I moved here to marry the woman I love; we met in my country while she was working for the same company.
I couldn’t get a job in my former field here, without more schooling, and I thought a change would work out better. However, I feel I’ve fallen far behind where I’d be financially, had I moved back home.
I had no network here; what progress I’ve made has been entirely on my own. I fear I’m unable to advance our lifestyle as far as we’ll want.
Should I consider leaving my family and spending a year back home to make extra money? My wife doesn’t want to move as she and our daughter, 3, are very happy here, and she fears the costs of moving around might erode any gains.

- Uncertain

If your wife would agree to accompany you and consider the year’s move as an adventure rather than just a financial strategy, I’d say, go for it. Young children can adapt to moves; there’s the added advantage of connecting with your own family and friends there, which might boost your self-confidence, whatever your next step.
But I do not advise leaving your wife and child for a year, for these reasons: 1) it could stretch into a longer period, if you get involved in business matters you can’t leave; 2) long-distance is hard on young parents left alone with all the child-raising and household duties (just ask military spouses).
If it’s not necessary– and since you ARE progressing – have faith in your abilities and further success. There are no guarantees either way… but hard work and a positive attitude are more helpful than speculating on what you may or may not be missing.

I’m a student from Uruguay, 19, trying to improve my English, but recently, I’ve being having difficulties with my English teacher.
Since I started my classes, two months ago, he’s been very friendly, maybe too much, but that didn’t bother me until four days ago. He started telling me about how he recently broke up with his partner and was very sad.
After two hours when finally I said I needed to go, he suddenly grabbed me from behind and whispered things at my ear. I turned around and smacked him in the face and left.
The day after, I went to his house to clear things and he immediately started to apologize, said he didn’t t mean to do it, and offered me free classes for the price of my silence. I agreed. But now, it feels awkward in the class, with lots of uncomfortable silences.
However, he’s a very good teacher and I can’t afford much more time here.
Should I risk time and money trying to find a new teacher, or continue with this guy even he’s a little messed up?

- Confused

Learn this early: Whenever you choose to make deals with the Devil, it always ends up costly for you. In this case, he’s “the Devil” who may mess up again with you, or other innocent students.
Find another teacher. And report the incident, exactly as it happened, to the school that employs this man.
I understand you may feel compassion for his “story,” yet 1) it may not be true; and 2) he set you up as a target from the start.
Anyone in a position of authority with vulnerable people (as a teacher is), has no excuse for inappropriate come-ons, touching, or “deals” for silence. Period.

I’m early 20’s unhappy regarding my home, boyfriend, work, education, with no motivation.
I suffered verbal and physical abuse for years. Counselling helped little.
I love my boyfriend (eight months) but my insecurities intrude.
We’ve been fighting about our future – we’re opposites in many ways. Yet we’re extremely attached, and compromise or agree to disagree. But lately, we’re both too clingy and needy.
What should we do to improve our relationship? Are we emotionally ready for a long-term committment?

- Unsure

One thing’s certain: YOU are not ready for long-term decisions, while you’re so dissatisfied with your life. Stop treating this relationship as if it’s your only lifeline, and work on your own future – e.g. what further education that would improve your job potential can you reasonably achieve, and what other home situation can you find?
Only when you address personal roadblocks, can you also confront relationship problems. Try counselling again.