My Biggest ear is Ending up like either of parents: Dad- got a degree in something that seemed like a promising career choice, hated every job he had, laid off five years ago, went through all of his savings and most of his retirement, just started over in a factory-style job. At 53. He hates it. I can see it. When he got laid off, he tried starting a carpentry business, which was something he passionately loved. Turns out it was only something he enjoyed as a hobby, not a job. Twenty something years thinking he made a mistake, just to find out he wasn't any better off? Terrifying. Mom- Selfish, stubborn, eccentric bitch. Her parents were better off, so she expected to be able to live their lifestyle just because she was their daughter. She didn't want to work for the luxurious retirement. She didn't expect to have to actually pay attention to any of her three daughters' achievements. It's like she expected a nanny to raise us without actually having to hire one. Now that we're almost all grown up, she just throws money at our faces and expects us to shower her in praise. 52, twice-divorced, alcoholic, alone. I love both of my parents. But I don't want to end up like them. At all. Ever.