Are Friends Really Friends? Dealing with Judgment for Choosing to Be Childless

In a society where having children is often seen as a default life choice, deciding not to have kids can sometimes come with a side of judgment from friends and family.
Dealing with Judgment from Others
A woman in a long-term relationship wrote to advice columnist Lizzy Acker, expressing her happiness with her decision to not have children. However, she found herself facing skepticism and condescending remarks from old friends who couldn't seem to accept her contentment.
Understanding Their Perspective
Lizzy suggested that perhaps the friends were experiencing some jealousy - after all, they haven't slept properly in years and might be envious of her freedom. While the decision to have children is a personal one, no one should feel pressured or belittled for choosing a child-free life.
Empowering Yourself
Lizzy encouraged the woman to assert her boundaries and communicate openly with her friends about how their comments make her feel. While dropping friends may be an option, expanding her social circle to include like-minded individuals could also provide much-needed support.
Moving Forward
Ultimately, the key is to prioritize one's happiness and well-being, regardless of societal expectations or peer pressure. Choosing to be childless is a valid and respectable decision that should be respected by friends and loved ones.**