IMPROVING OVER TIME

My son is in Class IX and suffers from mathematics phobia. Please suggest.

Mrs. T. Sinha, Kolkata

The problem your son is suffering from is very common among students. In our traditional mathematics classrooms, the subject poses a nightmare for those who have a slower grasping capacity. But mathematics can get really interesting with proper tutoring. What is fun is easy to learn. Online mathematics games, mental maths puzzles and introducing your son to the examples of day-to-day use of mathematics in the practical world can create a whole new excitement about the subject. Encourage him to spend more time with the subject and do not criticise wrong answers. Rather, emphasise on the process of solving the math problems. Changing his mindset towards mathematics no longer being a subject to be scared of and reassuring him that he too can be 'good in maths' can actually do wonders that might even surprise you. Good Luck!

My son is 19 years old and 5.2" feet tall. He suffers from severe inferiority complex. What can we do?

S. Pathak, New Delhi

Napoleon complex or the short man syndrome hits the hardest at the age that your son is in. One way to deal with the complex is to break it down. Please help him understand that everyone on Earth is inferior to someone in some way and superior to someone in some other way. Moreover, he will be really surprised to know that the health benefits of being shorter weigh far more than its disadvantages. And as far as looks are concerned, there is much more to a man's attributes of being tall, that can actually make him look charming and coveted in today's world. Moreover, your son is only 19, so it can be possible to increase height up to the age of 21 years through healthy diet, regular exercise and swimming. All the very best.

I am newly married. My husband is always travelling. I feel very depressed and lonely.

M. Kanak, Noida

I can understand how hard it can be for a newly married couple to stay away from each other. But in today's economy, sometimes travelling becomes a necessity to keep a job. So, in order to cope with the 'being away from each other' syndrome make it a point to stay connected on calls and internet. Reinforce your commitment and trustworthiness towards each other by staying connected. Distance makes the heart grow fonder. When he is not around, you can focus on doing something that you enjoy doing. May be learn something new. Feel lucky that he is not stationed away from you or working for the military. Have some 'me-time' and spend your time finishing all the boring work and save your best moments to enjoy when he returns. Best wishes for the love birds.

I love my husband and we dated for four years before marriage. Off late he is becoming very unromantic. What can I do?

Name withheld

During the courtship period, lovers put their best foot forward. But post a few years of marriage, partners usually start taking things for granted. That is where the problem creeps in. If you find your husband being unromantic, try finding ways to seduce him.

Go for candlelit dinners, movies or even indulge in a long vacation together to a romantic place where there is no external interference. Try to figure out what he expects from you. Sometimes if a woman is very bossy in a marriage, the husband shuns from being himself. I would suggest you communicate with him clearly about your wants and walk towards an amicable solution. All the best!

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