In this raw and candid solo episode, Christine boldly challenges the societal stigma around choosing to be childfree. She traces the history of childlessness across centuries, unpacking the complex reasons behind fluctuations in birth rates over time. From economics to women's rights and the evolution of marriage, Christine insightfully analyses the many factors at play and urges everyone to tune into their inner wisdom when making this profound life decision, rather than bowing to external pressures. CHRISTINE REVEALS Why she made an early decision not to have kids. The research and reasons behind why many choose to be child-free today. The truth about parenthood and expectations of the past. Why being childfree isn’t a selfish act. Her traumatic experiences with an abusive partner. The importance of your own personal internal support, not just building an external support network. BEST MOMENTS "I am a nice person. I can be a c*nt, but I'm not a vicious, barren one." "Having the external support system is an additional bolster. But when you're rocked by the judgment and ridicule that you will get, being able to fully support yourself on the inside is really important." "Whatever the feeling settles within you as, that's how you decide." "The body identifying the trauma and the emotional suppression inside of us that we don't listen to, or we won't listen to, and how it then gets shown on the body." "If you are someone who's left and recently left and you're questioning yourself or you're asking yourself why you stayed and maybe being negative or mean to yourself, you stayed for loving reasons." EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.forbes.com/sites/traversmark/2023/12/03/2-key-tips-to-own-the-childless-by-choice-trend-by-a-psychologist/    Support Groups for Narcissistic Abuse:  https://www.verywellmind.com/how-to-find-a-narcissistic-abuse-support-group-5271477 ABOUT THE HOST Christine teaches professionals how to communicate clearly and confidently in English using structure, stories and skilful speaking. She specialises in English pronunciation, storytelling and brain-based, cross-cultural communication, using "Culture Active: The Lewis Model." Alongside private coaching, Christine designs workshops and Communication Collectives for small groups. In the Connected Communication Club, she hosts a vault of public speaking and communication content and runs live monthly coaching calls. Christine’s Neurocultural Communication™ concept focuses on the Spiral of Awareness: the Self, the Brain, Language and Culture. Her approach will make you laugh and think, while nurturing natural confidence and communication courage. Communication Club: www.connectedcommunication.club  Website: www.languagecouragecoaching.com  Instagram: www.instagram.com/connected_communication