light mode dark mode

I'm 16 years old and have been feeling scared and afraid of growing up for the past two months. What should I do?

teenage anxiety adult transition pandemic impact childhood nostalgia low self-esteem
readership6138 favorite39 forward9
I'm 16 years old and have been feeling scared and afraid of growing up for the past two months. What should I do? By Anonymous | Published on December 18, 2024

I'm 16 years old this year, and in the last two months I've suddenly felt fear. The thought that I'll become an adult in two years has made me anxious and restless every day.

I'm really scared. I was only 14 when the pandemic started. Why has time passed so quickly? I still remember how happy I was when my parents and I went out together in 2019. I'm really scared that such happy times will never return.

I still feel like a child and dare not go out alone because I don't know the way. And I'm a weak person with low self-esteem, so I can't even refuse when I'm approached by salespeople in the supermarket.

The thought of growing up and becoming an adult makes me feel like I simply can't go on living. I can't live outside the home. What should I do? I really cry every day, and although I know it's pointless, I'm still scared.

Christopher Christopher A total of 3200 people have been helped

Hello, I get it—growing up can be scary!

First of all, congratulations on being a child who is not lacking in love. Not every child is so lucky. Your parents have protected you well, so you are afraid of exploring the outside world on your own.

It's true that growing up is a natural process, and it can happen without us even realizing it. Can you remember what you were like in kindergarten?

If I could go back in time, I'd be amazed at what I did. What I said and did back then seems childish today, but you're not a child anymore. You're a teenager.

A lot of what seemed difficult at the time is now within your reach.

Secondly, congratulations on being a thoughtful child. You may think you are inferior and cowardly, but that is not the case. The fact that you are willing to come to the platform for help shows great courage and wisdom.

Not everyone has the courage or the idea to come to the platform for help. Most people just deal with problems as they come up, without really thinking about it.

Thinking means having more ideas for solving problems, just like the questions you asked today, which will give you lots of different ideas from before.

If you can recognize a problem, you can find a solution. It's true that the pandemic has slowed things down a bit over the past two years, with fewer chances to go out and less activity overall.

But this is something everyone is experiencing, and in these respects, we are all the same. There's no need to rush your growth. You're still a child who has not yet grown up. But whether you like it or not, you will gradually mature, just like going from kindergarten to high school. What was once unthinkable will slowly become a reality. With your thinking and the support of your parents, I believe that your journey to adulthood will be wonderful!

The future is still ahead of us, so let's focus on the present. I wish you all the best for the future!

Helpful to meHelpful to me 867
disapprovedisapprove0
Seth Seth A total of 941 people have been helped

When I read your content, I immediately thought of the song "Don't Want to Grow Up." I'd say being a minor is probably the most carefree time in life.

However, anxiety and fear of the unknown are issues that everyone has to face at some point in their lives. After all, we never know what the future holds.

The first step to overcoming fear is to accept that you are afraid.

If you chat with people your age, you'll find plenty who feel the same way.

If you talk to adults, you'll find that they're also afraid.

The second thing to do is to build your self-confidence.

You say you feel inferior and weak, and that you're afraid you won't be able to survive if you leave home.

You're only 16, so you've got plenty of time before you leave home and live independently. You can put off this kind of anxiety for a few years, for example until you're about to graduate from university.

You'll meet lots of new classmates, take part in lots of club activities, and learn lots of new skills and knowledge. But if you don't have a strong sense of self-confidence, you'll still feel anxious.

Everyone has different personality traits. Even if you're a super introvert or even a social phobic, you have your own value and meaning, and you'll find your place in society. Ask yourself: What are your strengths? What are your interests and hobbies? And what kind of person do you want to be?

It doesn't matter if you don't have all the skills you need right now. As long as you have a goal and a direction, you'll find meaning and motivation in your work.

Third, once you've figured it out, just go for it.

You should have lots of ideas about your future. You've been worrying about it since you were 16. If you figure it out and find a direction, just take action.

