Getting ready to start a family may not always be straightforward.

It's always advisable to do a little self examination before going ahead and taking the plunge into parenthood.

Unlike a hobby or a job, you can backtrack, but becoming a parent is something that will change the course of your life for the foreseeable future if not the entirety of your life.

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Here are some signs that can show you if you're ready to be a parent.

1. You are willing to make sacrifices

Being a parent will require you to give up a lot of your comfort for the sake of your child. You have to have the capacity to love selflessly and unconditionally.

Are you willing to give up sleep, comfort, a social life and/or anything that remotely involves self-luxury?

2. You can still take care of yourself

Your child isn't your master. Before you get the baby, ensure that you still have the wherewithal to take care of yourself. Don't let yourself go.

3. You have a support system

Your spouse, friends, family even experts. You must have the people who will lend you a hand because it will get tough.

4. You're financially prepared

You need to make sure you have enough funds set aside for a baby. Their health insurance, any bills, for diapers, baby food, clothes and whatever other expense can come with getting a child. Make sure you can afford it.

5. It feels right

There is always that feeling that you're doing the right thing. It's the same feeling you get when you decide to start a business. Or when you decide to get saved. Or any of those things that feel like a calling. Parenthood is very similar.