The Childfree Train

You may have seen my post last week commenting on Jeremy Vine's programme about the declining birth rate and how he proposed this was dealt with (spoiler alert, I didn't agree with his comments). I was, however, pleasantly surprised by everyone that reached out to me or commented, so let's unpick this some more.

It'll come as no surprise to those of you that know me in real life that I identify as someone who is childfree by choice - I always thought that maybe my maternal instinct might kick in (as everyone keeps telling me it will) but I just don't see kids in my future - and that's okay.

I often face pushback from people on this topic:

'Oh you'll change your mind'

'That's so selfish'

'Who's going to look after you when you're older?'

'You'll never know real love if you don't have kids'

'Why do you hate children?'

I'd be here all week if I argued each of these, but my point is that it's an emotionally charged topic where people make far more personal comments than they would about any other life choice.

The reality is that it's stepping away from what society expects of me - I have jumped off the train that's heading toward settling down with kids (other stops include marriage, chasing job promotions and buying big houses) and am on the quieter country line heading for freedom (with frequent diversions to the nearest airport and maybe the local dog shelter!)

Choosing not to have children is only one example, but there are many reasons why somebody might choose to change trains.

It's okay to change direction, even if this means going against the grain.

Where's your train heading?