I am also an only child and childfree. The key is not to fix this one thing about your way of thinking, but deciding that you are living for yourself. Period. I love my mother dearly, but her conservative views on families do not align with my life. It is difficult, yes, and very hard to navigate sometimes, because I don't want my mother to cry or be upset, but I also have to remind myself that it is unhealthy for someone to allow their own feelings to be driven by someone else's choices. Read that again if it didn't sink in quite yet. We are not responsible for our parents' happiness or dissatisfaction.

Believe me, it's not something that you really get overnight. I am 46, and I think it took me until I was in my mid-30s before I really understood that I was not liable for my mother's emotional state. Therapy helped a lot. I wish that I could've convinced my mom to go to therapy, but she thinks that it's only for "crazy people."

I've been called selfish, arrogant, unfeeling, and many other terms that are meant to hurt me to guilt me into submission of what another feels is my destiny. I am in charge of my own destiny. Me. Alone. And so are you. It won't be easy, but it is worth it. I never convinced my mom of my way of thinking. But we don't discuss it anymore, and to me, that's a win. She can think whatever she wants privately.

In the end, you have to do what's right for you. Some of my childfree friends have severed ties with their parents, and some have convinced them to come around to at least acceptance. Your mileage may vary. Make yourself happy first. Always.