My favorite line from Atomic Habits has been living in my head rent-free:
“It doesn’t make sense to continue wanting something if you’re not willing to do what it takes to get it. If you don’t want to live the lifestyle, then release yourself from the desire. To crave the result but not the process is to guarantee disappointment.”
Having kids is a serious responsibility. I don’t think people fully understand that, judging by how casually some approach pregnancy, especially at a young age. Children are not accessories. Being a parent is real life work. It requires sacrifice, selflessness, emotional maturity, financial stability, patience, and a willingness to put someone else’s needs before your own. Raising a child is one of the biggest responsibilities a person can take on.
Please raise your daughters to have hobbies, interests, and academics...so when they become adults and middle-aged women they have something to talk about besides a man.
Major cheat code for life: Become difficult to rush. The world will pressure you to rush into everything. Rushed decisions. Rushed conversations. Rushed relationships. Rushed timelines. There's immense power in rejecting that trend. Slow down. Create space to think clearly.