Dear Ginn,

Wanting to help your parents enjoy their life is a worthwhile goal! The best way to do that is not to forsake yours though. I have no doubt that your dad loves you. Even if you did live your life different than his expectations he still would love you.

Breaking out of a tower moment is hard to do quickly, to be honest, it will take a while. Small goals are better at the beginning than large ones. My suggestion is to figure out the monetary side first if you figure out how much you need to live and have time to spend on passion while helping your parents.

If your goal is to help them retire then how can you help? Is there anything you actually can do to help with bills? Do they talk about going on vacation anywhere?  My suggestion is to talk to them about retirement and how you can help.

I know that parents can be uncomfortable talking about such things and can make statements of  “it would help if you had a stable career so we don’t worry etc.” but talking can help bring understanding.

I would also write down five things you would love to do.

For example, my goals involve.

1. Taking the JLPT exam in December

2. Going on Vacation to Japan

3. Having My Own Apartment.

4. Sewing a Complete Wardrobe

5. Owning my own Business

I also have monetary goals too. but you get the idea.