Every step you take will help you feel a little less afraid and anxious, and your heart will feel a little more at ease. Over time, as you keep working on yourself and improving, you'll become more confident and stronger.

Best of luck!

Helpful to meHelpful to me 37
disapprovedisapprove0
Diana Louise O'Connor Diana Louise O'Connor A total of 3357 people have been helped

Hello, question asker.

Please accept my embrace, my dear child. I hope you are feeling better now.

I wonder if I might ask your advice on how to overcome a fear of growing up?

Could you please tell me what happened to make you fear adulthood?

It seems to me that many children are eager to grow up quickly so that they can gain more independence and autonomy in their lives.

If I might humbly offer my perspective, the fear of growing up seems to be akin to the fear of growing old. This includes a sense of uncertainty about the future and, I believe, a part of our innate fear of death.

I have been experiencing a sense of unease over the past two months, coinciding with my sixteenth birthday.

Could you please tell me what might have happened in the last two months or before that might have caused this sudden feeling of fear?

It is generally understood that our emotions do not arise without reason. Apart from physiological changes, there must be triggering events or changes in life over a period of time that set them off.

It might be helpful for the questioner to take a moment to reflect on their recent experiences. Perhaps there have been some changes or events in their life that have caused them to feel afraid, or they may have witnessed something or interacted with someone that has triggered this feeling.

I must admit that the thought of becoming an adult in two years makes me feel somewhat anxious and uneasy. I must say that I am a little scared.

I was only 14 when the pandemic started. It's surprising how quickly time has passed. I still remember how happy I was when my parents and I went out together in 2019. I'm a little afraid that such times will never return.

I wonder if, during the pandemic, apart from not being able to hang out with your parents as usual, there has been any difference in your relationship with them. How has the pandemic affected your lives?

Could you kindly share whether there have been any physical changes in you from the age of 14 to the present age of 16?

I still feel like I'm not quite ready to venture out on my own, as I'm not yet familiar with the area. I tend to be a bit reserved and have low self-esteem, so I sometimes hesitate to decline when approached by salespeople in the supermarket.

Before the pandemic, did you often go out alone? Did you usually go to the supermarket with your parents, or did you sometimes go alone?

The pandemic has undoubtedly changed everyone's pace of life and habits. This is true for you at the age of 14, your parents, me, and everyone else. It has a greater impact on those in the epicenter of the pandemic. This may be an inevitable trend in social development or natural development, or it may be due to other reasons. In any case, it has actually happened to us, to all humans on the entire planet. We may not be able to change it or escape it, but we can accept it.

Growing up from 14 to 16 is an important stage in your life. It's possible that, had there been no pandemic, your growing up process might have also brought you similar confusion or pain. You might find it helpful to learn some knowledge about your adolescence to better understand yourself, so that maybe you will no longer be afraid of growing up. You might like to try it!

I must admit that the thought of growing up and becoming an adult makes me feel somewhat overwhelmed. I am not sure I can live without my family. I really do cry every day.

I'd like to give you another hug, my dear child. I know that growing up can be challenging, but it's also an exciting time of learning and self-discovery. You're now ready to start trying out some new things on your own and challenging yourself without your parents' help. Take it slow and steady, so that you can gradually build the skills you need to live independently as an adult. If you can do a little bit, give yourself a well-deserved pat on the back. And don't hesitate to ask your parents for help and guidance when you need it.

I believe that, just as no one is perfect from birth, we all learn through trial and error.

We respectfully suggest that you read Nick Vujicic's "Life Without Limits" to gain insight into how he, as a born dolphin man, has lived a wonderful life.

If you feel you are not yet ready to take action, that is perfectly understandable. You can always turn to your parents or other trusted adults for guidance and support. For now, focus on the tasks and responsibilities that come with your current stage of life. Tomorrow will bring its own challenges, and you can start preparing for them today.

