I am interested to know what some of you think...
I am from a broken family, mother and dad divorced at a young age, and have moved around for most of my life. Dad remarried and is still with my stepmother with whom he has 2 daughters, while my mom remarried but divorced again. My biological parents do not particularly get along, although are on semi-decent terms now. I love in New York, not too far from my dad, where I have been for a few years after moving from the south where I was with my mom for high school and a bit after.
Once I moved to NY I found a job in sales and excelled for years, making fair money at a young age and even being up for a promotion at one point. Currently I am in college for a business degree and working as a server as well.
Situation: my stepmom and I do not get along. She is often rude, making snide comments, which apply to her daughters as well. Thing is, I am not her son therefore do not need to put up with it. Times that I have been happiest are when I have been more so on my own because I could pick and choose my friends and those around me, instead of putting up with c**p mixed in with selective support. I would say it does not really matter but she has a strong voice within that part of the family, and is very controlling.
This drives a wedge between my father and I since I do not consider his home my own, though he does. Further, they believe I am leaving opportunity on the table by not desiring a sales-driven career. My dad is also fairly controlling, and she is quick to criticize things she does not like or agree with. I feel bound when I put up with them, while my mom is one to tell me to pursue a passion and most of all follow my heart/desires.
Bottom line: I do not want to disrespect my dad- we had a rough 2012- but my personal beliefs are more free spirited than his and his wife's conservative views. I believe a person should keep challenging themselves with ways to live freely, instead of being bound by money. Being closer with them, which is how they like it, frankly drives me mad. Any similar stories? Experiences? Advice?
I definately agree with you on challenging yourself and live freely - and not bound by money. while I ultimately cant say that I completly understand because I dont have parents, with those characteristics. But I definatly feel like you should follow your path. One thing I have learned from my own experience with my parents, is that - i'm nothing like them. I'm 22 and have already accomplished a lot more than they did in their entire life. And I did it all by following my heart, learning from my mistakes, and carrying out my life the way I choose to, and not how everyone else expects me to.
Your an adult, you can have a heart to heart with your father if you feel that would help? Or even just tell them both in a stern, but respective manner that you definatly hear what they say, but know how you want to steer your life, and your gonna do things your way and not theirs.
Also, I could give advice about the little sneers the step mom makes, but I feel I shouldn't. I'm a very outspoken person, laid back and down to earth, and absoulty can't stand people like your describing... I would sneer back. or laugh it off like theyre not bothering me. or if I was in a not so descent mood, I would probably just come out and ask her why shes saying that and let her inner id**t show. but that side of my personality isn't always the best advice! Sorry if I get u in any trouble!!!
& FOLLOW YOUR HEART :)