I hear more often couples around me, that when asked if they plan on having a baby, they answer that they are not ready yet. I smile instantly when I hear these words, I just can't help it.
Obviously, it is up to each individual whether or not s/he wants to have a baby and when. It is their decision and their decision only, and not anyone's place to stick their nose in their business. But if you decide you don't want to have a baby because what I mentioned above, that you're not ready, you should read on.
The big news to you, future parents, is that you will never be prepared for this. Maybe there will be that burning desire, or a moment in time when you think you're ready, but realistically speaking, you will never be completely prepared to become a parent. That's simply because, as it happened to me as well, you never know and cannot imagine how it will be to constantly take care of your little bundle of joy, no matter how many books you read, classes you take, or how much time you spend with other babies.
Believe me when I say this, from my own experience which other parents can confirm. Each baby is different and you will learn from your own how to be a parent. It's one thing to read parenting books or spend a few hours with someone else's baby, and another thing to be non stop with your own baby. And don't you worry, you will make mistakes! We all make mistakes as new parents and even 'old' parents, sometimes on a daily basis! It's important though to love our child unconditionally, to give them support and understanding, even when we feel and are completely exhausted.
Your life will change completely after your baby is born! Your plans will turn upside down, and every action will depend on your little one. However, there is no comparison between life as a parent and the life before. Sure, you will sometimes feel like you're losing your mind, maybe even feel like running away, but even so, you will simply smile more and be so much more determined to live this beautiful life to its fullest.
Parenting is a life long lesson, which you will learn day by day, with your child! You will not wake up one day saying and feeling, "I am now prepared to become a parent!" You will never be, not completely, too many variables and unknowns. But once you do become a parent, each day you will be so proud and enjoy your child's happiness! It is entirely up to you if you want to have a baby now to bring this happiness sooner in your life, or if you will let the fears, worries, insecurities, creep deeper and deeper into your soul, wondering yourself if you will ever be ready to be a parent!