If something has happened recently in your life that you would like to talk about, you might find it helpful to speak with your mother or father, or another trusted adult. You can also visit the Yixinli platform to find a counselor or psychologist who can provide guidance and support during this challenging period.

I hope you will grow up happy.

I am a counselor, Happy Niu-new. I hope the world and I can help you in any way we can.

Helpful to meHelpful to me 795
disapprovedisapprove0
Rachel Anne King Rachel Anne King A total of 1854 people have been helped

You indicated that you are 16 years of age and have experienced a sudden onset of fear over the past two months. Based on your description, it is evident that you are experiencing feelings of fear, anxiety, and unease. You expressed concern that the happy times of going out for a trip with your parents will never return, that you still feel like a child, and that you are afraid to go out alone because you don't know the way.

You perceive yourself as lacking in strength and self-esteem, and are fearful of refusing sales pitches in supermarkets. You believe that you cannot survive if you transition from childhood to adulthood.

I believe that your primary objective is to maintain a relationship with your parents. This is why you are experiencing fear, anxiety, and unease. You wish to retain the status of a child while still enjoying the benefits of their protection.

Secondly, the aforementioned emotions are being used to offset the excitement, joy, and enthusiasm associated with becoming an adult. Becoming an adult signifies the ability to break away from parental control and no longer adhere to their every directive.

However, these feelings of excitement, joy, and enthusiasm may lead to the perception that you are wrong, that you will abandon your parents, and that you will break their hearts. Therefore, it is necessary to use fear, anxiety, and unease to counteract the excitement in your subconscious mind and avoid punishment.

Third, you are identifying with your parents' anxiety about separation. Parents may experience feelings of abandonment when their children become independent, leading to concerns about their continued need or dependence on their children.

You have accurately identified the subconscious mind of your parents and aligned with their feelings of separation, which is why you are exhibiting such a high level of fear, anxiety, and unease.

What steps can be taken to reduce fear and anxiety?

First and foremost, it is essential to gain an understanding of your own emotions and feelings.

Secondly, it would be beneficial to alter your perspective. The process of growing up and leaving the family home are not mutually exclusive.

In conclusion, it is important to gradually adapt and reinforce your inner resilience. Begin with the minor aspects of your daily routine and progressively develop the ability to make independent decisions, assume responsibility, and accept the outcomes of your actions.

Should you require assistance in coping with the aforementioned issues, we recommend seeking the guidance of a qualified counselor.

I hope you will gain the strength you need to face reality.

I wish you the best of luck.

Helpful to meHelpful to me 697
disapprovedisapprove0
Daphne King Daphne King A total of 3365 people have been helped

Dear question asker,

I can relate to your feelings, as I experienced something similar during my own junior high school years. When I look at you, I see a reflection of myself from that time.

I would like to suggest that this is a very normal phenomenon. It is something that we all experience on the road to adulthood, and once we have overcome it, we grow up and become independent.

From a psychological perspective, it could be argued that an inability to deal with real-life problems is an important reason why we are afraid to grow up.

Erikson initially put forth the notion of a "psychosocial dilemma." This concept can be understood as the inherent contradictions between an individual's personal struggles and the demands of social reality.

It is thought that if an individual can successfully resolve these two conflicts, then they will develop healthily. Conversely, if an individual is unable to resolve these two conflicts, then it may affect them and could potentially lead to various problems.

Erikson's theory of the eight stages of life suggests that the age of fourteen is a crucial period for the completion of self-identity, including the formation of one's ideals and aspirations. It is possible that individuals who successfully navigate this stage may experience reduced anxiety.

There are a number of reasons why some children may be reluctant to embrace the responsibilities and challenges of adulthood.

1. These children are sensitive and have low self-esteem, and they lack mental energy, so they may be prone to fearing growing up and resisting it. They may believe that when they grow up, they will have to take responsibility and face complex interpersonal relationships that they cannot handle on their own, etc.

This may be why they are reluctant to grow up.

