Biological clock struggle... when to be patient, when do you move on and how?

[Aprana]

Hi! I'm a 37 y/o who really wants to create a family. I've been with my boyfriend for two years. He is 46 y/o, also divorced, no kids either. He also wants kids but it's not as strong of a priority for him as it is for me now (my clock is ticking. And I simple have this strong desire to have a child, I've had it for years).
He and I both have careers in the creative world and it's been challenging these past couple of years. He has been struggling staying in a fulfilling enough job and can't commit to "anything big" (like creating a family or up-grading his living situation) unless he does. We are doing okay materially speaking (it's all relative but we're fine) but there's no certainty whatsoever in our respective endeavors. Nothing is long term right now (no contract, just free lance gigs, one short term thing after the next).
We're in love. Aside from this subject we get along well. We both know we would be great parents together. But he won't do it unless he's got a steady job that he likes okay (no job is perfect, we know). I get it. But I'm also aware that may never happen. We have peculiar careers/interests and the opportunities are limited.
I'm terrified to miss the boat and end up childless (my desire is so strong. I LOVE kids! I work with them and I know they love me too).
I've been pushing him quite hard these past six months. He knows he may lose me. He doesn't want that. But he'd rather lose me than losing himself by potentially giving up his dreams because he has to support a family (he's got an exceptional sense of responsibility. To the point that he limits himself).
Anyone has ever been in this situation? I don't know if I should leave him or be more patient. The idea of leaving him breaks my heart but I know this is what I may have to do. I'm also aware it may take time to find a new partner. Perhaps years!? Eeek! And that I may end up childless anyways. I would love some input and/or support.

He’s 46 ffs. If he isn’t ready for kids now he’ll never be. You have time I would hope but not much. If you wait for him to change, or to meet someone else you might manage one dc but more will be harder. Maybe you need to consider having a child alone, you could be pg within the year in that case.

Sorry to be harsh OP. You're in a bit of a backwater here (newbies corner) maybe try reposting in Relationships if no other responses.

Agree with PP. You plainly want children and your fertility is reducing at a higher rate: past 35 particularly. He's made it clear that his career is more important to him than children with you, which is his prerogative. The ball is in your court. Is he more important to you than having children? It sounds like a no and that it's just wishful thinking on your part (which I entirely understand).
You could do couples counselling but I don't think you'll find out anything you don't already know. I'm sorry.

He don't want kids hunny. Get over it move on and create that beautiful family

Honestly? I was in a v similar boat, same industry, same work set up, similar noises made by partner. We started trying when I was 38. I am now 42 and have a 19 month old with someone who still has no security, still feels he wasn't ready, and is even more frustrated and blue by the limitations a family has placed on time to sort his career out. And as someone who is self employed and as a result had no paid mat leave and had to work through to keep us all afloat, I can honestly say that was the most brutal year of my life.
Result? I am close to being a lone parent, because the feelings someone might have of 'not being ready' don't just disappear once a child arrives, however much you both love that child.
I wish I'd not made the choices I have. And whilst it may feel like time is running out, you are only 37. You have choices, and they aren't as black and white as 'with this partner now' or 'not at all'. X