“Oh…well, you’ll change your mind eventually.”

You’re totally right. Maybe someday I will change my mind and decide that I do want children. But if I’m telling you that I never wish to have children right now, that response will and should offend me. Not wanting children makes me no less of a woman or a good person. Believe it or not, it is a person’s individual choice whether or not they want children in the present or future. So stop telling me I will change my mind, and start telling me it’s OK if I don’t.

1. I like my independence.

When I see a mother in public who is struggling with toddlers and crying babies, I instantly know that is not the life for me. I don’t want my life to revolve around soccer practices and dance recitals. When you have children, you are no longer living for just yourself. For anyone who thinks it sounds selfish not to want children for this reason, you may be right. But as a lover of my independence, I really don’t care what you think.

2. I plan on having a demanding career.

When I leave college, my number one goal is to find a job that makes me happy and content with working hard every day. This motivated lifestyle does not include children. I shouldn’t have to feel bad for loving what I do and wanting to move forward with it. I may not have time to come home and cook dinner while helping with homework.

3. It’s not for me.

I never grew up playing house and tending to baby dolls. I never dreamed of being a housewife or a stay-at-home mom. Even at my current age, I never get emotional over cute baby clothes, and I’m definitely not excited about holding babies because, frankly, I just don’t like them. Someday I might be the most awesome, loving aunt in the world, but having a little one of my own doesn’t appeal to me in the slightest.

4. I have a serious case of wanderlust.

Along with having a successful career, I’d rather spend my money on seeing the world and experiencing exciting things. I don’t want to buy diapers and stay home with my children. Seeing as much of the world as I can sounds much better than being stuck in a suburban neighborhood for the rest of my days.

Having children is not for everyone. If you don’t see yourself giving up your independence and changing your lifestyle overnight, then it’s OK to stay childless. Yes, you may find the love of your life, find a career and decide you want to start a family. But for now, if you feel that isn’t part of your future, don’t let someone tell you it should be. If and when you decide to have children, make sure it’s your decision and nobody else’s.