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Feeling Overwhelmed and Neglected by My Parents: How Do I Cope?

Anu

Anu Krishna  |1435 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Jan 10, 2025

Anu Krishna is a mind coach and relationship expert.
The co-founder of Unfear Changemakers LLP, she has received her neuro linguistic programming training from National Federation of NeuroLinguistic Programming, USA, and her energy work specialisation from the Institute for Inner Studies, Manila.
She is an executive member of the Indian Association of Adolescent Health.... more
Asked by Anonymous - Jan 08, 2025Hindi
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Relationship

My parents come from struggling families and have given us best of whatever they could afford. My mother prefers my youngest brother over us her two elder daughters and she does this very vividly since childhood. My elder sister is very vocal about all these issues and but is very rude and weird. She uses swear words and verbal abuses to parents and takes extreme steps which highlights her in wrong light in front of whole family. Even I used to think that she is ill mannered and selfish that is why she behaving in such manner. Now I am also going through that phase. I will share one instance. I have got my phd thesis review and I have to submit them ASAP. My parents almost dragged me from my husbands house stating to everyone that my 8 month old baby needs sunlight exposure and i need time for addressing my review. But I have been here for more than a week, both my parents are super busy with their own routine. Though they are retired but they have adapted to fill their day. They are very rigid with their schedule. And after coming here I seem to be the extra burden on them. They don't give us time except few moments here and there. I was busy there and i am busy here taking care of my baby, no time for my work. I am frustrated now as I cannot leave suddenly. It would reflect very bad in front of everyone. But i am realizing what my elder sister went through. My mother does not cook for me. My brother came for two days. She cooked all three meals FoR him. She left me And cornered me very silently. I don't want to fight or yell. But i am shocked, sad, frustrated as I am still breastfeeding my baby. I am already super busy with him. I get to eat around 3 or 4 in the evening. I dont want to share with people around as it will malign my parents image. i am troubled because almost all of my energy is going in controlling myself from bursting in tears or stopping myself from screaming or yelling at my parents. or from leaving this place in anger. i want to utilise my energy in a better manner. kindly help How to tackle this situation.

Ans: Dear Anonymous,
Go back to your home with your baby and literally 'mind your own business'. I say this only because you seem to be spending time with things that don;t need your time. For instance: your breast=fed baby needs you more than what you parents did or did not do thinking, right?
Bring your attention to what is at hand and right now to keep your emotional sanity intact, I would suggest that you take some time-off of your parents, go back to your home and experience the joys of motherhood. That's utilizing your energy in a better manner. Makes sense?

All the best!
Anu Krishna
Mind Coach|NLP Trainer|Author
Drop in: www.unfear.io
Reach me: Facebook: anukrish07/ AND LinkedIn: anukrishna-joyofserving/

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Dr Ashish

Dr Ashish Sehgal  |120 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Jun 18, 2023

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 17, 2023Hindi
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I am from Middle class family. Our parents, 2 brothers, my sister and Me.My Father is no more and my mom lives alone. She does not want to stay with any of us. We all live out of country and my mother lives in India. My mother is not dependent on us financially and she can manage on her own and does not expect money from any of us. She is getting old and we need to take care of her, but I feel I am only one who checks on her and arranges for any small things she needs. My sibling don't even talk about it, I feel they think if they talk about it then they have do something. Like every other old person my mother and me have a lot of differences on everything like managing finances, or renewing something or going to hospital etc and I become the bad person because of these matters. My siblings don't get involved they just call her once a while and talk for while and manage to stay in her good books. I know that it is my duty to take care of her but I feel not appreciated or rejected when she ignores all the things I do for her when others don't. She is also old school and favors boys over girls and reject me saying that I am from a different family and always guilt traps me saying that she educated me but i earn and spent on my husband family. She hates my in-laws, but they are nice people and my husband is very supportive. Since it is my mother I don't tell these issues to anyone even my husband and it is destroying my Peace.
Ans: I'm sorry to hear about the difficulties you're facing in your relationship with your mother. It can be challenging when there are differences in opinions and expectations, especially when it comes to caregiving and managing family dynamics. Here are a few suggestions that might help you navigate this situation:

Communication: It's important to have open and honest communication with your mother. Try to express your feelings calmly and respectfully, and listen to her perspective as well. Sharing your concerns and thoughts can help create a better understanding between both of you.

