I had the pleasure of speaking with Jennifer Kirk, also known as the “Happy Maverick.” We connected online, and though our life paths are different, we’ve discovered that we share many core values.
Jennifer’s single, child-free lifestyle contrasts with my experience as a mother and wife, but we both believe in one powerful truth: it’s perfectly okay to be exactly who you are.
Meeting Jennifer The Happy Maverick
Jennifer and I met through social media, and I was immediately drawn to her energy and message. Although I have children and she does not, there’s mutual respect between us.
We acknowledge that our paths may differ, but both are valid choices. As Jennifer puts it, “My goal is to really break the single stigma that still exists in our society today.”
She’s 63, single, and child-free, and she’s here to show the world that being single doesn’t mean being lonely or unfulfilled.
Breaking the Single Stigma
During our conversation, Jennifer emphasized how society often portrays single people as sad or incomplete, a perception that couldn’t be further from the truth in her case.
“I’m not living a life that is much different than anybody else’s,” she said. Jennifer shared how her singlehood allowed her to focus on her happiness and well-being, including caring for her 90-year-old mother and taking her on trips that would have been impossible if she had children.
I found myself nodding along because I could see that her love and care were directed differently.
I mentioned my sister, who is also child-free, and how she’s the best aunt and godmother to my children. We agreed that the perception of a lonely, sad single person is outdated, and Jennifer’s life is proof of that.
Finding Herself Through Independence
As Jennifer opened up about her journey, I could sense the peace she’s found in living life on her terms.
Like most women of our generation, Jennifer assumed she would marry and have children.
“I grew up thinking I’d have a wedding and a family,” she admitted. But after years of dating and reflection, she realized that she was happiest being independent.
“I realized I’m not very good at compromise,” she laughed, adding that she values her space and freedom.
Her story resonated with me. While I always wanted children and ended up having them later in life, I could understand the clarity she had about her choices.
Jennifer shared that once she stopped dating and embraced her independence, she truly found happiness. Her decision to focus on her career paid off, as she became successful in sales and even semi-retired at 60.
Career Success and Personal Fulfillment
Jennifer’s journey to financial independence is inspiring. She explained how being single allowed her to devote herself fully to her career.
“I realized I needed to take care of myself financially,” she told me.
With that mindset, she thrived in her career, eventually becoming a top performer in her field. It was another reminder that there are so many ways to build a fulfilling life.
I shared my own experience of balancing work and family, and we discussed how setting goals—whether personal or professional—can lead to a rich and rewarding life, regardless of relationship status.
The Challenges of Motherhood
As a mother, I’ve faced challenges that are uniquely tied to raising children.
I shared with Jennifer some of the more stressful moments, like the many trips to the ER with my accident-prone daughter.
“Parenting is hard, even when you love (the children),” I said. “Why do it if you don’t want to? It’s hard enough when you do.”
I’ve always believed that motherhood is a choice, somewhat of a privilege (as not every woman can have children, even if they want to) and it’s certainly not a requirement.
I love being a mother, but I would never pressure anyone to do it if it’s not something they deeply desire.
Embracing the Empty Nest
As my children have grown, I’ve been able to avoid what some call “empty nest syndrome.”
Jennifer asked if my experience of becoming a mother later in life contributed to that, and I believe it has. I explained that I had already lived a full life before having children, and even after they came into my world, I continued pursuing my career and personal interests.
“I never stopped working or setting goals,” I told her.
Jennifer’s face lit up as she related. “It’s about embracing where you are and finding what you love,” she said.
For her, not having children meant that she never had to go through the process of letting go. For me, raising children while maintaining my sense of self allowed me to navigate their transition to adulthood with relative ease.
The Joy of Being Alone
One thing we both wholeheartedly agreed on was the joy of having time alone.
Jennifer shared how much she loves her space and the freedom to do whatever she wants in her home.
“I’m never lonely,” she said. “I love being at home alone, watching exactly what I want to watch.”
I laughed because, even though I’m happily married, I enjoy those moments of solitude, too.
When my husband Phil is away, I cherish the time to do things on my schedule.
“He likes routine, but I’m happy to work late into the night and eat dinner whenever I feel like it,” I confessed.
Redefining Success and Happiness
What struck me most about Jennifer was her commitment to redefining what happiness looks like.
Her social media presence as “The Happy Maverick” is all about showing the world that being single and child-free at 63 is a valid and fulfilling way to live.
“This is what 63, single, and child-free looks like for me,” she said.
I admire how Jennifer has carved out her version of success and happiness, just as I’ve done in my life. We may have different paths, but we both believe that the most important thing is to live authentically.
You may watch or listen to our conversation on YouTube.
Leave a Reply