American singer Mary J. Blige has opened up about her decision not to have children, revealing that her choice was largely influenced by what she witnessed while growing up.During a conversation on the Michelle Obama Podcast, the music icon explained that she saw several family members struggle with the demands of raising children. Watching them juggle childcare, responsibilities and personal sacrifices made her decide at a young age that motherhood was not for her.

“When I was younger, I saw my family members struggle raising kids, needing babysitters, not having freedom, so when I was younger I made the choice not to have any kids.”

However, Blige admitted that her feelings have evolved over the years. As she grew older, she began noticing the strong and meaningful relationships her relatives have built with their teenage children, prompting her to wonder what she might have missed.

“But now as I got older and get to see how their teenagers are valuable to them, I sometimes regret not having them early too.”