Dear Chip,

I have a problem in my life. I feel as though I am stretched super thin over all of the

things I have to cover and do in the leading months. Between my dad being on my

back about school and the personal ambitions I have to get done before this school

year is even over, I feel like I am being stretched beyond my means, but I don’t feel

bad about it. I’m glad that I get to do it. My ambitions are not of a normal person’s but

they are my own and I feel like I should strive for what I believe in and not let people

get in my way. So, Chip, should I let others distract me from my goals and the things I

strive for or should I put my nose to the grind stone and work for myself so I can

accomplish the things I want to accomplish?

Sincerely, Goal Seeker

Dear Goal Seeker,

Parents can suck. When it comes to being understanding and compassionate towards their kids’ dreams. It’s not because they don’t love us, but simply because they think what they want is the best for us. Oftentimes, they fail to realize that our goals are not the same as theirs. I remember there was a time when I was invited to quit the sport I played. It’s not that I didn’t love the sport, but I just didn’t feel the connection I used to have. My parents were not happy, to say the least. But I just wanted to have an ounce of freedom back. It felt great to go home at 3:45 and not have to go to practice. I won’t lie, I missed the sport, but I didn’t miss playing it. For months, my parents tried to convince me to play again. I was so over it because my opinion wasn’t being heard. Once I told my parents that it was getting difficult balancing school and my sport, they understood. They apologized for not realizing it sooner and ultimately agreed with my decision.  I don’t have regrets about quitting. I benefited so much from it. Sometimes taking a different path is better. If you have goals you set for yourself, you owe it to yourself to accomplish them. It’s your life, so it’s your call to make. Your parents are going to support you no matter what. If you don’t follow through on your dreams, you’re going to live such a sad life. Everyone should have the ability to choose what they want for their future. So, just talk to your dad and make him understand that he’s putting a lot of pressure on you. Tell him that you want to focus on achieving your personal goals. Once you do, you’re going to feel much better. Don’t worry, you’ve got this.

Sincerely,

Chip