Became a parent mid-30s and I cannot agree more. I didn’t feel old right away, but my first child is somewhat special-needs and it feels like parenting him has aged me 20 years in the past 7. This is a special case, but even with a ‘normal’ kid it’s still true.
The #1 thing I would tell any young person who would listen is that if you want them, finish having children by like 27. I know for most people, that represents a gamble (that you’ll be able to achieve financial stability in the future), but it’s a safer bet than betting that ‘future you’ will be better equipped in all of the non-money ways. Spoiler: older you is worse equipped in most ways. You might have more wisdom to impart, but the children won’t listen to you anyway so that’s moot.
>> The #1 thing I would tell any young person who would listen is that if you want them, finish having children by like 27
Unless one is from a wealthy family, following this advice basically means to give up a career.
Being a mom without a career is being insecure, it could end up in abusive relationship.
Anyone can end up in an abusive relationship, not just women. Choose well, indeed. And choose a career which offers generous benefits.
Also, I know women who work in tech who did that advice and are fine. They make high enough salaries to afford good daycare (or it is provided onsite).