Have you ever faced a tough decision about whether or not to have children? Or maybe you know someone who’s gone through it? Kelly Brook, the model and TV personality, has shared her experience of choosing a child-free life, and it hasn’t come without its challenges.
The Emotional Side of Being Child-Free
Kelly, 45, has been very open about her decision to remain childless, alongside her husband Jeremy Parisi, 39.
In a recent interview, she revealed that while she’s at peace with this choice, it hasn’t been without its emotional ups and downs. She explained how the hardest part has been the impact on her friendships.
Many of her friends, who have children, live very different lives, making it harder for her to connect with them as she once did.
“It’s really sad,” Kelly shared, explaining how the dynamics of her friendships have shifted.
“I miss a lot of my old friends who have kids.
When I go out to lunch with them and see them mothering their children, I sometimes feel left out.
I want the attention; I’m their friend, not just someone sitting there watching them parent.”
The Struggles of Trying for Children in the Past
In addition to the loss of friendships, Kelly also opened up about the trauma she experienced in past relationships when it came to trying to have children.
“I had miscarriages and relationships that took a toll on me emotionally and physically,” she said. “It affected my life, my career, and even how I viewed myself.
It made me feel like a failure.” This painful experience, she shared, made her view having children differently, and she never had a positive experience when trying to conceive.
A Life Without Children Brings Freedom
Despite the difficulties, Kelly feels that choosing not to have children has ultimately given her and Jeremy more freedom in their lives.
One major benefit is the ability to travel more easily between LA and the UK. “Not having kids leaves my life open to so many other possibilities,” she reflected.
Kelly also spoke about how being child-free allows her to focus on their “beautiful life” without the stress of fertility treatments or the demands of parenthood.
She mentioned that while she recognizes how much joy children bring to others, she and Jeremy have found happiness without the burden of raising children.
A Shocking Revelation from Her Grandmother
Another key moment in Kelly’s journey came after an eye-opening conversation with her grandmother.
When Kelly asked her if she had any regrets in life, her grandmother’s answer was surprisingly honest.
“Her biggest regret was having children,” Kelly revealed. “I wasn’t expecting it, but I think it had taken up so much of her life.”
This comment had a profound effect on Kelly, especially when she was in her mid-30s and wrestling with the decision to start a family.
Hearing her grandmother’s perspective helped Kelly realize that she could feel fulfilled without having children.
“It made me feel happy about my choice,” she admitted, reflecting on how powerful and honest that conversation was.
Moving Forward with Confidence
While Kelly’s choice isn’t for everyone, she’s found peace in it, and even had other women reach out to her after she spoke about her child-free life on “Loose Women.”
She emphasized that choosing not to have children should not be a taboo topic, and that her decision is one she’s confident in.
“I’m not alone in this,” she said, “and that gives me comfort.”
It’s clear that Kelly’s life, though different from some of her friends, is filled with love, travel, and the freedom to live on her terms.
It’s a reminder that there are many ways to lead a fulfilling life, whether or not children are part of the picture.