The Comparison Trap: The First Cut.
"Why can’t you be like him?" "Look at her marks—why can’t you achieve that?" These phrases are daggers to our confidence. Parents compare us to others as if we’re robots manufactured on an assembly line. Each comparison chips away at our self-esteem until we’re left doubting our own worth.
Do they realize how this constant comparison poisons us? Do they understand that instead of pushing us to do better, they’re driving us into self-loathing and despair? Probably not, because they’re too busy glorifying someone else’s child while crushing their own.
Your Dreams? Irrelevant!
Here’s the harsh truth: most parents don’t give a damn about our dreams. They have a script in their head—be a doctor, an engineer, or land a so-called "secure" 9-to-5 job. Forget about what we want, what we’re passionate about, or where our talent lies. They decide our careers and expect us to excel, even if it kills our spirit.
Why? Because it’s about them, not us. It’s about their ego, their standing in society, and their twisted notion of "success." What they fail to see is that by forcing us into a mold, they’re suffocating our individuality, creativity, and happiness.
The Race of Marks and Jobs: A Never-Ending Torture
From the moment we enter school, we’re shoved into a rat race. Marks, marks, marks—because apparently, your grades define your worth as a human being. Then comes the job hunt. Forget following your passion; all that matters is a "stable" job that pays well.
But here’s the thing: we’re not rats, and life isn’t a race. When will parents understand that life is about exploring, learning, failing, and growing—not about ticking off boxes on a checklist they’ve created?
The Pain They Don’t See.
What parents don’t realize is the pain they inflict. Their words, actions, and expectations can break us. We bottle up our anger, frustration, and sadness because expressing it means being labeled "disrespectful" or "ungrateful." But deep down, we’re screaming.
We’re tired of being compared.
We’re tired of living their dreams.
We’re tired of pretending to be okay while our mental health deteriorates.
The Wake-Up Call for Parents
To every parent reading this: wake up! Understand that your child is not an extension of your ego. They are individuals with their own dreams, passions, and potential. Stop treating them like a project you need to "complete."
Instead of comparing, appreciate their unique qualities.
Instead of imposing, support their choices.
Instead of judging, listen to them.
We need parents who empower, not dictate. Parents who encourage, not criticize. Parents who love unconditionally, not conditionally based on success.
To Every Youngster Feeling This Pain.
You’re not alone. There are countless others like you fighting the same battle. Speak up, take a stand, and don’t let anyone—including your parents—dim your light. Your dreams, passions, and happiness matter. You matter.
If they won’t listen, then prove them wrong. Follow your path, not theirs. Because at the end of the day, it’s your life—and you deserve to live it your way.
The Curse of Imposed Expectations: How Parents Push Us into a Spiral of Frustration, Anger, and Depression.