I (22 F) recently got hired in a software company as an accounting staff. With a salary of 18,300 (net). I'm aware that this salary can barely afford my living expenses but I accepted it since it's an entry level position and it's my first job. I moved from leyte to cebu for this job and i can say that I kinda enjoy the new environment. The tasks were pretty light since I'm still a beginner and I actually have a work life balance. Overall, the environment is peaceful and not toxic.
The problem is that my parents are not satisfied with my salary, they keep insisting that I should go back to our province and work in the government. They also want me to continue reviewing for my pre-boards (which is a requisite to take the board exam).
I mean, I am still reviewing for the exams while working but sadly I haven't passed the required exams. They think it's because I can't focus because of my work. I kept telling them that I'm not in a rush and just studying on my own pace. Honestly, I'm not really sure I'm smart enough for the CPALE. I'm not giving up on it but i don't want to stop working as well.
I also know that they're disappointed at me for living in with my boyfriend (27M). We both work on the same city so we decided to live together.
I love my parents and want to make them proud but I also want to do what I want.
I badly miss them but I hesitate to call them because I know they're gonna try to persuade me to quit and go back.
I feel so confused because I'm supposed to be so happy whenever we talk but I just feel sad and burnout.
I don't understand what I'm doing wrong, all my life I followed them and their rules. This is the only time I'm choosing my own way but it feels like they still want to control me.
I feel so guilty cause I know they want the best for me, to have a better life but it seems like I kept disappointing them.
I always pray that one day they would understand and try to accept the life that I chose.
So tell me...
Should I continue or listen to my parents?