Life has its up and downs but sometimes in a down cycle, we think it will last forever.  We get impatient and that can lead to frustration and depression.  We have to remind ourselves that this phase will pass and the challenge is not to let it change us for the worse.  Likewise, the good times don’t always last either so we need to appreciate them and not take them for granted.

Change is a part of life but it is a very complicated thing to deal with.  Some people (myself included) are not very comfortable with making changes.  However, when things are constantly changing around you then sometimes if we don’t react and change fast enough then we can feel stuck or left behind.  Then it is hard not to wonder when things will change for us too.  I guess it is about finding the right balance of welcoming change but also being comfortable while things are stagnant and not feeling in a rut.  It is difficult to find that balance when we constantly compare to those around us and judge ourselves by their standards.  Some people are waiting for the right partner, trying to have a child, looking for the right job opportunity, etc.  Most people are either looking for the next change or dealing with it.  While we wait, however, we need to focus on our present situation and enjoy it because we might miss out on something while obsessing over the future.

Maybe we’re single and don’t want to be?  Then we should focus on our personal growth or spend time with friends since that dynamic changes when in a relationship.  Maybe we are not able to have a child yet?  Then we should enjoy all the activities that would be limited as a parent and possibly build bonds with the other children in our lives.  Maybe we are looking for the next job opportunity?  We need to find something to appreciate in our existing position and provide value or take it a little easier and channel our mind into other things.  Basically no one thing in our lives will bring complete happiness so we need to find a balance and not obsess over the changes we are looking for.  I do agree that keeping an eye on the next thing can keep us going and fuel ambition but too much of it can just fuel dissatisfaction.

We should try to find a better balance and be in a happier place overall.  Everyone’s lives have a different path and a different timeline.  Yet each life has purpose and value.  Sometimes people want a greater purpose and are looking for greater success.  This desire can also be satisfied by doing good in the world.  Be a good friend or family member or serve in the community and you will feel more valuable.  This may also help us get over our insecurities during the down times and keep us from dwelling on what is missing.  It is easier said than done but baby steps can help us being happier in our present situations.  Think about the positive side of things in your life today!