Ah the Italians and their boys! I married one, and not only was he male, he was the baby of the family!! Double trouble! I was the only non-Italian in the entire group. We lasted 18 years, and had two lovely children, but ultimately it was not meant to be. :( He was a handsome guy, and eventually it was too hard for him to resist the other ladies who admired him. To the family, it must have been my fault, because their little boy was incapable of doing anything wrong. Lol.
That's some really good insight into yourself Cara. I was the first-born of two so I had a whole different level of expectation placed on me and that I placed on myself in that role.
This is my story too. Italian American and I'm the oldest of 3 (2 girls, 1 boy). I was supposed to be a boy and spent years trying to prove to my dad I was capable. It has taken years to be aware that I'm trying to prove myself and it comes off as defensiveness. Not good at this point of my professional career. Loving self talk has been so helpful for me but I can quickly spring into defense mode when feeling cornered.
Ah the Italians and their boys! I married one, and not only was he male, he was the baby of the family!! Double trouble! I was the only non-Italian in the entire group. We lasted 18 years, and had two lovely children, but ultimately it was not meant to be. :( He was a handsome guy, and eventually it was too hard for him to resist the other ladies who admired him. To the family, it must have been my fault, because their little boy was incapable of doing anything wrong. Lol.
Oof! They can do no wrong.
That's some really good insight into yourself Cara. I was the first-born of two so I had a whole different level of expectation placed on me and that I placed on myself in that role.
Thanks Melanie. I believe we all carry our own version of 'needing to prove.’
I can relate - I was in the middle with an older and younger brother. It gives us more drive and determination. Great insights Cara.
Ah. No wonder we are friends!
Haha. Too true!
Makes me sigh.
Most boys I know (and many I don't) would be honoured to be as capable as you are. You are an inspiration, Cara. Thank you.
Thank you Mark.
My pleasure.
This is my story too. Italian American and I'm the oldest of 3 (2 girls, 1 boy). I was supposed to be a boy and spent years trying to prove to my dad I was capable. It has taken years to be aware that I'm trying to prove myself and it comes off as defensiveness. Not good at this point of my professional career. Loving self talk has been so helpful for me but I can quickly spring into defense mode when feeling cornered.
Wow. We could talk for hours.
Ahhh, the relief of letting go of proving yourself.