Originally posted by J-hop
Well I think "seasoned" parents often will tell you about their perceived reward but never how hard it was to get that and how much they sacrificed in the process. or even if it was a net positive result in the end. Leaving new parents with a fairy tale view of parenthood.
Maybe it's also just some of these new parents are trying to look important when they say "you have no idea how much work it is". You're right I'm not going to experience it but I think I have a pretty good idea that it is a brutal workload and that helped me make my decision although it certainly wasn't a primary reason
I find this thread fascinating because of all the different perspectives. I appreciate everyone sharing and reminds what a sensitive subject this is and how I should be more cognizant of people's perceptions one way or the other.
I have sort of had the opposite experience from what you described above.
I was under the impression it was going to be a brutal workload and that you would never get a minute to yourself and you won't get to experience the freedoms you had before kids.
I've had mostly positive experiences in the first two years we have had our son, I still get my time for my own activities, I still enjoy playing hockey in my beer league, travelling, etc. But I also get the enhanced experience of having a child and seeing them grow and enjoy life etc. (as I already posted about)
Like many have said, a lot has to do with lifestyle, and the type of person you are, what you find fulfilling in life etc.
Again, fascinating discussion.
These opinions are entirely my own and do not represent any other person or organization.