Episode 48: Choosing One, Two, or None And Living With Peace On this episode of A Soulful Mom’s Wisdom, we step into a conversation many think quietly but rarely say out loud: the decision to have zero, one, or two children and the opinions that inevitably follow no matter what you choose. Because the truth is this: every choice invites commentary, but not every voice deserves authority. We begin by unpacking the narratives placed on each path. At zero, you may be labeled selfish, when in reality you’re choosing responsibility and self-awareness over obligation. At one, you may be told your child needs a playmate, or that you shouldn’t have become a parent at all ignoring the reality that every family, environment, and capacity is different. And for those who desire more but are unable, this episode gently reminds us: God does not set children up for failure. Provision comes in many forms. At two, guilt can show up differently wondering if you’ve taken on more than you can truly carry. Ultimately, the question isn’t what others think. It’s this: What can you live with long-term? Will you be haunted by “what ifs,” or grounded in peace knowing you chose with honesty? In the second half of the episode, I share what I’ve learned: lessons rooted in reality, not romanticized motherhood. The most important questions aren’t about numbers, but about support systems. Do you have emotional support during postpartum? Do you have physical and environmental support? We also look ahead. As children grow, what does their care system look like? And then comes the grounding truth we can’t ignore: Children are not accessories or proof of fulfillment. They are full humans hard work, sacred work, who will grow up and either add value to the world or struggle within it. And we play a powerful role in that outcome. This episode is guided by a deep seated truth from Africa O.: "Living in reality versus societal expectations may create short term discomfort but longterm peace. Choose wisely." We close by touching on the science behind clarity and decision-making, how even short bouts of movement can improve executive function, mood, and stress regulation. Because sometimes the answers don’t come from thinking harder, but from moving the body and giving the mind space to breathe. This episode invites you to choose with wisdom, compassion, and self-trust, not fear, pressure, or performance. Episode Highlights • The emotional weight of choosing zero, one, or two children • Reframing “selfishness” as responsibility and discernment • Letting go of guilt tied to fertility, capacity, and comparison • The real support systems parents need emotionally and practically • Viewing children as humans to nurture, not expectations to fulfill • How movement supports clarity, emotional regulation, and decision-making You’re allowed to choose a life that fits the truth of who you are. Peace doesn’t come from pleasing everyone, it comes from living aligned. 🖤 Make sure you explore more health & wellness tips, as well sign up for personal coaching, by visiting my website liveafricao.com! You can also visit me on Instagram and youtube @liveafricao Please, be sure to rate and review this podcast today—it means a lot. And if you ever want to show extra love, you can always buy me a coffee. You are greatly appreciated. Thank you!