2. It is not uncommon to experience a certain level of apprehension when contemplating the prospect of growing up. This is often due to the perception that it entails a loss of certain aspects of one's life, an increase in external pressures, and the assumption of greater responsibilities. It is understandable that, at this stage of life, one might feel less prepared than others to navigate these changes. Additionally, external influences, such as media portrayals, can contribute to a sense of unease about the transition to adulthood.

It is understandable that some people may feel afraid of growing up for a number of reasons. These can include a strong attachment to childhood, a fear of taking on responsibility, or a sense of frustration during the transitional period of growing up, which can lead to a lack of confidence and courage. However, it is important to remember that everyone must go through an adaptation process when growing up and that it is natural to need time to build up confidence and courage. Growth is inevitable, so it is better to relax and accept this reality, and focus on doing the things you should do well.

It could be said that it is similar to other natural laws such as birth, aging, illness and death, which are also unavoidable.

It would be beneficial for every teenager to understand that growing up is an essential and unavoidable process in life. Having the courage and determination not to be afraid of setbacks, facing the current difficulties, being bold in practice, and being brave in taking responsibility will help you get through this special stage.

It's natural to feel afraid when facing new challenges. Many of us have experienced this, and it's perfectly normal. If you're feeling this way, try accepting the fear. It's important to acknowledge your feelings without judging yourself for having them. Then, focus on doing your best in your studies and work.

As you gain more knowledge and experience, you will gradually become more confident. From my own experience, I would say that there is no need to be overly concerned about the future. It is only natural for our minds to play tricks on us sometimes. There is no reason to be afraid of being unable to survive if you leave home. It is simply a matter of perspective.

It is also worth noting that there is currently no evidence to suggest that one cannot live without leaving home and leaving their parents. Therefore, it may be helpful to avoid any unnecessary fears in this regard.

I wish you the best.

Helpful to meHelpful to me 801
disapprovedisapprove0
Claire Elizabeth Burgess Claire Elizabeth Burgess A total of 8827 people have been helped

Hello!

I'm a heart exploration coach, and I believe learning is the body's greatest treasure.

From what you've said, I can tell you're feeling a lot of pressure and anxiety.

You're afraid of the challenges that come with adulthood. I won't go into detail here, but I have three pieces of advice for you:

First, I suggest you try to accept your situation.

It'll help you feel a bit more at ease and give you a clearer idea of what you need to do next.

You said you're 16 and in the past two months you've been feeling afraid of being neglected, that time is passing too quickly, and that in two years you'll be an adult, worrying that you'll find it hard to live as one, and that you can't leave home. Your concerns are understandable because many people feel the same way: the adult world will be full of pressure and difficulties without their parents' support and they'll feel they can't cope. You also said you have low self-esteem and are cowardly, which will make you worry even more. So you have to try to accept your current state and "see" that anxious self inside you who is full of fear and feels like a child and can't bear the life after becoming an adult. This will give you extra mental energy to think about other things, otherwise your mind will be filled with all kinds of negative emotions.

It's also important to accept your current situation if you want to make changes. It might seem a bit contradictory, but it's true that change is based on allowing for no change.

Secondly, I suggest you take a step back and look at things rationally.

Rational thinking can help you understand yourself and reality better.

To look at it rationally, there are two things you need to do:

First, it's important to understand that parental love for their children ultimately leads to "separation."

Put another way, when parents educate and love their children, they ultimately have to let them go. Of course, by "let them go," I don't mean cutting off ties, but rather, each person living their own life.

As a child, you have to learn to take care of yourself and grow up independently. This is the ultimate goal of parental education and also taking responsibility for your own life.

It's important to remember that your parents are still there for you, and so is your birth family. You need to take responsibility for yourself.

Secondly, try to see yourself from a developmental perspective.

Maybe it'll help you see that every kid has to grow up eventually. You might still be worried and afraid that you won't be able to face the uncertainties of the adult world. At this time, you need to learn to view yourself with a developmental perspective, which means that you realize that you still have time and energy to improve and perfect yourself.

