Good day, my name is Gu Daoxi Fengshou Shou'ou.
I empathize with the questioner's situation and wish I could offer them a hug.
It is understandable that parents may be limited by their own growth experiences and the way they were brought up. They may also be used to adopting a demeaning and controlling communication style. This is not necessarily wrong, but it does not mean that the questioner is wrong either.
The questioner is approaching 40 years old, a time when one's social circle is widening. Parents, on the other hand, are getting older and approaching the age of loss, when friends and careers are gradually dwindling. It is only natural to hope that children will listen to them, follow their wishes, and keep them company.
People who have experienced significant challenges may initially find it challenging to fully comprehend the anxieties of contemporary individuals. They may perceive such concerns as somewhat exaggerated. For instance, at the end of last year, a colleague of mine sustained a broken arm. His supervisor advised him to first complete all his work and then seek medical attention. He maintained that it was not a major issue. When I broke my arm that year, I followed a similar approach.
It's possible that the parents of the questioner may not fully empathize with their child's situation. This could be attributed to their own life experiences.
It would be beneficial for you to learn about mental health, but it wasn't a popular topic during the era when your parents were living. It's understandable that they may not have had the same level of awareness. When a person's thinking becomes fixed, it can be challenging for them to accept new knowledge. Learning often requires a significant investment of time and effort.
Parents often express their love for their children in ways that are comfortable for them, but they may not always consider whether their children want or need that love in the same way. For example, when it comes to unemployment, parents may mean well when they say it's okay to lose a job and find a new one, but the words they use can sometimes be hurtful.
When faced with challenging circumstances, it's natural to feel overwhelmed. It can be difficult to process our emotions when we're surrounded by loved ones, who may have different perspectives and ways of supporting us. It's important to remember that everyone handles challenges in their own way, and it's okay to seek guidance and support from those around us.
It can be helpful to try to separate the issues and distinguish between what your parents' opinions are and what the reality is that you have to face. It's important to remember that parents are not always right, especially parents with fixed ways of thinking.
It might be helpful to recognize that you are already independent. You may find it beneficial to remind yourself, even if your parents don't fully acknowledge it, that you have grown up and have the ability to think independently. It could be valuable to trust your own judgment and act courageously.
It may be helpful to recognize the limitations of your parents and consider responding to their comments and demands in a way that is respectful and firm, even if it is difficult to speak up the first time. With time and effort, your parents may gradually adapt, and the relationship may enter a new balance.
It might be helpful to consider your parents' actions in light of their words. Some people may not learn to speak kindly throughout their lives, and while they may be sharp-tongued, they may also be soft-hearted.
It might be helpful to focus on the actions rather than the language, as this could help the questioner feel more positive.
Parents are the authority and guardians of their children. We will always be children in our parents' hearts. As we acknowledge our children's independence, we may find ourselves acknowledging our own aging process or experiencing a shift in our sense of control over our children. This can sometimes lead to feelings of loneliness. When our children are unwilling to face this transition, they may turn to blame others.
It might be helpful to try to love yourself. As it says in "5% Change," it's not your fault that you were traumatized, but it is your responsibility to recover.
You might like to consider telling yourself that the future is still long, that you want to be the master of your own destiny, and that you should say no to your parents' unreasonable ways.
There are many ways to change. The questioner might also consider keeping an emotional diary, reading psychology books, seeking help from a psychological counselor, a listening therapist, a heart exploration coach for one-on-one chat (not a counselor), and so on. I believe there are many ways to find a path that suits you.
You might find it helpful to read the following books: The Courage to Be Disliked, 5% Change, When You Start Loving Yourself, the World Will Love You Back, and Living a Life You Don't Control.
I wish you the best!
Comments
I can understand how frustrating and hurtful it feels to be misunderstood by your parents, especially at this stage in life. It's important for them to recognize you as an adult with your own perspectives and challenges. I hope they can see the value in your independence soon.
It sounds like you're going through a really tough time emotionally. Your feelings are valid, and it's okay to want acknowledgment from your parents. Maybe there's a way to have a calm conversation about setting healthier boundaries and expressing what you need from them.
The lack of support and understanding from your parents must be incredibly painful. It's clear that you're seeking validation and empathy. Consider reaching out to a counselor or therapist who can provide professional support and help you navigate these complex family dynamics.
It's heartbreaking that your parents dismiss your concerns so easily. Sometimes, people don't change their ways unless confronted with the impact of their actions. You might find strength in connecting with others who share similar experiences or joining support groups where you can feel understood and less alone.
Feeling unseen and unappreciated by those closest to you is one of the hardest things to endure. While it's not fair, focusing on selfcare and building a support network outside of your family could be beneficial. Remember, your worth isn't determined by your parents' approval.