Courtesy of Megan Pagel.
- Before Megan Pagel and her husband were parents, they spent their money on going out with friends.
- Now that they have two children, she said they prioritize what their kids need.
- Pagel said she doesn't regret her choices, although she did experience some FOMO around DINKs.
This as-told-to essay is based on a transcribed conversation with Megan Pagel, 24, who lives in Tasmania, Australia, about having children in her early 20s. The following has been edited for length and clarity.