Yep, it’s the usual question
We’re very close, and we’re also getting to that age where everyone’s trying to settle in
I think she would be extremely sad if she stayed with me and if we didn’t have kids
But she also says that our relationship is the best she’s ever had and she only wants me
I hate work culture and I don’t want to work until I’m 80 because I have kids, it’s the biggest issue for me. I want to live as frugally as possible. In addition to that I have hobbies and I want my time spent on my hobbies and interests
I don’t know what I’m looking for by posting this, feel free to reply with anything relevant


So many people here telling you to break up, calling it an irreconcilable difference… Reddit moment, I guess?
A couple of things pop into mind:
You think, but would she be? That’s something the two of you have to talk about. Essentially - you both have to know what the two of you want. Don’t be afraid of honest conversations, it’s what relationships often need the most, even if they can get pretty uncomfortable. Maybe she’s not super keen on children, either?
Just because you have kids doesn’t mean you have to work until you’re 80 - but what I understand from that is you don’t want kids unless things are financially stable, which is very reasonable. The question for me is: would you be OK with having kids if it wouldn’t make a difference in terms of your financial situation (or would you maybe even want them then)? Maybe there are solutions to financial issues, and it might be worth addressing them even without the question of kids. Again, something you need to talk with your gf about.
Question is, do you want to live as frugally as possible out of principle or because of a tight budget? If it’s the first, then that could get difficult when it comes to having kids, since it’s something you should avoid imposing on your kids (I’m not saying smother your kids with expenditures, that’s wrong as well - you need to find a proper middle ground). If it’s the second, then as mentioned above, it’s something you should look at more closely, with or without the prospect of kids.
That’s a more difficult one. You will have less time for your hobbies, but there definitely should be some time left for your hobbies and interests (I’m assuming we’re talking about a couple kids at most). And who knows, maybe they’re interests you can share with your kids, depending on if they’re interested? Then you can even use that to bond with your children later on.
The impression I get is that you know neither what you want nor what your gf wants. And that’s something you should change. Talk with each other openly. Explain your concerns. If you’re not sure about what you want, let her know about that. Ask her what she would like, how strong her preferences are, etc… make it clear that not everything has to be solved in one conversation, take as many as you need. A number of short, honest conversations are better than one long winded one. Give things time to cool down. Sleep on things. And maybe continue to make it a recurring thing, even if this topic is resolved. Communication is one of the most important parts in a(ny) relationship.
You also have no clue how that kid will turn out which you need to take into consideration for as well when it comes to finances. Say you have a kid and they are special needs or have medical issues that need to be addressed. Thats not only financially draining, but also more time consuming as well. They also could be ok, but just fall into something bad and thats another decision you need to make because how long do you try to lead them to success before calling it quits? It’s just a lot and if he really is that adamant about not having a kid, then he will most likely have more resentment as the years go on if the kid needs more attention then you even thought they needed to begin with.
I’ve talked to her, I know for a fact she wants children
I certainly know what to want also