Getting ready for marriage
My spouse and I are very busy with work, and we don’t even have enough time for chores and rest. Should we raise a child?
It is essential to recognise the increasing demands of parenthood before you want to raise a child. Parents are expected to provide children with physical needs as well as their emotional needs. It is suggested to think thoroughly before you raise a child.
Firstly, a stable marital relationship is fundamental for nurturing a child. Parents’ behaviours and attitudes can affect a child’s development. If you have unhealthy communication patterns due to poor relationships, you may be putting your child at risk for emulating your poor communication styles. Second, parents require to sacrifice to a certain extent, such as spending your money, time and energy for the child. You may even need to sacrifice "me time", career, and achievement. Before being parents, you should ensure that you possess the above readiness.
Last but not the least, raising a child is a priceless process of nurturing a life. At times, you may be exhausted by life challenges, but that’s not a reason in deciding whether or not to raise a child. On the contrary, your belief about parenting, your readiness for the child (financial, time, energy), and your confidence and determination to face parenting challenges are all factors in deciding whether or not to have a child.
Sources: Ms. Tsang, Social Worker (Family Service), Hong Kong Family Welfare Society
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