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Big ambitions? Score support from Mom and Dad right now

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 YOUR OWN FAMILY FEUD? CLICK HERE to submit your own problem to be answered on Girl Talk!

 

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by Brittany Taylor | 2/1/2016
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