Seek support: While you may not want to burden your husband with these issues, it's still essential to have someone to talk to and seek support from. Consider confiding in a close friend or a counselor who can provide an objective viewpoint and offer guidance on how to cope with the emotional stress.

Boundaries: Establishing boundaries is crucial in any relationship. Make it clear to your mother what you can and cannot do, taking into account your own personal and family commitments. It's important to find a balance between caring for her and taking care of yourself and your own family.

Sibling involvement: If you feel overwhelmed and alone in taking care of your mother, you can try to involve your siblings more actively in the process. Have an open conversation with them, express your concerns, and see if they can contribute in any way, whether it's by providing emotional support or assisting with certain responsibilities.

Patience and empathy: Understand that your mother's behavior and expectations may be influenced by her upbringing, cultural beliefs, and personal experiences. Try to approach situations with empathy, even if it's challenging. Remember that she may be experiencing her own struggles and fears as she grows older.

Self-care: Taking care of your own well-being is essential. Ensure that you make time for yourself, engage in activities that bring you joy, and maintain a healthy work-life balance. By taking care of yourself, you'll be better equipped to handle the challenges that arise in your relationship with your mother.

Remember, it's normal to feel frustrated and emotionally drained in such situations. However, with patience, understanding, and effective communication, you may be able to improve your relationship with your mother and find a balance that works for both of you.

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Kanchan

Kanchan Rai  |479 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Apr 30, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 30, 2024Hindi
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Dear Madam, Iam a 45 year old woman. Ever since I was a kid I had went through lot of bullying by my rekatives for the way I look but my parents never supported me in any way instead found fault in ne for complaining but would always support my younger brother. Somewhere down the line I thought this was all I deserved and let oeople walk all over me without standing up for myself. Now that Iam a mother myself of a 15 year old kid with dyskexia, i have sacrificed my career fir his sake and still get bullied by my relatives dir being a useless house wife. I have started drawing boundaries around me to protect my mental sanity and allow only few people in it which invludes a small group of friends and my son and husband. I avoid making new friends. I have also stopped attending any social events that involves my relatives. Meanwhile I have started deeply resenting my parents who want ne to take care of them but openly favour my brother who lives abroad. I have taken care of them everytime they require neducal treatments yet my father openly says that he plans to give all his property to my brother who is never coming back. Its not about the money here but the apathy they have towards me that kills me from inside. I have tried to talk to them multiple times but each time my mother creates a scene and puts the enture blame on me. For once in my life i want my parents to love me unconditionally the way I do with my son. Am i wrong to expect that? This is causung lot of health issues in me. Please advise.
Ans: First and foremost, it's crucial to recognize that your feelings are valid. It's natural to want love and support from your parents, especially after all you've done for them. It's not wrong to expect unconditional love from your family; however, sometimes, unfortunately, families can be complex and dysfunctional, and our expectations may not always be met.

Drawing boundaries and prioritizing your mental health and well-being is a positive step. It's essential to protect yourself from toxic relationships and environments, even if it means distancing yourself from certain family members. Surrounding yourself with supportive friends and loved ones, like your son and husband, is vital for your emotional health.

Regarding your parents, it's clear that their behavior is hurtful and unjust. It's understandable that you would feel hurt and resentful toward them, given their favoritism towards your brother and lack of appreciation
for your sacrifices and care. However, it's also essential to recognize that you cannot control their actions or attitudes. You can only control how you respond to them.

While it's challenging, try to approach conversations with your parents from a place of empathy and understanding. Express your feelings calmly and assertively, focusing on how their actions make you feel rather than blaming them. It's possible that they may not even realize the extent of the hurt they're causing you. However, it's also essential to set realistic expectations. If your parents continue to be unsupportive or dismissive, it may be necessary to limit your interactions with them for the sake of your own well-being.

Remember to prioritize self-care and seek support from a therapist or counselor if you're struggling with your mental health. It's okay to seek professional help to navigate through these difficult emotions and experiences. You deserve love, respect, and validation, and it's essential to surround yourself with people who uplift and support you.

Lastly, continue to cherish the love and bond you have with your son and husband. They are your pillars of support, and together, you can navigate through these challenges. You're stronger than you realize, and you have the power to create a fulfilling and loving life for yourself, regardless of the negativity from others.

