Dear Filly,
My family is not supportive of me at all. Everything I do is wrong in their eyes. Sometimes it’s not even that they believe I’m wrong, but more so that I’m not good enough. I proudly explain to them how I have a 3.5 GPA, and their only response is, “But that’s not a 4.0.”
This problem goes beyond just my academic performance. They are constantly criticizing my appearance, my interests, and even my job! Most parents would be happy their child is willing to work so hard and work two part-time jobs while being a full-time student. Instead, my family sees everything I do as a way for me to get out of the house. They actually get mad when I’m out at work and not home doing chores!
Filly, I don’t know what to do. I can’t reason with irrational people, and I certainly can’t rebel if I’m living under their roof. What should I do?
Sincerely,
Anonymous
Dear Anonymous,
It sounds like your family expects a lot of you. And it’s not healthy. You are already under a lot of pressure between school and work, and to have a 3.5 GPA is something that many of your peers can’t boast. The idea that you need to push yourself farther is ridiculous. Doing that can lead to unhealthy stress levels that can cause depression or high anxiety. Those will affect your ability to be able to keep being the great student that you are.
If moving out and getting an apartment on your own or with roommates is an option, that would be a great step towards feeling some weight lift from your shoulders. It can be expensive, but if you find good roommates, it becomes more affordable and gives you independence that you won’t get from living at home. Otherwise, remember to keep pushing forward, and work towards your own goals. Don’t let what your family says affect what you’re doing because it sounds like you’re doing everything right. Good Luck.
Filly
