Most parents dictate their children’s career paths, and it’s no surprise that many students end up pursuing degrees chosen for them by their parents. Parents often envision a better future for their families through a singular path: a STEM degree leading to a high-paying job post-graduation or after passing board examinations.
Some students enter education programs merely to facilitate their parents’ desired easy loan applications, while others enroll in medicine-related courses to fulfill their parents’ aspirations for social status and wealth. Many are drawn to engineering due to its perceived lucrative opportunities, and similarly, accountancy, known for its challenging curriculum, sees numerous dropouts.
While these careers are esteemed for their profitability and prestige, there are individuals who seek professions that foster creativity and freedom, or those who aspire to gather and report facts.
How can one navigate family pressure and pursue their chosen career path rather than the one dictated by their parents? Here are five ways to maintain resolve in the face of familial expectations:
1. Be Okay With Doing Something They Don’t Approve Of
Your family’s approval is important especially when they will be financially supporting your career while starting out like your education. However, you have to first accept it to yourself that it is okay not to do something expected from them.
Acknowledge that you are fighting for what you want because you don’t want to end up burnt out doing your job because you hate it. Some say that they found themselves happy with their family-decided career path after a few years, but you can never make sure that this will be your reality too
The truth is that you will have to live with that career with hatred for the first few years and this can lead to feeling drained and unmotivated to go day-to-day. So, first be okay with choosing what you love even if they disapprove of it.
2. Try To Be Financially Independent
Financial independence frees yourself from your family’s expectations. This means that you gain the freedom to make career choices based on your interests and goals. Try getting scholarships when you are still studying or start a small business, enter the freelancing market, or apply for a part-time job. This allows you to not depend on them for decision-making and this also proves to them that you are fully capable of garnering success without heavy reliance on them.
3. Educate and Assure Your Family
There are some parents who genuinely just want you to do well in life which is why they are offering to you what they gathered as the best career choice for you. However, even with good intentions, this might not be the best advice for you.
Open up to your parents about your plans and why your chosen career path is the best for you. You can also share success stories of professionals in that field. You will have to be patient and willing to answer any questions they might have.
Most importantly, if you are confident about what you do, work hard and do well in that field. One thing families see well is success. Once perceived as successful, your parents will stop worrying about you.
4. Don’t Take Advice From Them If They Aren’t Who You Want To Be In 20-30 Years Career-Wise
If the advice wants you to deflect from your own choice and it is coming from a family member who you don’t want to be in 20-30 years, career-wise, their guidance might not align with you. Remember that one’s advice comes from their own experience. This does not mean you have to ignore their help but take it with a grain of salt.
It’s okay to listen to their concerns, but prioritize advice from those who have achieved what you aspire to. Their experiences can provide a clearer roadmap for your own career path.
5. Thank Them
Finally, always thank your family for their concern. Most of the time, their pressure comes from a place of love and concern for your well-being. Even if their approach feels stifling, thank them. Just acknowledge their intentions despite not aligning with yours. However, this does not mean that you will have to give in to the pressure.
By expressing gratitude, you create a positive atmosphere for dialogue. This can help them feel valued and more willing to support your decisions. Remember, they want to see you happy and successful, and gratitude can pave the way for mutual respect and support.
You don’t want any comments to direct your future. At the end of the day, it is your career, your life, your future that you are deciding for. While any concerns are appreciated and constructive conversations are encouraged, make sure all of these are met with respect and kindness. Family pressure is not a new thing but it can make or break you.
