The choice to have children is inarguably a life transformative decision that a couple can take. It elevates you to being a parent from just an individual, and that’s a lot of responsibilities. It’s important that you discuss or plan your parenthood with your partner before making the transition. Which is why you need to ask yourselves the question, are we ready for a baby? If you can’t decide yet, look for these signs that may help you make the right decision.
1. You Both Itch To Own A Pup
Or any pet for that matter. You are obviously portraying the mother instinct of having the urge to nurture, feed and have some form of responsibility. And you are clearly prepared to part with some cash for pet food and vet bills.
Could this longing for a pet be hiding your need to become a mummy? Is this secretly a test for your other half to see how he deals with it? If you find yourself talking about your pet incessantly, dressing it up, cancelling nights out or rushing home to give your pet a cuddle. Needless to say, it's time for you to have a baby.
2. You Prefer A Night-In To A Night-Out
Yes, it happens! Even to the best of us. The thought of relaxing on your sofa with a pizza and watching some TV is far more appealing then dressing up and going out to paint the town red. This lifestyle shows you are ready for a baby.
3. You Dream Of Babies
If you have dreams of cradling a baby in your arms or a toddler clutching on to your finger, then you’re ready for a baby. This is indicative of your sub-conscious mind yearning for a baby.
4. You Stop And Drool Over Other People’s Babies
If you find other people's whiny and snotty babes cute, then you are most definitely ready for one. If you naturally gravitate towards children and excitedly volunteer to babysit your friend’s kids, then it’s time for you to embrace the fact that you really need to get your own.
5. Your Spare Room Looks Empty And Sad
Isn't it time you started shopping for Willy Wonka wallpapers or for Shrek sheets? Perhaps the spare room deserves to be more than just a storeroom for useless junk. Let it realise its potential!
6. You Have Decided On Your Baby's Name
And you’ve told all your friends so they don’t copy your favourite names.
7. You’ve Had Your Fill Of Exotic Couple Holidays And Travel
Once the baby comes into your lives, you’ll be trading in those long haul flights for family holidays. Hence, if you’ve been to places, you’re less likely to resent the fact that having kids means you’ll have to cap the luxury.
8. You’ve Already Cut Down On Alcohol/Caffeine/Smoking
Since these are things you have to eventually cut down on or give up altogether, it can only be helpful if you have already reduced consumption. If you are thinking about cutting down or giving them up, talk to your general practitioner who can give you the right advice about cutting down or stopping.
RELATED: Doctor's Tips To Quit Smoking!
9. You’ve Both ‘Talked’ About Having Babies
If you’ve had the “talk” and it didn’t end up in him admitting that he never wants babies and you in tears, then you are probably ready. Making the decision to try is going to be scary and nerve-racking - but the good news is, once you do become pregnant, you’ve got nine whole months to get ready for the stork to drop off your bundle of joy.
10. You’ve Sneaked Into A Baby Shop And ‘Pretended’ You’re Buying A Present
If you’re imagining what it feels like to shop for your little one. Wondering what it would be like to dress your baby up, or play with those toys, or put those pretty socks on her? Then yes, you've got it bad. If you find yourself nodding to at least five of the statements above, it’s pretty certain that you are ready for a baby... And we, at theAsianparent would like to see you officially join the community.
Good luck mums-and-dads-to-be!
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