All of the activities I’m involved in cost a lot of
money. I love doing them, but I feel bad about making my parents pay for my
fun.
Right now, I do youth and government, dance, summer camps
and maybe a summer college intensive that would cost a couple thousand dollars.
We can afford it, but my mom gets stressed out whenever I ask to join anything,
and I have to think about college, too.
I feel selfish. What should I do?
Money matters are always tricky, babe, and there’s really no
quick fix for your sitch…unless you wanted to ditch the guilt now by saying
buh-bye to your extracurrics. There are a couple of ways to ease the way you’re
feeling.
Talk to your parents
You’re a young adult, and while you might not be 100-percent
independent, you need to start figuring out now how money and budgeting works
so that you won’t run into trouble when you’re on your own. Tell your ‘rents
that you want to talk about your summer activities. Don’t simply let the
conversation drop when they tell you not to feel guilty. Ask if your fam really
can afford it, and if you can do anything to help pay for your activities.
Maybe Mom would appreciate some help around the house or a night out with your
Dad while you sit for your sibs.
Prioritize your activities
As you grow up, you’re going to have to make choices. If you
really love dance, maybe you could increase the number of dance classes you
take over the summer and drop summer camp. Maybe you should drop youth and
government and run for student council. Take a closer look at the clubs your school
offers and local programs at your library or community center and see if you
can find some free or low-cost activities that’ll keep you busy without
breaking the bank.
Make sacrifices
If you’re still feelin’ the guilt, it might be time to
stomach some sacrifices in your everyday life. Consider asking for dance
classes or club fees as birthday and holiday gifts. And think about getting a
job. Maybe you could teach classes to younger students at your dance studio, or
take up babysitting or dog walking after school. Be creative and really ask
yourself if you really want to do what
your parents are paying for. How much would you give up to keep doing it?
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BY BRITTANY TAYLOR ON 3/16/2011 4:10:00 PM
POSTED IN family, working parent, Make more money