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.
Comments
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.
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.
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.
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.