Parenting is one of the most difficult jobs that you would come across, one that requires so much patience and tolerance. When you hear the word family, the picture that comes to your head is one with parents and children taking a vacation together or playing outside. However the story of those who have already become parents is far more different than this picture. It’s a constant struggle from waking up to going to bed, physical and mental exhaustion, and a great responsibility. So are you ready to be a parent?
There are a few things that you need to think about yourself before becoming a parent.
1) Financial Stability-
Nurturing a baby nowadays can be very expensive. Therefore the questions you have to ask yourself are:
- Will you be able to provide the baby with the essentials like food, clothes, medicine and vaccines?
- Do you have a steady income that will be able to fulfil the baby’s needs when growing up?
- Are you willing to spend a great portion of your hard-earned money on someone else?
- Are you willing to save up a certain amount of money for someone else’s future well-being?
It is true that becoming financially stable may take many years, especially in a country like Sri Lanka. But if you’re planning to become a parent, you should at least have a solid plan and a way of earning a stable income.
2) Time Management –
Before becoming a parent you’ll have enough free time to watch movies or hang out with friends. Once you become one, you’ll have to say bye-bye to some of the things that you used to do before because it is sometimes very hard to find the right time, so it won’t interfere with the time you spend with kids.
So,
- Are you willing to separate a great amount of your free time for someone else??
- Are you willing to cut down on certain leisure activities so you can spend that time with someone else?
- Are you willing to have less time for yourself?
- Are you willing to go to bed late daily and wake up early to fulfil children’s needs??
- Are you willing to spend time less frequently with friends because of kids??
If the answer is “yes” to all the above questions without any second thoughts, you can say you are ready to be a parent.
3) Relationship Stability
It’s vital to have a trustworthy and committed relationship between mother and father, the two pillars of a family. Otherwise, the family will fall apart.
Traditionally in Sri Lanka, it’s the mother who is responsible for children and house chores. However, nowadays both parents work in most families. Therefore both have to agree to contribute paramountly to the wellbeing of the child.
So you have to ask your partner,
- Are you on good terms with me about raising a child?
- Will you be equally responsible for taking care of the child?
The answer should be “yes”.
4) Social Support
If you’re a working parent, you need a strong support system. This includes a team comprising of grandparents, uncles, aunties and other relatives. So you have to ask yourself :
- Do you have people who are willing to babysit while you’re away?
- Do you have people who have gone through the same experience and are willing to give you advice?
- Do you have people to support you in an emergency?
- Are those people trustworthy and responsible when it comes to taking care of the baby?
- Would the child be safe with them?
If you can find answers to the above questions or those do not apply to you, congratulations!! you are ready to be a parent.
5) Emotional Readiness
Child care is one of the major instances where your patience and tolerance are tested. For a new parent, childbirth can be extremely stressful and depressing. Therefore It’s always better to be prepared early on during pregnancy by learning about what to expect when the baby comes.
So, you need to ask yourself the following questions –
- Are you emotionally ready to have a baby?
- Can you handle stress without yelling and throwing stuff?
- If you feel depressed is there anyone to support you?
- Are you willing to learn how to take care of a child beforehand?
- Are you willing to sacrifice your sleep and meals for someone else?
6) Accommodation
The place where your child will grow has to be safe and spacious. It is something to think twice about even if your home is adequately spacious for all of you in the family.
- Is your place safe to raise a child?
- Is it spacious enough?
- Is the neighbourhood friendly?
- Is there enough play space?
- If your home is not spacious or safe enough, can you afford a new place?
Final Thoughts: Are You Ready to Take the Leap?
Parenthood is a life-changing journey that requires careful thought and preparation. It’s not just about providing food, shelter, and care but about building a foundation of love, security, and stability for your child. As you ponder the financial, emotional, and physical readiness required to become a parent, remember that it’s okay to take your time.
Becoming a parent is not about perfection—it’s about commitment. If you feel confident in your ability to navigate these challenges and answer “yes” to the critical questions above, then you are on the right path. Embrace the adventure with an open heart, and know that while the journey may be tough, it is also one of the most rewarding experiences life has to offer.
Parenthood is not a destination—it’s a lifelong process of learning, growing, and loving. Are you ready to start your story?
