As lovers, you should have been pondering over things to consider when starting a family because these are actually markers to help you know whether you are standing ready for marriage, let alone starting a family at all. Family is said to be the smallest unit of the society and thus, it is the soul of good governance, orderliness, general progress, etc. Once the soul is corrupted, all the mentioned goals will definitely remain elusive.
Since the family is an important determinant of how far any society can go positively, it is unwise for anyone to believe it is necessary that it should be rushed into, or started even if the necessary facilities, mental, physical, financial, and all are incomplete or mature.
Against this backdrop, couples should be careful and future-conscious enough to know the importance of asking right questions before the suggestion of birthing a family come to their minds. So, the question which is what and what are the things to consider when starting a family are duly answered in the following submissions:
Unity Between Lovers
You both need to speak honestly and openly if you are ready for a child at this particular time. It’s vital to be emotionally ready. You need to consider if you and your significant other feel secure enough in your relationship to become parents.
Ask yourself if you are satisfied with most parts of your life and your relationship—enough to take on this new role? Some hesitation and ambivalence are normal but if you are feeling turmoil, it may mean that this is not the right moment. You may need to figure out what else needs to happen or get resolved.
Financial Capacity
Couples need to really analyze their financial situation and know whether they can afford to have a baby right now. Are you able to afford them? In a few year’s time, they will need to go to school and university even, and it could be a long time before they get a job and start taking care of themselves.
Nowadays, it is quite common for both partners to be involved in different professions as this helps them to manage the necessities of a growing family. To increase your savings, having multiple sources of income is a great idea. By doing so, you can be well prepared to meet medical emergencies or an unfortunate job loss.
Read Also: 10 Importance of Having Good Family Relationship
How Supportive is Your Partner
The first few months with a new baby can be particularly overwhelming, and you may suffer from a lack of proper rest. It would be great to consider which family members and close friends will be available to lend support or babysit when you need help. Like the popular adage says, “It takes a village to raise a child”.
Also, consider employing the services of a nanny or babysitter if you and your partner can afford to. Grandparents or elder siblings may interfere with your parenting decisions or disrespect your choices when you are not present. Hence, a good support system is important to avoid unnecessary challenges with your extended family.
Readiness to Raise Children
Another issue that is related to this one is how raising a child will affect your career. You must be very realistic about this and really give it a lot of consideration. All this depends on whether one or both of you will continue to work, what will be the hours, is their flexibility, maternity/paternity leaves, the possibility and reality of promotions.
The decision to have a child is one that should be taken with careful consideration. There are many things to consider before starting a family. Some of the things to think about are: your mental and emotional readiness, your relationship with your partner, financial stability, and the general health of your body.
