Anna Marie | Childfree Life Coach and Community Organizer | Loves spending time outdoors | Decorah, IA USA
Instagram: @coachannaolson
Website: annaolson.com
Podcast: We're Not Kidding
Community: WNK - The Club
PLEASE TELL US A BIT ABOUT WHAT YOU DO/ YOUR PROJECT/ BUSINESS/ ACTIVISM OR SUBJECTS CLOSE TO YOUR HEART RELATED TO THAT.
The pressure to have children can be overwhelming. As a childfree life coach, I help women who are struggling with indecision and doubt. Through our work together they are able to find clarity on what they really want and begin building a life that is Picture by Elizabeth Loberg (Wood Media LLC) aligned with who they are.
Getting to know childfree people across the globe has been truly life-changing. I have made incredible friends all over the world, and my life is so much richer for these connections. I wanted to find a way to bring this connection to others so I started a childfree community called We’re Not Kidding - The Club. It's a virtual space for people without kids to connect and find community, friendship, and support.
Even for those who have known their entire life they never want to become a parent, this path can feel isolating. Especially as peers and family go on to have children of their own. This is why I believe community is so important.
1) THE BEST THING THAT HAPPENED TO YOU IN THE PAST 12 MONTHS?
I was recently approved for a bilateral salpingectomy without any pushback. I’ve heard many accounts of women who are told they are too young, or they might change their minds and the doctor refuses their request. I was so nervous I would be turned away. But my doctor didn’t hesitate to respect my decision. I was so grateful and so relieved. As a childfree woman in a post-Roe era, this feels like the only way to truly have confidence and peace knowing that I can remain childfree.
2) THE WORST THING THAT HAPPENED TO YOU IN THE PAST 12 MONTHS?
The Pandemic amplified problems already present within my family. Continuing to navigate these divisions and find peace in a family that feels forever changed and fragmented has been really tough.
3) YOUR BIGGEST WISH FOR THE NEAR FUTURE?
Election of leaders that will protect people’s autonomy and rights and also take assertive steps towards protecting the environment and mitigating the climate crisis.
4) YOUR BIGGEST WORRY FOR THE NEAR FUTURE?
More steps backward that result in the stalling of a future where all people’s rights are acknowledged, respected, and protected.
5) A CONTEMPORARY WOMAN YOU CURRENTLY ADMIRE?
AOC (Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez) is a powerhouse and so incredibly inspiring. I admire her integrity and passion.
6) A ONE-SENTENCE MESSAGE TO OTHER WOMEN?
The qualities you admire in others are present in yourself; sometimes all it takes is a bit of awareness to bring them forward.
THE WORLD KEEPS CHANGING DRAMATICALLY:
7) HOW ARE YOU COPING?
I’m coping by finding support in community. With all that’s been happening, I’ve learned how important connection and community are. Sharing our fears and worries with others can be quite healing.
8) WHICH CHANGE/ EVENT HAS AFFECTED YOU THE MOST / HAD THE BIGGEST IMPACT ON YOU PERSONALLY? The overturn of Roe v Wade. This has increased my anxiety about whether or not I can truly live the life I want as a childfree woman. I’m very fortunate to have been approved without any hurdles for sterilization.
9) WHAT ARE YOU CONCERNED ABOUT THE MOST?
The women of Iran who are currently fighting for their autonomy and their lives.
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