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My problems in life

Dear Guru,

I am a 26-year-old guy from Charsadda. I belong to a middle class family. I have been teaching at college level for more than two years. Since literature is my subject, I find reading very soothing. The problem is I cannot focus on my reading due to my distractions at home. Most of my family members are not fond of reading and they don’t care about my interest. They talk loudly and make so much noise that it becomes difficult for me to read in peace. How can I deal with this?

And also I want to become a writer so please suggest some tips for improving my writing skills.

Struggling Writer

Dear Struggling Writer,

It’s good to know you love reading. However, you should also know that everyone has different hobbies. If you are into reading, it doesn’t necessarily mean your family members should follow suit. So, just let them be as they are. I know it must be difficult to read in peace in a noisy environment but then you cannot expect them to be quiet. So, ignore your unfavourable surroundings and try to read at a time when others are sleeping or are involved in other activities. Or you can go to a park in evening, nearby your house, with your books to read in a calm ambiance or you can even go to a library to read without being disturbed.

Typically writers are also keen readers. Since you are an avid reader already, try to diversify your reading material. Read different writers, different genres, and pay attention to sentence structure, word choice, and how the material flows. If you want to improve your writing skills, start by writing on a regular basis, even if it’s a small piece. The best way to improve is to get a pen and paper or sit in front of your computer and actually write. If the message is complex, outline it. Try to compose your thoughts before writing an article. Always proofread your writing twice. Be precise and stay away from using jargon or technical words. The more clear and simple your language is, the better it is. Good luck!

My parents treat me like a kid

Salaam Guru,

I am a 16 year-old boy from Islamabad. The problem is my parents still treat me like I am a five year old kid. Boys my age are allowed to go outside whenever they want to but my parents are always too concerned about my securirty. They are afraid that someone is going to kidnap me or take me away from them. Guru, they don't even let me make friends. They don't let me go on trips or to take part in extracurricular activities. They are very narrow-minded and don't let me talk to girls even. A girl from my class messaged me on Instagram and my father got really upset; he literally deleted all my social media accounts and took my phone away from me saying it was for my own good. I have tried talking to my parents about this but they say that it is for my ‘safety’ as they love me. Guru, help me; I am fed up with this life.

Fed Up Boy

Dear Fed Up Boy,

I can understand your problem. All parents love their children but some parents go overboard and cross all limits. Sadly, you have an over-protective set of parents. I don’t doubt their love for you but what they are doing is not right. They are unintentionally keeping you away from all the harmless activities – like playing with your friends and going out – which is not good. They are not realizing that you are turning into a dull and miserable adult instead of a happy and healthy one. Their behaviour is not normal.

My advice is to talk to someone whom you feel close to – like your aunt, uncle or even your grandparents. Explain your parents’ unfair treatment towards you. Hopefully, they will understand how detrimental it is to your well-being. They could persuade your parents to change their mindset and trust you. The next step is to be patient and wait for the time till you stand on your own feet and in a position to do your own things. Good luck!