"Its All About Growing Up"

As you grow, you're likely to have a lot of questions and thoughts swirling in your mind. Sometimes, you might find yourself judging your parents – categorizing them as either good or bad, even though that may not be what you truly want. It's normal to experience a range of emotions as you navigate the changes within yourself.

At times, you might feel irritated or angry, finding it hard to relate to your parents. You might notice a gap between you and them, but then suddenly feel their kindness. It's common to feel frustrated with how they handle things, wondering why they don't ask for your input or seem to acknowledge your feelings. You might even feel that your opinions don’t matter, but you might not want to show your emotions or appear sad. You might feel like behaving in ways that express your true self, without feeling judged.

If this sounds familiar, know that everything you're experiencing is entirely normal. Many of us have felt the same way at some point or the other. Parents have been raised differently, faced varied challenges, and life is different for everyone. Growing up isn't easy, and neither is being a parent. They have their own challenges to deal with, which you don't necessarily have to take on. However, you can show empathy towards them.

When you see your mom or dad tired after a long day of work or upset after a phone call, try extending a helping hand by being patient with them. Change often happens when we're patient and understanding. Treat people the way you want to be treated, whether it's through small gestures or bigger actions.

To manage your emotions, try writing them down or expressing them through art. Take deep breaths, listen to music, or dance to help yourself feel more relaxed and happier. Remember, all emotions – whether happy or sad – have a chain reaction, and it's always a choice how we respond to them.

By being patient, empathetic, and taking care of your own well-being, you can navigate the ups and downs of growing up with more ease and understanding.