Why is it so hard to come to terms with “I don’t want kids?”

The idea of having kids repulses me. I hate the idea of being pregnant, giving birth, and the thought of raising a child makes me want to scream and cry. I know I’m not the only one who thinks this way but it feels like a minority view in the real world. <br><br>I have friends who say they don’t want kids but all of them have expressed that it would be better “IF” they settle down with the right person. Almost like “Well I don’t want kids, but if I found the perfect guy and he wants kids then maybe it’ll be worth it” What?? How is that worth it? The idea of being miserable for the rest of my life depresses me to no end. <br><br>I also have friends that have kids and preach that “being a parent is the most rewarding thing you’ll ever do” and “You won’t realize what real love is until you have kids” and that just makes me angry. I love my family, friends, and pets. I love the planet. I love enjoying my job and hobbies. I love just going about my day without worrying and stressing about another being. The idea of giving that up to have kids is insane to me. <br><br>I’ve dated guys who all think they want kids, and I definitely don’t. A few even said they dated women with kids before, but I think they assume I’m just afraid of commitment to them, and they won’t understand I’m not afraid of commitment, I’m just not willing to commit to kids. I simply don’t want to be in a relationship with someone who wants kids. I don’t want to be in a relationship with someone at all. <br><br>It’s just so hard to admit. I know my family and friends will try to convince me otherwise, and I know married couples and people with kids will try to tell me I’m just in a phase and I will eventually change my mind. I won’t. I’m fine. I love my life as it is. I don’t want kids. <br><br>Anyone else in this situation? I just need someone to vent to I guess, Reddit.