How do I overcome caring about my parents opinions/ideas of me?
1 Answers
Moderated by Danielle Johnson, MSED, Community mental Health Counseling, LMHC
Updated: Dec 13, 2021
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LotusFury
on
Jan 28, 2025
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I totally get where you’re coming from. It’s tough to deal with the weight of your parents' opinions, especially when you're trying to figure out who you are.
Here are some ideas that might help:
_See Their Side_
Understand that your parents care about you and their opinions come from a place of love. They want what’s best for you, even if it doesn’t always match up with what you want.
_Know Your Own Values_
Spend some time thinking about what matters most to you. Knowing your own values can help you feel more confident in your decisions, even when your parents disagree.
_Talk It Out_
Have an open, honest conversation with your parents. Share your feelings and why certain things are important to you. Listening to their side can also help bridge the gap.
_Set Boundaries_
It’s okay to set boundaries to protect your mental health. Let your parents know you appreciate their advice, but you also need space to make your own decisions and learn from them.
_Find Other Support_
Sometimes, it’s helpful to talk to someone outside your family, like a friend, mentor, or therapist. They can offer a different perspective and support you.
_Focus on Your Growth_
Concentrate on improving yourself and achieving your goals. Building confidence in your choices can make it easier to stay true to yourself, no matter what others think.
_Be Kind to Yourself_
It’s okay to care about your parents' opinions, but remember that your happiness matters too. Practice self-compassion and remind yourself that it’s alright to follow your own path.
Balancing respect for your parents with staying true to yourself isn’t easy, but with open communication and self-reflection, you can navigate their opinions while being true to who you are.
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