The expectation that women should prioritize motherhood above all else has been a longstanding societal norm. Traditional views often deem it unacceptable for a woman to desire something more than having children. Although perceptions may be gradually shifting, there remains an implicit belief that if a woman values her aspirations beyond motherhood, it does not justify her choice to remain childless. Such attitudes reinforce the idea that a "normal" woman is one who inherently desires both children and personal ambitions.

This perspective, as highlighted in Sigrid Nunez's book "Selfish, Shallow, and Self-Absorbed," illustrates the pressure placed on women to conform to established motherhood ideals. Many women, however, seek fulfillment in various pursuits that can coexist with or even supersede the desire for children. The authors challenge the notion that choosing not to have kids is a selfish act, advocating for broader acceptance of diverse choices women can make about their lives.