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Love Guru

Love Guru   |204 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert - Answered on Oct 24, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Oct 15, 2024Hindi
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Relationship
I need advice from anyone here. I am 34 years old woman and married. I have 10 year old daughter. I am also working in MNC.I got married 12 years back. I am seeing lot of challenges in my home. I am living with my in laws from the day one. They were lot of issues going on from the starting. I faced lot of issue during my pregnancy due to this. Here giving just an example, My MIL condition is I was not allowed to drink milk more than one small glass for a day and allowed to eat rice only one rice spatula for afternoon and night, no veggies and no fruits during pregnancy. Due to this My health got deteriorated and I had gone through surgery in my 6th month and was in bed rest till the delivery. My FIL used to bring some fruits to me, and she scolded him very badly. After that he stopped to bring anything. Like this lot of things keep on happening till date. She doesn't allow me to cook, and she only prepare lunch. Tells everyone in the family and neighbourhood that I won't cook. Lot of times I asked her I will cook. She says she doesn’t like if others cook. So, she allows me to chop the veggies or grating coconut like that. She gives very less amount of food for my daughter. sometimes even my daughter is hungry, she scolds her saying don't eat too much. For 10 years old kid, she weighs 24. To her school lunch bag and snacks, I fought with my MIL and prepare food for her box and give. She eats happily. Sometimes my husband and myself tried to tell her and she goes on like I changed her son and He doesn't love her anymore because of me etc., Now a days, I feel relationship between my husband and me is going down. He only listens to her. Sometimes my MIL scolds my daughter unnecessarily Infront of my husband and he we will scold my daughter for this again. Due to this, my husband and my daughter relationship is also getting worst. He keeps on scolding her, My daughter is average in her academics, she doesn't study properly after coming home due to lot distractions and mood swings at home. One more reason is TV. At home My MIL watches the TV from the morning. We are not allowed to watch but that’s ok I don’t have time for that anyway. While my daughter is studying in the evening, my MIL watches some serials. My daughter's whole concentration is on the voices coming from TV. She will keep on getting distracted and make excuses for something to watch TV like drinking water,etc. We tried to tell my MIL, but it didn’t go well. Most of the times, I feel like me and my daughter are outsiders and whatever we do they doesn't like it. I like to pray by singing one song at least once a day. She doesn't like it. Whatever food I prepare to my daughter my MIL complains it to my husband as junk. I normally prepare her rice with lot of veggies, parathas with veggies and sandwich. After I started preparing these, my daughter started eating veggies, otherwise there was big no from her. I don't know how to handle all those things . Also recently during Dusshera, due to one of the situation like this, my husband is not talking properly with me and my daughter. I am an introvert, and I don’t have any friends. I don’t know with whom to seek advice.
Ans: Twelve years of this? You’re a financially independent, capable woman. Why in God’s name are you tolerating this absurd woman and her absolute BS? Move out. NOW. If your husband has any sense, he’ll join you. If not, let him live under his mother’s skirt for the rest of his life, but don’t destroy your own any more than you already have. Take your daughter and LEAVE!

..Read more

Anu

Anu Krishna  |1435 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Nov 29, 2024

