WE ARE CHILDFREE

I’m confidently childfree by choice. While I got married in my mid-20s, I never felt that pull toward motherhood that everyone said would come.

After my divorce at 34, I was initially panicked at the idea of never having children. For a while, I felt the pressure of starting over, partnering with someone new, and the timeline that would have to follow before I’d be able to realistically have children. My biological clock was definitely ticking, even though I didn’t necessarily want a baby.

But then I had this moment of clarity – I could completely reimagine my life outside society’s traditional script. The decision crystallized when I realized my passion lies in creating transformative travel experiences. I left my 14-year career in higher education at age 38 to start my own boutique travel company, something that would have been nearly impossible with children. This wasn’t just about freedom to travel – it was about having the space to pour myself into helping others experience personal growth through cultural immersion.

Being childfree has allowed me to create impact in unexpected ways. I lead small group trips that often attract other childfree women seeking meaningful connection. We teach English to kids in the Sahara Desert, share meals in local homes, and forge lasting friendships. It’s made me realize how many of us are out here and the common thread that we share.

For me, being childfree isn’t about what I’m giving up – it’s about what I’m choosing. I’m choosing to mother differently, by creating spaces where women can discover themselves and make a positive impact on the communities we visit. My legacy won’t be children, but rather the ripple effect of transformative experiences I’ve helped facilitate worldwide.