Why Waiting to Live Your Dreams Could Cost You More Than You Think

Ever put off what truly matters because ‘there’s always tomorrow’? You’re not alone. Kim Hunter-Borst, a healthcare professional, shared a poignant story in a recent Business Insider article titled I delayed retiring for years. My husband's heart attack taught me we could not take time for granted. Kim clung tightly to her job identity and the golden handcuffs of security, postponing retirement year after year — until a sudden health crisis shook her world upside down. Suddenly, years of “waiting” felt like a thief stealing precious moments from her life and family. It’s a wake-up call that resonates far beyond retirement planning, especially for those dreaming of starting or growing a family.

The Cost of Delay: Not Just Time, But Opportunity

Whether it’s retiring, traveling, or trying to conceive, the narrative many of us live by is “I’ll do it later.” But what happens when “later” is too late? Life has a funny way of surprising us, often when we least expect it. Kim’s husband’s heart attack was a stark reminder: time waits for no one — and neither does fertility.

Here’s the kicker — when it comes to starting a family, biological clocks tick loudly, and delaying can turn hopes into hurdles. If you’ve been thinking, “I’ll start trying next year” or “I need to get my career in order first,” it’s worth pausing to ask: what if life throws you an unexpected curveball? What if ‘waiting’ means missing your window?

Breaking the Stigma: Taking Fertility Into Your Own Hands

Thanks to advances in reproductive technology and shifting cultural norms, taking control of your fertility journey has never been more accessible. The rise of at-home insemination kits exemplifies this empowerment trend, offering privacy, convenience, and cost-effectiveness.

Companies like MakeAMom have revolutionized the game by providing tailored insemination kits — think CryoBaby for frozen sperm, Impregnator for low motility, and BabyMaker for those with specific sensitivities. These reusable kits boast an impressive 67% success rate, giving hopeful parents the freedom to try on their own terms, without the stress of clinical environments or sky-high medical bills.

Imagine trying to conceive without sacrificing your identity, your schedule, or your comfort. Taking that step now, armed with the right tools, can transform “maybe someday” into “why not today?”

Work-Life Balance: The Real Golden Handcuffs

Kim’s story isn’t just about retirement; it’s about how work can sometimes chain us to a life where personal dreams get buried beneath professional responsibilities. For many, the “golden handcuffs” are real: excellent benefits, job security, or fear of change keep them tethered. But at what cost?

If you’re juggling career ambitions with a desire to start a family, you’re part of a much larger conversation happening right now — how to merge these aspects without losing yourself or your dreams. Spoiler alert: there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but there is a way to reclaim control. Whether it’s negotiating flexible work hours, exploring fertility options at home, or prioritizing your health — small choices today can prevent regrets tomorrow.

What Can You Do Right Now?

  • Reflect on your priorities: What have you been putting off? Retirement? Starting a family? Traveling?
  • Take small actionable steps: Consult a fertility expert, or explore home insemination options that fit your lifestyle.
  • Open the dialogue: Talk to your partner, friends, or healthcare providers about your goals and fears.
  • Remember your health matters: Just like Kim’s story reminds us, life is unpredictable — invest in your wellbeing to be ready for whatever comes.

The Big Question: Are You Living Your Life or Delaying It?

Kim Hunter-Borst’s journey is a vivid reminder that waiting for the ‘perfect’ time might just be the biggest risk of all. When it comes to life’s milestones — be it retirement, family, or personal growth — the present moment is where your power lies.

So, what’s holding you back? Is it fear? Financial worries? Doubt? Whatever it is, consider this: the tools, resources, and support systems to help you take charge are here. For those on the path to parenthood, home insemination kits like those from MakeAMom offer a discreet, empowering option to start your journey with confidence and comfort.

Life doesn’t wait, and neither should you. Ready to stop delaying and start living your dreams?

Let’s talk about it — have you ever postponed a major life decision? What changed your mind? Drop your story in the comments and let’s #LiveNow!