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This pertains to my parents. I got married at the age of 30 about 18 years ago and have a dear and loving spouse who believed in contributing to our home and didn't wish to be a home maker. Since we were living in a joint family, my father wanted only us to spend for the full house without much/negligible contribution. My elder brother's spouse is from a well to do family and they started to live independently from the beginning of their marriage. In spite of running the total household expenses, we have from the beginning learnt to save and we planned many vacation trips, overseas and domestic alike. My mother could not and till date cannot appreciate the fact that only the 2 of us are holidaying and she wanted to be part of our holidays which we have vehemently denied as that was a me-time for both of us. She has held this sourness against us although this comes out in her discussion occasionally. In spite of living together and addressing all needs of my elderly parents, my mother is perpetually complaining about not doing enough. I have tried to leave home and separate out as 2-3 times the fight with her had gone out of bounds because of her behaving un-reasonably weird. At times she takes care of all of us and at times she speaks so bitter about me and my wife, it is had to understand if it was the same person. My father has been a quiet individual and he has no opinions on anyone and will not side with anyone, neither will he call out any wrongdoing & there is no point in talking to him as his only objective is to have a peaceful life and have 3 meals a day without caring about anyone else in the world. 9 years ago i was laid off and i was almost compelled to start a real estate business with my father, this work requires mental and physical dedication which i have put and established myself in a respectable stage. Since the beginning my father had wanted to only take the accounting bit of the business as his responsibility as he does not know anything else. He has not let me look at accounts ever and he kind of pays me a salary whatever he deems fit at the end of the month, he also retains a large chunk with him and pays mom to run the house from the business. Although he has no travel, not going out of home, and no friends, he still needs the money for which he has not described or spoken when asked, mom and i suspect he is funding another family at our expense but we are not sure, as he has maintained a secret life for his entire life. 6 months ago me and my wife purchased a home and shifted and even now his approach towards my family needs is nonchalant as he keeps the major pie of the business income regardless of not putting any effort or work. At one end there is my mother who has demands all the time, at the other end my father is almost stealing from me without any justification or clarification. Somehow both of us are living separate and managing a peaceful life with very little which remains after servicing all Emi's and plus we also manage to contribute little to my father in law for running his household. Both of us seem to be burned out as our close ones only think of us only when money is required. Sometimes i feel i should shut shop and do something else, i also upscaled myself by clearing MBA at the age of 45 during covid so that some employer may consider me worthy and in spite of applying to 450+ job openings no one considers my resume to be appropriate. My wife is employed in a senior managerial position with a mnc and both of us fear that in 10 years time we will have nothing left with us and no one to take care of ourselves. Its frustrating as there seems no path forward, can u suggest anything ?
Ans: Dear RERA,
Living in a separate home in your case would have to mean that you keep your finances separately as well.
Your older brother must pitch in as well for parents; so please have that chat with him. There's no point in playing a martyr and then worry about being taken advantage of. When you say YES, when you actually want to say NO, is the beginning of a whole lot of issues which is what has happened...
So, now rewind and start clearing things one by one. Start by talking to your brother who will also need to contribute towards parents. Next, what your father does with that money is something you may never know; what you can do is CAP the amount so that he does not think that he has a perennial source of money. Kindly go on more trips with your wife so that your mother gets used to this fact. Plan trips at least once a year with the entire family which is where your mother will also enjoy and understand that she is not being ignored but actually cared for.
Plan your life with your spouse and make decisions that are financially prudent as you need to take care of yourselves as well.

All the best!
Anu Krishna
Mind Coach|NLP Trainer|Author
Drop in: www.unfear.io
Reach me: Facebook: anukrish07/ AND LinkedIn: anukrishna-joyofserving/

..Read more

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Archana

Archana Deshpande  |95 Answers  |Ask -

Image Coach, Soft Skills Trainer - Answered on Jan 10, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jan 10, 2025Hindi
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Career
Hello, I’m a teacher in Chennai, and over the years, I’ve built a solid reputation among my students and colleagues. However, despite the satisfaction I get from teaching, my current pay is not enough to meet my financial goals or to support my long-term plans. I’ve been considering transitioning into corporate training because I’ve heard that it can be more financially rewarding, but I’m not sure how to take this forward. I’m thinking of investing in online courses that specialise in corporate training, but I’m hesitant. I’m not sure if it’s worth the time, money, and effort, especially since I’ve already put a lot into my teaching career. How do I evaluate if making this switch is a good decision? Would my experience as a teacher actually help me in corporate training, or will I have to start from scratch? Should I look for a mentor in this field before making the leap? Any advice would be greatly appreciated!
Ans: Hi!!
It is so heartening to see this statement of yours," solid reputation among my students and colleagues". I feel that you need to build a solid foundation on all the set skills that you currently have. Not everyone can earn the respect of students ...especially in today's world. Consolidate on this... put in a psychology course/ degree and anything else that can solidify your existing skills!
People are ready to invest in their children, always remember this.....If financial goals is an issue, you can switch to a school where the salary is good, good teachers are in great demand. Collect a lot of testimonials from parents and students before you switch. Demand the salary that you deserve. For earning extra income you can start classes, one of my friends earns in crores just by lending extra help to students .As a teacher you know where the gap exists in our educational system, see if you can fill this gap, see what you can offer and make money.
I am investing a lot of time on this aspect of you because you said that you are actually good at it and that you enjoy doing it, not everyone can say this about their work. It is a matter of time you monetize what you love doing ....groom yourself well, look like a powerful person and demand the salary you think you deserve. Learn to invest your money well and let money work for you. Think of opening your own school.

