Anyone else finding things tough?

[Thereisalwaysanothertime]

Sure it’s been done before. But are others finding life hard going at the moment. Obviously globally things are tough, but closer to home I just feel tired and worn out. I just seem to feel lower more often than I used to. Family, children (exam season), the mental load etc.
And then look wider afield and everything just seems a bit crap. NHS, education, less effort in customer service, everything and anything costing so much money with often average experience. Is it just me! Hard to snap out of!

Yes I'm struggling at the moment.

Single, no kids, I have a good job and savings but no idea wtf is coming next.

I think that’s part of it. Just going along with no idea what the next big thing will be, or even the little things which add up.
The goalposts always being moved as you approach them.

What do you want to come next?

I was just wondering the other day if this pervasive feeling might be to do with feeling that if "treat" things, that we used to do, to cheer ourselves up, cost money, then pretty much everything costs noticeably more in the last year or so.

Or one of the contributing factors.

For eg, you might think "let's take the family to the cinema/day out/takeaway" insert your treat of choice, you likely have to really think about. Being frivolous and spontaneous is harder.

Also, talking with a group of people recently, felt like COVID was hard to believe that we had those restrictions. And maybe a lingering hangover from that

Basic treats cost a lot more money now. Particular if you have children. Eating out is astronomical really. And I often find it a bit sub standard. Smaller portions, poorer quality and average service. It’s not money well spent.

I think I did want the next step of a relationship but I freaked out and sabotaged mine so it's over.

I need to heal and I know having a partner in life would mean a lot to me.

Do you know what you'd like the next thing to be?

My family life is good. But the management and running of it is feels full on. I want a calmer life!
how old are you? Do you want children?

I'm soon to be 35. I'm unsure on kids but I have always wanted a partner. Despite wanting that I've messed up many a relationship (I'm in therapy right now). I kind of feel like I've been repeating patterns for over 15 years now and I'm scared if I don't break them now I'll leave myself in a mess. I'm already scared I've left it too late.

I am in therapy but I know it will be a long process.

Working on yourself is good. And will benefit you. We all have messed up in some way!