For generations, women have been plagued by social expectations that attempt to limit their liberties—from forcing them into “girly” pursuits and “saving” themselves for a future spouse to humiliating them for exploring their sexuality or fighting for their reproductive rights. However, a significant shift is occurring as more and more women reclaim their autonomy and live on their own terms, independent of traditional expectations.

This inspirational change became increasingly obvious in a Reddit discussion on r/AskWomen, where user u/-Penguin_Anxiety- presented the question, “Women who didn’t follow the social norm of getting married and having kids—what are you doing now?” questioned u/-Penguin_Anxiety-, who emphasized that they, too, are a woman “just looking for some hope as the social norm is not on the cards for” them.

Here are 25 of the more compelling replies that came in:

“I’m halfway to paying off my house, living with my animals, succeeding in my work, and dating someone who may or may not blossom into anything long-term. There are more advantages than disadvantages to my not being married with children (and probably divorced) in my forties.” —Maybe not relevant, but

“It just so happens that not doing those things provides me with the freedom and spare income to pursue a variety of other interests.

I can sleep until whenever, go out on a whim, travel, operate my company, play computer games, and afford to purchase an apartment in the world’s most beautiful city (very prejudiced, but that’s my perspective, hehe). It’s paradise for me, but I have friends who went the other way and are wonderfully thriving in their lifestyles!” — Lumpytuna