As you mentioned, you feel inferior and cowardly, but these are all things that can be changed. You can let yourself grow by taking the initiative. You have to see the power of time.

You've got to see the advantages in yourself. Don't say you don't have them. That's not true. Everyone has them, and you're no exception. I can see from your description that you're not a bad speaker. The fact that you've come here for help shows that you're motivated. So you see, you have many advantages. You just need to believe in your abilities.

If you look at it rationally like this, some of the negative emotions inside you may be resolved.

I'd like to suggest that you focus on yourself for a moment and think about what you can do to make yourself feel better.

When you take a step back and look at the situation rationally, you may also be able to see what you need to do. At this point, you focus on yourself and do your best.

For instance, when you acknowledge your strengths and accept your weaknesses, you can also make conscious decisions to improve yourself. This can help reduce feelings of worry and fear.

You can also have a good, honest chat with your parents about your thoughts (list out your worries as an adult), talk to them about your fears of becoming an adult, and they will most likely encourage you and tell you that they love you and that you will have happy times together in the future. Plus, such open communication will also make you feel better, because once negative emotions start flowing, they will have a healing effect.

You can also talk to good friends around you who are the same age as you. They may or may not share your concerns. At this time, you may find that you are not alone, and that adulthood is not that scary, because the thoughts and actions of the people around you will affect you, and you will find strength in them. In short, you must know that you can do something to improve the current situation.

When you start taking action, you'll naturally start to feel better because taking action is sometimes the best way to deal with negative emotions.

I hope my answer helps. If you want to talk more, just click "Find a coach to interpret – online conversation" at the bottom, and I'll chat with you one-on-one.

Helpful to meHelpful to me 693
disapprovedisapprove0
Finley Young Finley Young A total of 1536 people have been helped

There's a song called "Don't Want to Grow Up" that might suit you.

The lyrics go like this:

Why can't I find a rose that doesn't wither? Why aren't the princes I meet princes enough?

I don't expect him to have glass slippers or a white horse. I'm surprised that sweet nothings can turn into lies.

Why does happiness have to fly so high? Why can hugs be poison?

I never thought being alone with him would be scary. I suddenly remembered the doll that used to keep me company.

I don't want to grow up because there'll be no more fairy tales.

I don't want to grow up. I'd rather stay stupid and silly forever.

I don't want to grow up and lose him.

My love has changed.

I don't want to grow up. There are no more fairy tales.

I don't want to grow up.

I don't want to grow up because I'll lose him.

How could he fall in love with someone else?

Why can't I see him change in the crystal ball? Why is the ending sad?

I'll wait until he comes back, but he's already gone to kiss someone else.

Why don't wishes on shooting stars come true? Why are valiant knights more dangerous than dragons?

The world is not perfect. I just hope love isn't complicated.

I don't want to grow up because then there will be no more fairy tales.

I don't want to grow up.

I don't want to grow up because I'll lose him.

He loves me. How could he love someone else?

Let's go back to the past. Naive, stupid, happy, and beautiful.

I don't want to grow up because there'll be no more fairy tales.

I don't want to grow up. I'd rather stay stupid.

Helpful to meHelpful to me 621
disapprovedisapprove0
Averil Pearl Montgomery Averil Pearl Montgomery A total of 6119 people have been helped

Good evening!

From your writing, I can tell that you're a very sweet child with a particularly gentle heart. You're still a child, but you've already started to plan for your future 10 years from now. I know it can make you feel anxious, but it's still a plan, and I want to give you a big thumbs up!

You're doing so many things that other kids your age don't think about. It's great that you're aware of the risks, so that you can avoid making mistakes.

Oh, my dear, before the epidemic, you were only 14 years old. But now, why have you suddenly turned 16? Why will you be an adult and turn 18 in two years?

Oh, my sweet child, where has all the time gone? Why has it gone so fast?

You're still a child, so why do you have to face life alone all of a sudden?

Oh, sweetheart, why is this so?

