decision-making process around having children and whether there is any real evidence that becoming a parent is "worth it."

Resources:

• https://ifstudies.org/blog/does-having-children-make-people-happier-in-the-long-run
• Gilbert, D. (2009). Stumbling on happiness. Vintage Canada.
• Fieldsend, M., & Smith, J. A. (2022). Interpersonal dynamics of women in midlife living with involuntary childlessness. Journal of Adult Development, 29(2), 159-170.

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• If you have a loved one with mental or emotional problems, co-host Dr. Kibby McMahon can help. Kibby's coaching program KulaMind offers individual support on demand, skills and resources to help people care for loved ones with mental illness. She only takes a select few clients at a time, so apply here if you're interested. Listeners of the podcast get a special discount! Contact her at kibby@kulamind.com to learn more.

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