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Dear Pulse,
Since I was a teenager, I’ve dreamt of working in fashion design. I love sketching, creating styles, and imagining how I could build something of my own one day. It’s the only career path that excites me, and I’ve even started putting together a small portfolio.
But my parents don’t see it that way. They say fashion isn’t a “serious career” and insist I study law instead, because it’s stable and will give me status in society. Every time I try to explain how passionate I am about fashion, they shut me down, telling me I’ll regret not choosing a profession that guarantees money.
Part of the problem is that my dad is a lawyer and my mum is a doctor, so they both value traditional careers. The rest of my siblings were pushed into medicine, and to be fair, they’re doing well. My parents keep reminding me of this as proof that their way works — but I don’t feel like medicine or law is right for me.
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Now things have become even more difficult. They’ve told me outright that if I don’t agree to read law, they’ll withdraw all financial support. That means no school fees, no help with living costs, nothing. It feels like I’m being forced to choose between their approval and my happiness.
I feel torn — following law would keep me financially secure but unfulfilled, while following fashion might mean losing everything, including my relationship with them.
Should I sacrifice my dreams to keep the peace, or risk disappointing them and chase the life I truly want?
-Julia
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Hello Julia,
It’s not easy being the one who wants to break away from a family tradition, especially when your parents are respected professionals and your siblings have followed their path. But remember, your dreams are valid. Just because fashion design isn’t the “serious career” your parents want, doesn’t mean it isn’t meaningful. Many successful people faced the same scepticism but built careers because they followed what truly inspired them.
Choosing your passion isn’t a betrayal — it’s an act of courage. That said, it’s wise to plan ahead. If you’re serious about fashion, show them evidence of your commitment — maybe internships, competitions, or a clear plan of how you’ll turn it into a career.
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Over time, parents often respect results more than words. Your path may be harder without their full support, but living authentically will give you a sense of fulfilment law never could.
-Pulse