| Always Letting Somebody Down | School | Always Letting Somebody Down | <div class="ExternalClassB1C5D9FC7EB54BAAB8790CDA85DC3236"><p><span class="ms-rteFontFace-1 ms-rteFontSize-3">I am struggling. To
start, let me explain my family: I am the youngest of 5, and my siblings are
all crazy accomplished. One works at Apple, another went to Harvard, etc. but
it’s not just academics. They all also have major success in basically every activity,
sport, or anything. Next, I am (or at least was) really smart. But this school
year has been insane for me. I am involved in so many activities, and I don’t
have any free time. Also, many of my activities overlap, which makes me feel
awful because I have to choose one, and I am always letting somebody down. My
brother that is closest in age to me just went off to college so now I am the
only kid at home, and I do not get along with my parents. All around, I am
super stressed, I have no free time, and I’m not enjoying anything anymore.</span><br></p></div> | <div class="ExternalClassD4D4B4491DBE434C97856D8A1F9DED6D"><p>
<span class="ms-rteFontFace-1 ms-rteFontSize-3">We are glad you reached out for some advice. You definitely come from a family of successful people and that can make it difficult to measure up. However, we would encourage you to set your own course and don't compare your course with that of your siblings. You are unique and have your own strengths, interests and heart to follow. It is best to compete with the person in the mirror, you don't have to be the best, just strive to be better today than you were yesterday. You said you have too many activities and they overlap, it is okay to pick and choose and not over commit. If you find you need to cut back on some activities that is your right. Though it is great you worry about letting others down, you have to look out for your own health and wellbeing as too. You may want to consider seeking help with a professional Therapist to help you work through these difficult issues.</span> </p><p>
<span class="ms-rteFontFace-1 ms-rteFontSize-3">You mention that you are the only one home and that you and your parents don't get along well. That can be a frustrating when the adults in your life are not ones you can turn to problem solve for your busy schedule and day to day triumphs and tribulations. We encourage you to reach out to other trusted adults like a teacher or school counselor or Principal to help give you some direction. You can also call us here at the
<span style="text-decoration:underline;">
<strong>Boys Town</strong></span>
<span style="text-decoration:underline;">
<strong>National Hotline at 1-800-448-3000</strong></span> if you need to talk and problem solve. If you are uncomfortable calling we have a text and chat option as well.<br></span></p><p>
<span class="ms-rteFontFace-1 ms-rteFontSize-3">Many tools can be found on our web site at </span>
<a href="/">
<span class="ms-rteFontFace-1 ms-rteFontSize-3">www.yourlifeyourvoice.org</span></a><span class="ms-rteFontFace-1 ms-rteFontSize-3">. There are numerous tips that you may find helpful, for example as you set your own course these tips and tools may help you discover your strengths:</span><br class="ms-rteFontFace-1 ms-rteFontSize-3"></p><p>
<a href="/Pages/identity.aspx"><span class="ms-rteFontFace-1 ms-rteFontSize-3">http://www.yourlifeyourvoice.org/v2/Pages/identity.aspx</span></a><span class="ms-rteFontFace-1 ms-rteFontSize-3"> </span>
<br class="ms-rteFontFace-1 ms-rteFontSize-3"></p><p>
<span class="ms-rteFontFace-1 ms-rteFontSize-3">Again, we are proud of you for reaching out today. You can get through this difficult time and find success in your own journey.</span> </p><p>
<span class="ms-rteFontFace-1 ms-rteFontSize-3">Sincerely, </span> </p><p>
<span class="ms-rteFontFace-1 ms-rteFontSize-3">Tom Crisis Counselor</span><br></p></div> | 15 | | |
