The historical shift in life-orientation or consciousness amongst China's single-child generation has set the foundation for redefining the meaning of marriage and life satisfaction. Once this process was unleased, China's youth, like youth in other developed countries, questioned whether reproduction and parenting are desirable life goals (Volsche, 2019). This article explores how the structural changes in Chinese society have impacted and contributed to the reshaping of urban youth's idea of what it means to have a fulfilling life. We suggest the hesitation to marry and have a child arises from Chinese millennials’ reconceptualisation of what constitutes a fulfilling life. In seeking a different, albeit more fulfilling life, millennials have redefined their mate selection ideals, expectations of a good marriage, and whether or not to become a parent.