I am a personal coach as well as a corporate trainer, it a crowded place here too, your experience as a teacher will definitely come in handy ,but you will require additional training for becoming a corporate trainer no doubt about it, it builds credibility. It is hard work, it takes time, energy, certification and constant learning in order to be sought after corporate trainer and demand that kind of money. If you are a go getter, smart, well groomed, confident in your verbal communication and in planning your sessions well, then go for it...else..you said it, "I've already put a lot into my teaching career", consolidate on this!! Lots of schools are investing in training teachers as well as students, go for that or you can come to me we can have chat together and then you can take the leap forward in whatever direction you feel like taking. Whatever you decide it has to be a well thought out decision!

Hope this helps...may wisdom be on your side..TC!

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Samraat

Samraat Jadhav  |2156 Answers  |Ask -

Stock Market Expert - Answered on Jan 10, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jan 10, 2025Hindi
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Money
As a prospective investor, I’m trying to balance these factors: does the flat sequential growth reflect a temporary phase that might correct itself in subsequent quarters, or could it point to broader challenges within the IT industry that might persist? Additionally, with IT stocks typically being sensitive to global economic trends and client spending patterns, would it be wiser to invest now, leveraging the strong order book as a growth indicator, or should I wait for clearer signals of sustained performance and recovery in discretionary spending?
Ans: It's great that you're carefully considering these factors before making an investment decision. Let's break down each aspect:

Flat Sequential Growth
Flat sequential growth in the IT sector could be due to a variety of factors, including macroeconomic challenges, cuts in discretionary spending, and delays in decision-making. While some analysts believe this could be a temporary phase with a potential rebound in subsequent quarters, others caution that it might reflect broader, more persistent challenges.

Global Economic Trends and Client Spending Patterns
IT stocks are indeed sensitive to global economic trends and client spending patterns. A strong order book can be a positive indicator, but it's essential to consider the broader economic environment. If global economic conditions improve and client spending increases, IT stocks could see significant growth.

Invest Now or Wait?
Investing now with a strong order book as a growth indicator could be a good move if you believe in the sector's resilience and potential for recovery. However, if you prefer to wait for clearer signals of sustained performance and recovery in discretionary spending, it might be wise to hold off until there's more certainty.

Ultimately, the decision depends on your risk tolerance and investment horizon. If you're comfortable with some level of uncertainty and believe in the sector's long-term potential, investing now could be beneficial. If you prefer a more cautious approach, waiting for clearer signals might be the better choice.

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Prof Suvasish

Prof Suvasish Mukhopadhyay  |285 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jan 10, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jan 10, 2025Hindi
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Career
What career opportunities are available for someone specializing in Hindi literature, and how can higher studies in this field help secure academic or professional roles?
Ans: First let me know your qualification, then I will be able to guide you. Best og luck. Just follow me. May God Bless You. Professor....................................................:)

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Anu

Anu Krishna  |1435 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Jan 10, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jan 09, 2025
Relationship
Hello Anu, the wife of my best friend is frustrated in her marriage and is having an affair with a colleague. She confided about it to me a few months ago. I presumed it was because she wanted to unburden herself a bit. She said my friend had a self esteem issue and got very toxic at times. Also that their sex life was non existent & he doesn't want to do anything about it. Hence the affair. I told her that cheating on my friend was still unfair & that it would be better to separate and go their own ways and then start afresh but also assured her I would not divulge this to my friend as no third person can be the judge & it is only for her to come clean whenever. After the first few discussions, we have been chatting on and off but of late she has been sharing some intimate details of her affair including how the colleague who is also married, seduced her and what all they do when they are together. I find this very weird and am starting to wonder if there are subtle hints that she is interesed in me. Should I divulge all this to my friend at all at some point in time?? I think they need to divorce.
Ans: Dear Anonymous,
Kindly move far away from her and this situation. You cannot become the stop-gap or band-aid for the lady's marital discord. Someone who has begun to discuss their intimate moments with an outsider, needs a hard check on themselves. If she isn't able to sort out her issues and is now directing her attention onto you, it can be for your attention and validation. It's not a great space for you to be in as nothing you do will ever be enough and to top all that, imagine what it can do your friend...
So, stay away...safer...

All the best!
Anu Krishna
Mind Coach|NLP Trainer|Author
Drop in: www.unfear.io
Reach me: Facebook: anukrish07/ AND LinkedIn: anukrishna-joyofserving/

...Read more

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