Childless | It Is One In Five Now

After 6 IUI’s, 3 IVF’s, ten thousands of dollars, relationship challenges, and being really close to a depression. It was enough… Quitting was my act of self-love. Trust me, that was the hardest decision of my life! And now we’re entering a whole new phase… what does life look like being childless?

Despite all the reasons to stay silent, I choose to speak up… Not because I’m looking for sympathy or pity.. But because I know that opening up these honest yet sensitive conversations will benefit so many people around me..

I’m on a mission to raise awareness around childlessness so that together we can help change the conversation… and make sure that unsolicited advice turns into support… real support that leaves us feeling empowered and a little less lonely in this incredibly challenging journey…

Transcript

Thank you for being here.

My name is Rianna,

I'm a serial entrepreneur,

Full-time traveler,

Happily married,

And childless,

Not by choice.

A couple of months ago,

I attended a 4-day seminar with incredible speakers.

The seminar was amazing,

But there was one part that left me feeling really uncomfortable.

The speakers kept using parenting examples and talking about being a role model for your children in a room of 2000 people.

At first I thought I was overreacting,

But then I noticed that in every small breakout room of 5 people I was,

There were always 2 or 3 who were childless,

Not by choice.

Which not only made me feel that I wasn't the only one struggling,

But also,

Wake up people,

It's 1 in 5 who are childless now.

It was tough to swallow my tears every time phrases like,

It's easy to become a parent but hard to raise a child,

Or things like that were said from the stage.

It's not that easy for everyone,

And we need to be more aware of that.

What really hit me hard was when one of the speakers mentioned the importance of building generational wealth and creating a legacy that can benefit your children and grandchildren.

They talked about how the choices we make today can have a ripple effect on future generations and how we have the power to shape our family's financial future.

Then it suddenly dawned on me that actually it stops with me.

I know,

I know,

There are so many more ways I can impact the world,

Create a legacy and leave a positive mark,

But still,

It freaking hurts.

So please,

Let's be kind and mindful of those who are struggling with infertility and childlessness,

And let's work towards creating a world where everyone's visions and contributions are valued,

Regardless of their family status.

Thank you for listening.

I'm here to remind you that your journey is valid,

Your emotions are valid and that you're not alone.

You can follow me for more talks on living this unexpected life.

Reviews

I remember when I first started working, one of the women I worked closely with was struggling trying to conceive. She was wildly successful in sales- no one at work- but me- knew how badly she wanted a baby and the pain she was in. I remember when she conceived and how happy she was. Shortly after, she miscarried. I clearly remember others thinking she was a power hungry, money driven career woman. Nothing could’ve been further from the truth.

Sadly she never was able to have her own baby, she adopted a young child. Later, she became divorced. I can’t imagine the strain this puts on a relationship. Her daughter now is in her late 20’s. As far as I know she adopted only 1 child.

So much time has passed- but I was really shocked at the judgment and perceptions of others toward my coworker.

I think this issue needs to be brought out like you are doing. There is so much stigma on childless women-couples.

I appreciate your raw authenticity. Peace be with you.

Lovely wrapped up, thank you so much and yeeess we are not alone 🫶🏾🙏🏼