life-changes

Ever found yourself stuck in a life plan that just... doesn’t feel right anymore?

That’s exactly what happened to Kim Hunter-Borst, a healthcare professional who delayed retirement for years because she tied her identity to her work. Recently, she shared her story in a compelling Business Insider article titled I delayed retiring for years. My husband's heart attack taught me we could not take time for granted.

Her “golden handcuffs” — the financial incentives and sense of purpose bound to her job — kept her chained to a demanding career longer than she wanted. But when her husband suffered a heart attack, it shook her world and made her realize that life’s fragility means we truly can’t take time for granted.

This story hit home for me — and maybe it will for you too. It’s a stark reminder that our plans aren’t just about the numbers in our bank accounts or years on a calendar. They’re about what we value, the time we carve out for what matters most.

Why We Delay Our Dreams

Many of us, like Kim, get caught in the cycle of postponing personal goals — whether retirement, starting a family, or pursuing a passion. Why?

• Identity Tied to Work: We let our roles define us, making it scary to step away.
• Financial Security: The fear of losing stability holds us back.
• Uncertainty: Planning for “someday” feels safer than taking a leap now.

But what happens when “someday” suddenly feels urgent or uncertain? That’s the wake-up call Kim experienced, and it’s a situation many can relate to.

The Ripple Effect: Life’s Unpredictability and Fertility Planning

What struck me further is how this story parallels other deeply personal journeys, like fertility. Just as Kim’s husband’s health crisis pushed her to reconsider her timeline, many individuals and couples face unexpected hurdles when trying to conceive.

Whether it’s delaying pregnancy for career reasons or encountering challenges like low sperm motility or medical conditions, life has a way of throwing curveballs.

This is where innovations like MakeAMom’s home insemination kits offer empowering, flexible solutions. Designed to assist people who want to take control of their fertility journey outside traditional clinical settings, their kits provide options tailored for different needs — from low-volume or frozen sperm to conditions like vaginismus.

By bridging medical technology with the comfort of home, they help people reclaim agency at their own pace — a powerful reminder that while we can’t control every twist in life, we can prepare and adapt.

What Can We Learn From Kim’s Story?

Kim’s experience teaches us several valuable lessons:

1. Time Is Precious: Don’t wait to start living your dreams.
2. Health Is Wealth: Prioritize wellness and emotional well-being.
3. Financial Planning Matters: Preparing for unexpected events eases stress.
4. Flexibility Is Key: Embrace solutions that fit your unique life path.

Tips to Take Control of Your Life and Dreams Today

• Reflect on Your Priorities: Are your current plans aligned with what truly matters?
• Create a Flexible Financial Plan: Build buffers and explore options like at-home fertility kits or retirement savings that adapt to change.
• Talk Openly: Share your concerns and goals with loved ones or a support community.
• Seek Resources: Whether it’s fertility support or retirement advice, leverage organizations that empower you.

Final Thoughts

Life is unpredictable — but that doesn’t mean we should be passive. Kim’s story is a powerful reminder that urgency brought on by adversity can lead to clarity and courageous decisions. For those on the fertility path or thinking about retirement and beyond, embracing tools and resources that give you choice and control is vital.

If you’re exploring fertility options, consider how at-home insemination kits from credible sources like MakeAMom could fit into your journey. Their thoughtfully designed, reusable kits with a 67% average success rate highlight how innovation and compassion can go hand-in-hand.

So, what about you? Are you delaying your dreams for the “right” moment, or are you ready to take a bold step today? Share your thoughts or stories in the comments — let’s support each other in living life on our own terms.