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When asked, “Do your parents support you?” I say, “Sure!” I mean, when I call, they ask how my work is going and they allow me to talk about it for a minute or so. They ask a follow-up question. In general, they are loving and nurturing to me, so that’s a form of support for my overall life. But, when I see a friend whose parents actively share every one of her victories on social media, and send her articles and videos weekly (if not daily) that they think could in some way help her along in her endeavors, and who are there, front row and center, for every event at which she speaks, I’m faced with the slightly sad reality that, oh, maybe my parent’s don’t support me that much. I don’t mean to pity myself. But, I do think if there is anyone else out there whose parents are a bit checked out of your career pursuits, it can be nice to know you’re not alone. Here’s what it’s like having parents who don’t really believe in you.
If you struggle, they suggest you quit
Any time you admit you’re just a little downtrodden or a bit disappointed from a recent setback, rather than telling you, “You’ll be okay” or “You got this!” your parents say, “Well. Maybe this pursuit isn’t for you. Seems like it’s not going well.”
