Should I be worried about my relationship?

[Fassarii]

My name is Elise and I have been dating my boyfriend for a year and a half. We've had many ups and downs during our time together but it is evident that we both care about each-other. He gets along with my family and I feel that I get along with most of his family, as well. This past Saturday was his sister's graduation party from high school and I really wanted to be there but I couldn't because of a school conflict. I got her a card and 2 gift cards to say congratulations. Anyways, my boyfriend and his dad were talking at the party and his dad asked him if he felt like he was settling. His dad told him that he knows he might have been in the past and wanted to make sure he wasn't doing that with me. Not to toot my own horn, but I am a pretty capable individual. I am currently a Special Education teacher and am getting my master's in school counseling. Although my boyfriend is successful, he did drop out of high school and got his GED. He has now been working in construction for the past 7 years. He does well for himself so I'm proud of him, but I do not believe in any way that he is settling for me. I think we both have things to offer and that should be recognized by others. Anyways, my question is.. should I be worried about his dad saying that? Should I re-think our relationship (we have been having many arguments lately and I'm not sure if we're meant to be)? Any input would be helpful. Thank you!!

[caring__1]

The issue appears to be communication rather than his father. If you are arguing, then both of you are more interested in being heard than hearing and understanding the other. This leads the other to feel minimized and irrelevant. If you want this relationship to survive, I'd suggest the two of you find a therapist who specializes in communication and then learn effective communication skills together.

Worry is a waste of time. When we worry, we focus on things out of our control. When we care, we focus on things within our control. Focusing on things out of your control will never take you to a positive place or give you a positive outcome.

[LazerBean]

Men rarely care about what a woman's jobs and education are, so I highly doubt those had anything to do with his dad's comment about settling. Much more likely its something about your personality or values. Definitely worth looking into more.

[AsunderingNova]

I think you should be more concerned what your boyfriend thinks, not so much his father :)

[AsunderingNova]

Thanks for liking my answer! :)
I sent you a dm, if you are comfortable giving me some advice/support/opinions.
Thanks! :)