In my experience, having kids has had the dual benefits of making my days purposeful and fulfilling, and also more appreciative of idle time. The mind does not do well with the extremes of unlimited idleness or unlimited work. Turns out the rhythm of child-raising can fit the perfect middle ground between work and idleness, and has the advantage of creating a more meaningful cumulative product than either realm. That balance of time is especially true if you're financially independent or have family willing to help during the first year or two of a new baby.
