Parenthood Is Calling: Are You Ready To Meet The Challenge?

by Grace Chen

Let's face it - there's plenty of pressure to have children. For starters, we're hard-wired to procreate. After all, if humans stopped reproducing we would go extinct. So you've got a biological clock that's constantly urging you to make a baby. Add to that demands from family members who are eager for a grandchild, niece, or nephew. Throw in excessive media coverage of glamorous Hollywood families, and it's no wonder that you're itching to produce offspring.

Yet before you take the plunge to parenthood, its important to consider the reality of being a mom or dad. Take a look at the following list of common beliefs and truths about parenting to ensure that you're fully informed of the enormity of your decision.

1. Being a parent is the most fulfilling job you'll ever have. True. It is also one that requires a lifelong commitment. Even when your child turns 18, chances are they'll still depend on you for support, love, and even money. Are you ready to start such a permanent project?
2. Children are a joy. True. They can also be grouchy, angry, stubborn, and exasperating, just like everyone else. As a parent you are often blessed with both the most beautiful and the most terrible moments of your child's life. Are you willing to take the moments of colic, temper tantrums, and teen angst along with the wonderful times you will undoubtedly share?
3. Adding a new member to your family is exciting. True. It will also change your relationship with your partner forever. Those spontaneous romantic getaways will probably get put on hold for a while. The exhaustion of new parenthood is bound to challenge your relationship. Are you and your partner ready to make this change together?
4. Pregnant women and newborn babies are beautiful. True. Yet unless you can afford a personal trainer, private nanny, and housekeeping staff, your life post-baby won't bear much resemblance to the magazine images of the Cruise family. Parenthood is NOT glamorous. Can you handle the idea of changing a dozen diapers each day or being constantly spit up on?
5. All my baby needs is love. False. Giving your child the love it needs is crucial. However, you must also provide food, shelter, and clothing for your little one. Even among the lowest tax bracket of families profiled in the US Department of Agriculture's 2007 report on the cost of raising a child, annual expenses hovered around $8,000. Is your bank account ready for parenthood?

Deciding to have a child is possibly one of the most life-altering choices you can make. Before you commit to parenthood, make sure you're up to the challenge.

Take our fun and easy quiz to instantly find out - Are You Ready for Parenthood?