Celebrating Your Friend’s Baby Announcement—When You’re Unsure About Parenthood Yourself

Being a parent is one of the most wonderful experiences many people will have—but it’s also one of the most stressful. In today’s world, with the rising cost of living, the reality of two people needing to work, and shifting priorities, the idea of starting a family has been delayed or even become unattainable for many.

Maybe you’re still figuring out if parenthood is right for you. Maybe you’ve always imagined having kids but feel uncertain about when—or if—it will happen. Or maybe you’re confident that children aren’t in your future, and that’s okay too. For some, the struggle isn’t about when but if—especially if conceiving hasn’t been easy. If you’ve been trying to have a baby without success, hearing someone else’s joyful announcement can be frustrating, painful, or even unfair.

Regardless of where you stand, one thing remains true: it’s important to show up for your friend who has decided to take this step. Navigating your own emotions while celebrating someone else’s joy can be complicated, but it doesn’t have to take away from the moment. Here are seven ways to genuinely support and celebrate your friend’s baby announcement—without ignoring your own feelings.

1. Acknowledge Your Own Emotions First

It’s okay to have mixed feelings. If your friend’s announcement brings up uncertainty, anxiety, or even sadness about your own path, don’t ignore it. If you’re struggling with your own journey to parenthood, it’s natural to feel frustrated, even jealous. These feelings don’t make you a bad friend; they make you human.

You might also find it helpful to express your emotions—once. Let your friend know that you’re happy for them but that you’ve been struggling with your own feelings around parenthood. A true friend will want to support you as well. Say it, get it off your chest, and then shift into being their cheerleader as they take this journey. After all, friendship is a two-way street, and supporting each other through all of life’s challenges is what truly matters.

2. Celebrate in a Way That Feels Authentic to You

You don’t have to force over-the-top excitement if it doesn’t feel natural. A simple, heartfelt “I’m so happy for you” goes a long way. If big celebrations or baby talk feel overwhelming, find other ways to express your support, like sending a thoughtful message or planning a one-on-one catch-up.

3. Shift the Focus to Your Friendship

A baby announcement can feel like a big shift in your dynamic, but it doesn’t have to change your friendship. Instead of focusing on what’s different, celebrate what’s still the same—your bond, your shared memories, and the fact that you’ll continue to be part of each other’s lives.

4. Give a Meaningful Gift That Feels Personal

If you’re struggling to connect with the idea of parenthood, focus on your connection with your friend. A gift that reflects your friendship—like a handwritten letter about your favorite memories together or something that brings them comfort during pregnancy—can be just as meaningful as traditional baby gifts.

5. Set Boundaries If You Need To

If baby showers and endless baby conversations feel overwhelming, it’s okay to set boundaries. You can still be supportive without immersing yourself in every detail. If you’re dealing with fertility struggles, certain conversations may be painful—recognize that, and give yourself permission to step back when necessary. Find a balance that allows you to celebrate them while protecting your own emotional well-being.

6. Plan a Non-Baby-Related Hangout

Your friend is about to enter a new chapter, but that doesn’t mean they don’t need a break from all things baby-related. Plan a coffee date, a fun night out, or a low-key hangout where you can connect like you always have—without diapers or due dates dominating the conversation.

7. Remember That Everyone’s Timeline Is Different

Comparison is natural, but it’s also unfair to yourself. Just because your friend is taking this step now doesn’t mean you have to be on the same path. Everyone’s journey is different, and there’s no “right” timeline for anything in life. If parenthood is in your future, it will happen when the timing is right for you. And if it’s not? That’s okay too.

At the end of the day, celebrating your friend’s baby announcement doesn’t mean ignoring your own feelings. You can be happy for them while still questioning your own journey—and that’s perfectly okay. The best thing you can do is show up in a way that feels authentic to you—because true friendship isn’t about being in the same stage of life, but about supporting each other through every stage.

And one last thing—this is their moment, not yours. No need to share your personal concerns about having kids, the state of the world, or why you’re unsure about parenthood. Your opinion? Totally irrelevant here. Just bring the love, the good vibes, and maybe a cute onesie if you’re feeling generous.

Love Cass xoxo