I¹m going into high school next year, and my parents told
me I should start thinking about what I wanted to do as a career. No problem,
right? I started reading up on different jobs, and I¹m interested in a lot of
different things, like screenwriting and politics. I told my parents about what
I liked, but they totally shot me down! How can I get them to support me?
The best thing about your parents, friends and teachers is
that they can form an incredible support system as you follow your dreams. I’m
sure your parents want to be supportive
of your goals and ambitions, but sometimes they need a talking-to to get them
to realize just how unsupportive they’re being.
Understand their reaction
Chances are they’re shooting down your career interests
because they know how hard it is to break into desirable fields like
screenwriting and politics. It’s not because they think you’re dumb or you could
never write a script or be a politician. It’s because they don’t want to see
you get your hopes up on a career that’s difficult to launch.
Tell them how you feel
I know, I know. We’re big on daughter-parent convos here at
GL. But that’s because they work, we promise! Sit your parents down after
dinner and tell them how you’re feeling about the way they reacted to your list
of possible careers. Explain that you know
these are difficult fields, and that your heart isn’t set on any of them just
yet—you simply want to know more about them. And if you decide to try for a job
in a difficult industry in the future, you really want them to support you no
matter what.
Keep on lookin’
Just ‘cause Mom and Dad aren’t big fans of The List just yet
doesn’t mean you should toss out your ideas and start fresh. But you’ve got
years and years ahead of you to figure out just what it is you want to do. Keep
your eyes open for jobs that sound interesting, unusual, challenging or fun.
You can explore new careers by holding internships or shadowing professionals
during your time in high school and college. And remember: It’s never to late
(or too early) to try something new. Whether or not you have the support of
your friends or family, you should always follow your heart and your mind, and
do what feels right.
Good luck, girlie!
GOT
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BY BRITTANY TAYLOR ON 8/12/2011 12:00:00 AM
POSTED IN family, problems with my parents, how to talk to parents, On the Job