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Hi there,
Its really difficult when we feel we have to do something we dont enjoy. Especially when its someone else who is putting the pressure on us. Sometimes there are things in life we have to do even when we dont want to, like go to school or take exams. But as rowing is something you do in your spare time, its not something that anyone should force you to do.
Its really positive you felt able to talk to your parents about how you feel. Often explaining your thoughts about a situation can help others to see what is important to you. It seems like they werent able to fully understand your feelings and you have still been left feeling forced into it. It could help to ask your parents for a clear reason why they want you to continue
It may help to write down all the reasons that you dont want to do rowing anymore. This will make it easier to explain it to your parents, as youll have something prepared. Sometimes it can also help to use assertiveness skills to help other people understand how were feeling.
It could also help to talk to an adult you trust, like a teacher at school or another family member about how youre feeling. They might be able to talk to your parents about how you are feeling on your behalf.
It may help to also come up with some reasons why you feel gymnastics may be a good thing for you to continue. This will help them see the positives of your situation, rather than just focusing on giving up something they want you to do.
I can hear that having to continue rowing is making you feel really upset, and this is something that you could talk this through with a counsellor in more detail. They can help to explore more about how you feel, and how you could talk to your parents and teachers.
Take care,
Sam
You can talk privately to a counsellor online or call 0800 1111 for free.
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