Since you're single, do you worry this decision could affect any future relationships you may have?

"In past relationships, it’s never quite been a problem, though it's probably because of my age. Most early-twentysomething men aren’t jumping for joy at the idea of having children anytime soon. So, at least for the moment, we are on the same page. I do imagine it will be a larger tension point in my future relationships as I get older, and the person I’m with starts seriously discussing the potential of having a family." Do you think society has created a stigma around women who don’t want children? Would you say this notion is becoming more acceptable or common?

"To a certain extent, yes. There is a stigma that if you are a woman and 'capable,' why wouldn’t you choose to have children? It’s stigmatized as 'selfish,' as if society has partial ownership over your biological function of childbearing. I think it is more common for women to question whether they want children or not, but it still throws people off a little when she claims to be absolutely certain in her decision." What is the most interesting or offensive reaction you’ve received?

"Definitely people telling me, 'It’s just a phase.' However, I think the more interesting reactions come from those who are not surprised at all when I tell them. And then, ironically, sometimes I am offended by their lack of surprise!" Why do you think more women than ever are opting out of having children?

"I think the simple fact that society now labels it more often as a choice, rather than an assumption, makes it a bit more liberating. But, honestly, it’s an extremely personal decision, and it’s hard to say why women — as one large group — are opting out. I don’t think any woman decides not to have children based on one isolated reason." Are there any women — with or without children — you particularly admire?

"There is not a particular woman I admire simply due to her status of being a mother or not. However, for some reason, I still remember reading an article that came out at the end of last year regarding Cameron Diaz’s decision on motherhood. I feel like she captured the choice well in saying, 'Not having a baby might really make things easier, but that doesn't make it an easy decision. I like protecting people, but I was never drawn to being a mother.' That quote resonated with my own personal decision. "People assume that choosing not to be a mother is a careless decision, when really, it requires some serious self-reflection and honesty about who you are and what you want out of life. I love protecting others, and family is extremely important to me. I just don’t think having children is the only way to have a family and loved ones in your life. I very much look forward to the moments when close friends and family members will begin having kids. I’ll definitely be the 'cool aunt' who spoils them...and then drops them back off to their parents!" Do you think there is anything that would ever change your mind?

"If the right person came along, I would maybe consider it — but a lot of things would have to be aligned. If I’m inching towards marriage, then I would obviously have to have the 'kids' talk with the man I’m dating. If I know for sure that he is okay being 'Mr. Mom,' and taking on a lot of the duties that some men may not be as fond of, I would maybe change my mind. He would have to be fully committed to the idea of raising children and the idea that I would not slow down my career. Ultimately, a true 50/50 partnership in raising a family would have to be on the table, before I would consider having children. But, it’s so hard to say, because I definitely haven’t met Prince Charming yet...and he’d have to be really charming to sway a decision like that."