I can see these questions swirling around in your head. It's totally normal to feel confused, frightened, and anxious.

It's totally normal to feel this way. We all worry about things like this sometimes. It's natural to feel like you're not ready to face the world on your own. But you know what? You will be. And you'll be ready when you're ready. And when you are, you'll be excited to go out and explore the world.

If you're not quite ready yet, then just wait a few more years and give your parents a few more years to care for you. They'll be there for you and they won't rush to push you out into society.

Ten years from now, when you've graduated from university and experienced university life and your first taste of social life, your perspective will have changed. I truly believe that by then, your fear will have disappeared.

So, now please relax, take a deep breath, and tell yourself to stop the panic in your little head. You've got this! Focus your energy on studying hard, and your life will be perfect!

I love you!

Helpful to meHelpful to me 296
disapprovedisapprove0
Jedidiah Jedidiah A total of 7360 people have been helped

From your description, I can sense your inner anxiety and restlessness. It's understandable to feel this way. Take a moment to give yourself a break. You don't need to be perfect or achieve anything in particular. I believe that everything will be fine.

It's worth noting that even adults can feel uncertain about what to do or say in certain situations. They may not always show it, but they likely have a sense of what's appropriate.

You mentioned that you're afraid to go out because you're unsure of the way. Could I ask what you're afraid of?

It's also normal to feel unsure about how to respond to sales pitches in the supermarket. It's natural to feel pressured when you're faced with someone who is similar in age to your parents or elders. However, it's important to remember that you and this person are simply customers. You have the option to purchase their products if you like them, or to decline them directly if you don't.

Could it be that your fear is rooted in a lack of confidence in yourself?

It might be the case that you have some lack of self-confidence and self-doubt, and that you are afraid of growing up. It may be that you don't think you are good enough, and that you lack guidance, help, and comfort.

When we don't approve of ourselves, we may experience feelings of distress, frustration, and depression, which can lead to feelings of anxiety. However, this is a natural part of the growth process, and with time and practice, we can learn to navigate these feelings in a healthier way.

First, it's important to remember that setbacks are just part of the journey. Don't be too hard on yourself. Second, try to see things as they are, without overinterpreting them. Finally, learn to accept yourself, warts and all.

I appreciate your trust and I'm confident that everything will be fine.

Helpful to meHelpful to me 107
disapprovedisapprove0
Genevieve Genevieve A total of 2702 people have been helped

I'm Mo. Thanks for asking.

You are only 16 years old, not yet an adult, still a child, protected. If you don't want to grow up, then allow yourself to stay at home for a few more years. When you are ready, leave home and start your own life. You will feel scared, so give yourself a buffer, maybe 3 years, maybe 5 years, maybe 10 years. Even after 10 years, you will only be 26 years old, the age when a graduate student has just graduated, which is also very young. So you have to believe that home will always be your safe haven, and you can stay there as long as you want, until you are ready to leave home. If you don't want to grow up, just let yourself stay young forever.

You are a lovely child. Every child who doesn't want to grow up is lovely, innocent, and kind. However, you are also full of anxiety and fear of society. You are kind at heart and without deceit or ulterior motives, so you are afraid of being hurt by society. I have a few thoughts. I am certain you will feel something.

1. We accept that we don't want to grow up.

You say you cry every day because you spent your 14-16 years under the pandemic. You miss your youth, feel like you didn't spend it well, and have regrets. So you want to stay in this period of time. It's okay. We allow ourselves to always be a child, accept the idea that we don't want to grow up. This idea is not unique to you; many people will think this way. We are protected at home before we are ready, and when we are ready, we will leave home.

2. We change.

You have to believe that right now you don't want to grow up and are full of fear of society. But you will. You just have to experience some things and let time pass. If you don't want to grow up, just allow yourself to be a child. One day, perhaps you will want to leave home and start your own life. So, we will slowly change, just going with the flow. For now, let's just do the things of the moment and feel ourselves change little by little. And you know what? That's also very happy.

