No kidding!
As someone who has lived through a couple of decades of not being a parent, and having had these conversations with folks who aren’t sure of this decision, these are my perspectives on becoming a parent, or not.
Category: Choices
The illegibility of freedom
The ability to project, and make plans have helped the species to progress. At an individual level, it has had a tremendous impact on how I have lived my life too. I optimised for predictability and efficiency so I could be free, but it turns out that it’s only part of the story.
If it makes me happy…
I tried a deep dive into understanding what would make me happy, and it took me to interesting (and uncomfortable) places. The good news is that I have identified the problem, though I am not yet sure about the solution.
Image and identity
Self image has at least factors affecting it – one’s abilities, and the acknowledgement one seeks. The latter, especially when one understands others don’t see him/her that way. Where does it go from there?
An efficient existence
Around us, the arts and entertainment space is being converted into efficiency machines. What are we losing out on when we optimise for consumption instead of creation?