
My name is Renz, 20 years old, currently studying in college. I just want to open up about my feelings because lately, I've been having a hard time balancing two things that are very important to me—studying and loving.
I have a girlfriend who I love very much. We see each other and talk almost every day. I can't help it because I also want to make her feel like she's my priority and I don't want her to feel like I'm neglecting her. But as time goes on, my mother notices that I'm focusing too much on her. She often says that I might neglect my studying, and I admit that sometimes I feel guilty because she might be right.
My dreams are important to me. I want to finish and get a diploma, not only for myself but also for my mom and of course, for the future of my girlfriend and I. But sometimes, I have a hard time explaining to my gf that I also need to prioritize schoolwork, especially when she gets upset when I'm not immediately available. I don't want to lose our trust and sweetness, but I don't want to lose my focus on my studies.
I want to be responsible. So I'm trying to make a schedule—time for school, time for family, and time for my girlfriend. I know it's not easy to do, but I believe that if someone really loves you, they'll understand you. I also want to show my mom that I can get along as long as I know how to prioritize properly.
Sometimes I think, maybe I'm lacking in showing maturity. Because when I'm stuck between two important things—gf and mom—I feel like I'm confused about who I should prioritize. But I want to fix this. I believe that a love story is sweeter when you both have a good future. And mom will be prouder when she sees that I didn't waste the opportunity to study.