3. Do the things you need to do.

We have been living under the epidemic for 3 years, and I know it won't last forever. We can enjoy the present moment. Every day of our lives is a day that we can't go back to, so we must seize the day and enjoy our youth. We should study when we should study, play when we should play, read when we have time, chat with our classmates, talk about our happiness and unhappiness, and share our lives with others. That's how we'll be happy.

You can always be a child, and you should believe that society is lovely. Your loveliness and the loveliness of society will make you feel that your youth is wonderful and that you are happy in society. This is a wonderful society. You need to feel the passage of time and your own gradual changes. You are becoming better and better, and the world and I love you.

Helpful to meHelpful to me 992
disapprovedisapprove0
Ernest Ernest A total of 5019 people have been helped

Good morning! I extend my best wishes to you from a distance with a warm embrace.

It is important to acknowledge your awareness of the challenges you face as you grow older. This awareness is an essential first step in initiating positive change.

It is important to acknowledge and understand the underlying needs that may be causing these uncomfortable emotions. For instance, the desire to be accepted, affirmed, recognized, listened to, comforted, accompanied, understood, supported, respected, encouraged, and the fear of being alienated, rejected, or unloved. If the process of getting along with these emotions is causing distress, you can try to relieve the intensity of your emotions by taking deep breaths, which will help you to better experience and feel your emotions.

It is important to note that the fear, unease, and anxiety you describe are common among many peers. As children experience rapid physical development, parents often believe that their children have reached an age where they no longer require their support and love. This can result in parents unintentionally neglecting their children in various ways, becoming insensitive, and inadvertently limiting their children's autonomy. As children progress in their cognitive, thinking, and developmental abilities, they may desire to quickly escape from their parents' control and independently make choices and decisions for their lives. However, their mental development and maturity may not yet be sufficient to match their physical sense of adulthood. Consequently, children may experience panic, unease, and a longing for their parents to continue providing support, acceptance, and understanding.

Given your clear perception of your inner feelings of insecurity and fear of not being loved, you may wish to consider a frank and sincere discussion with your parents about your true feelings and needs. It is important to ensure that your parents are not misled by your outward sense of adulthood and do not mistakenly believe that you have truly "grown up" and no longer require their company, listening, support, and affirmation.

Additionally, forming friendships with peers is an effective way to fulfill the desire and willingness to be accepted, understood, accompanied, comforted, and listened to. Particularly, there may be certain topics and secrets unique to this age that you are reluctant to share with your parents. However, you can do so with peers and friends of the opposite sex, as these are common concerns and worries, increasing the likelihood of understanding, acceptance, and support. This can also help you avoid the frustration, anxiety, fear, and loneliness that may arise when you try to escape your parents' control and pursue independence.

Additionally, maintaining an emotional diary is an effective method for recording current emotional states in a structured format. This approach facilitates enhanced emotional perception, experience, and expression, enabling a more nuanced understanding of one's emotions and the underlying needs they represent. This, in turn, allows for more effective responses and better alignment with one's needs.

It is also important for you to try to learn to accept yourself better and cultivate self-confidence. One way to do this is to make a list of your self-acceptance strengths.

It is possible to identify shortcomings and deficiencies, as well as strengths and positive attributes. One way to enhance self-confidence and self-worth is to maintain a gratitude journal.

Outside of your professional commitments, it is beneficial to cultivate interests and passions to enrich your personal life.

During adolescence, emotional separation from family members is a common experience that contributes to an individual's internal maturity and growth. This process requires gradual exploration and adaptation from both children and parents. The pace may vary significantly from person to person, necessitating adjustments in the way and pace of acceptance based on individual physical and mental capabilities. If needed, seeking parental guidance is an option.

I hope that by sharing my experience, I can provide you with some support and assistance.

Helpful to meHelpful to me 703
disapprovedisapprove0
Dominicka Smith Dominicka Smith A total of 8534 people have been helped

A cordial salutation to the soon-to-be adult.

