Gen Z Guide to FI

My parents stayed with me for a week to celebrate the holidays. I wondered when anyone would bring up the ‘where are you going to school? And when will you accept Yale because it’s your best option.’ 

Finally, on the last night, my dad and mum had separate talks with me on the topic. My dad, as always, gave me his perspective. He grew up poor and believes you must always go for the best if the opportunity presents itself. Always think long-term. Of course, I can’t argue with his logic, but I have to see if my goals are also aligned.

He said, ‘You don’t always have to do things you like. You should always aim for the best, and then you can figure it out when you get there.’

This was not the advice I was looking for. I think I really wanted the follow your dreams, high school musical advice. I definitely was expecting my dad to be someone he’s not. I want someone to tell me that no matter what I choose everything will be fine. I left that conversation even more stressed because what I took from what he said was “you can choose whatever school you want, I (my dad) can’t force you but it has to be Yale”. I respect his opinion a lot but it is still my choice in the end. Now I just need to find some balls and figure out what I want.

My mum on the other hand told me that she wants what is best for me but I shouldn’t make any decision just to make her happy. I need to live my own life. I told her that I decided not to apply to Harvard because I just didn’t feel like I’d fit into the culture. I talked about this more in my post – Boston 2023 Trip Review. However, I couldn’t bring myself to tell my parents after I visited because I just couldn’t. My mum knows of my struggles with mental health. She knows I spiral over everything and I have a very do or die mentality. Everything is 10 times more dramatic in my brain than in reality. Anyway, talking with her gave me peace. I just want to live my life peacefully. She said at the end of the day, she just wants me to be happy and she has no plans to live my life for me. In her own words, ‘I (my mum) have my own life’. She’s cool like that.

Honestly, they are both right. I understand their perspectives and am grateful to have parents who care enough to be invested in my big life decisions.

I have about 3 weeks to decide, so it’s crunch time. I have some people to chat with from a few schools, so I can have a well-rounded opinion of each program. But I must remember that wherever I end up, I will still be better than where I am right now.

Can you guys make a decision for me? I’m only partially joking. DM me at @genzfirebaby

XOXO Gen Z Fire Baby