Being a single parent can be a demanding task, yet parenthood is also filled with many joys. Single parenting can be challenging, even with the help of your family and friends, as it may be hard to balance the tasks of providing for your child economically (earning a living) as well emotionally (being there to care for your child). Also, as a single parent, you will most likely have to sacrifice your personal freedom in order to be available to be a parent to your child.
If you think that will most likely be parenting alone (as a single mother), ask yourself if the following would apply to your life:
Yes No Unsure
() () () 1. My baby will give me all the love I need
() () () 2. I will end up being more dependent on other people
() ()
() 3. I am okay with having to rely on others for help and assistance
() () () 4. I realize the costs associated with parenthood and will be able to afford having a child
() () () 5. I have family and friends who will be supportive
() () () 6. I am willing (and OK with) putting school and my career on hold
() () () 7. Having a (another child will only strengthen my family
() () () 8. I have somebody who will always be available to help -- someone I can trust to take care of the baby when I'm at work, school, or sick
() () () 9. I realize (and am OK with the notion) that being a single mother may make it difficult for me to find a future life partner
() () () 10. I am prepared to put my child's need above all others (including my own)
() () () 11. I feel that I am being pressured to keep the baby
