I’m not really imposing this on anyone else just voicing my thoughts on how I may choose differently given second chance. I’m happily married so know the pros and cons. Fact of it is I was never gunning for marriage. I dated my wife for a very long time and she eventually gave me an ultimatum. I didn’t want to leave her so I married her. That said I think it’s the best decision I’ve ever made. However, it’s challenging because I’m also selfish and want to focus on myself and my interests way more than couple stuff. Fact is I don’t need any of that stuff you listed. I make plenty of money, I don’t give a shit what my family or friends think, I really sometimes wish I had the resources I have now without the responsibilities that come with wife, kid, family. It’s probably the definition of mid life crisis.

I’m thankful to be happily married. I know a lot of people in similar situations but not happy and refuse to put their kid through a broken home or they don’t want to lose half or the social/family shame part. It seems miserable.