Ask AmandaSelf Improvement

Ask Amanda: I’m Not Happy with My Life

posted on March 3, 2017 | by Amanda Holstein

Question:

Hi Amanda,

As the days go by, it seems like I’m stuck in an endless loop. I wake up, go through the daily routine, then go to sleep and repeat day after day. Days, months then before I know it a year goes by and I have still been stuck in this loop. I’m not happy with my life and how it is panning out. I’m tired of being a nobody and want to actually mean something to this world. I want to leave some sort of impact but running this daily routine is not helping. Overall I just want to be happy with life and be content with my mark I’m leaving.

So I guess I’m just asking for some advice on how I can go on living life the way I want, and how I can be happy with my life.

Thanks,
Jason

Answer:

Hi Jason,

I totally understand what you’re feeling and know that you’re certainly not alone! This is a very common feeling, but most people don’t even recognize it. So you’re already a step ahead by wanting to do something about it, which is great!

What you need to do is make a change. Look at each aspect of your life and focus on one at a time. Is it your job that feels mundane? Where you live? Your friends? What you do outside of work? Pick one of these to start with and take action. If it’s your job, then it’s time to rethink your career. And when I say rethink, I mean really think outside of the box! Ignore those inner fears or judgments and just ask yourself what you enjoy doing. This post on writing a personal vision may help with that.

Many times, the problem is that we aren’t doing anything outside of our regular routine. You may need a hobby that truly excites you (which could eventually turn into a career, potentially!). If you want to make a difference in the world, think about what you’re passionate about and start volunteering or looking up events related to that topic in your city. Even if you have the slightest interest in something, go explore it and try it out. It will open your mind, change your way of thinking, and help you discover what you’re passionate about and how to pursue it.

The biggest thing I want you to take away from this is: this is your life and you need to take control of it. You can sit back and go through the motions and let life pass you by, but if you want to find happiness and make a difference, then you need to take action and make a change. You got this!!

xo
Amanda

feature image via Logan Cole Photography