Reading your description evokes memories of my own experiences at the age of 14. During that period, I also recall feeling a sense of uncertainty and apprehension about the future.

At the age of fourteen, I departed from my familial residence for the first time, relocating to a nearby educational institution.

The initial occasion on which you slept on a bunk bed with your classmates.

The initial experience of performing on stage.

.

It is inevitable that one will encounter numerous instances of firsts throughout their lifetime. In addition to the apprehension that is often associated with the unknown, there is the potential for personal growth and the formation of meaningful relationships.

While the outcome may not always be positive, and there may be unforeseen consequences, these experiences contribute to the tapestry of life.

The past is irrevocably lost to us, and cannot be altered.

Furthermore, the future is not yet known, and thus, it is impossible to make any predictions.

It is therefore unnecessary to dwell on past events with regret.

It is unnecessary to be overly concerned about what may occur in the future, as it has not yet come to pass.

It is imperative to focus on the task at hand in the present moment.

Regardless of the quality of the experience, once it has been terminated, it becomes a recollection. One may engage in reflection on the experience in one's leisure time, but there is no necessity to become excessively sentimental about the past.

Those who dwell excessively on the past may lose sight of the present and its inherent beauty.

With regard to the issue of apprehension regarding independent mobility and the tendency to decline social interactions,

One may choose to inform one's parents of one's thoughts, subsequently allowing oneself time to adjust to the surrounding environment, and finally, to undertake the endeavor independently.

When confronted with a physical attribute that is a source of discomfort, it is advisable to confront the issue with courage and resolve.

The more one avoids the issue, the less one will develop and grow.

It is advisable to identify one's strengths and pursue avenues for enhancement, as this can foster increased confidence.

Each individual possesses unique characteristics and strengths. It is essential to identify these attributes and pursue avenues for enhancement.

Furthermore, it is essential to cultivate confidence.

Such pursuits may include sports, public speaking, or music.

Even if one does not achieve success, it is imperative to mature. The optimal method for achieving this is to confront challenges with fortitude.

The process of maturation is not inherently frightening; rather, it is the lack of emotional maturation that can be distressing.

Ultimately, it is my sincere hope that the original poster will mature into a confident and courageous young adult.

I am Warm June, and I extend my love to the world.

Helpful to meHelpful to me 213
disapprovedisapprove0

Comments

avatar
Elliot Thomas Failure is a chance to rewrite your story and aim for success.

I understand your fear of growing up; it's a natural feeling to have. Remember, becoming an adult is a gradual process, not something that happens overnight. It's okay to feel scared and miss the simpler times. Maybe you can start by setting small goals for yourself, like learning one new skill at a time. Also, talking to someone you trust about these feelings might help you feel less alone.

avatar
Iris Davenport Success is the realization that failure is a part of the journey, not the end of it.

It's heartbreaking to hear you're feeling this way. The transition from childhood to adulthood can be overwhelming, but know that you don't have to rush into anything. Take your time to grow at your own pace. Surround yourself with supportive people who can guide you through this journey. You could also try focusing on what brings you joy now, even if it's just little things, as a way to cope with your anxiety.

avatar
Jayden Anderson A forgiving soul is a soul that can see the good in everyone.

Feeling scared about the future is tough, especially when it seems like everything is changing too fast. I want you to know that it's perfectly alright to feel uncertain. Try to cherish the present moment and maybe engage in activities that remind you of those happy times with your family. If facing salespeople or going out alone is intimidating, perhaps you can ask a friend or family member to accompany you until you feel more comfortable.

avatar
Benjamin Thomas The fruit of diligence is always sweet.

Your feelings are valid, and it's important to acknowledge them. Growing up comes with its challenges, but it also opens up many opportunities. Consider seeking professional help to explore these fears in a safe space. In the meantime, take it one day at a time. Focus on selfcare and building your confidence gradually. Remember, you don't have to have all the answers right now, and that's okay.

More from Soul Share Cove

This feature is under maintenance and update.
Close