How to feel happy when life isn’t going to plan

[Dumbledormer]

Feeling very low. SAHM with two kids 3 &1. DH is a contractor and work has been slow and hard won recently. This has meant lots of office hours on top of a physical day which for me has meant being on my own a lot with the kids. Currently in a half finished renovation which we were hoping to remortgage to finish which has been declined so feeling very dejected but just trying to look at it being a slightly slower process than we were expecting. Health is a worry as well but doctors have run tests so out of my hands until the results come back. Everyone around us seems to be holidaying, happy and healthy and it all just seems very hard for us at the minute. I’m usually a positive person but I’m really struggling to shake this low mood off this time.

Are you in the SE? It is a glorious day, warm sunny and clear blue sky.

Get you and kids a lolly and sit outside in the sun for a few mins

I find actually talking about what’s good with someone helps me. It’s a bit twee but genuinely listing the things I am thankful for in the day puts it into perspective.

Rather than I’m in an unfinished house (same here), I would try and reframe it as I have a safe and warm place to live.

Getting outside. Even if it feels crap at the time, it will alleviate the overall feeling.

However, some days it’s ok to have a duvet and box set session, but make sure it’s not everyday!

Life is full of ups and downs. The only thing to look at is that even these bad times will pass. It sounds a tough time at the moment and can be very lonely on your own with kids . Stay strong and connected with your DH and get through it together . I agree it seems harder when you see others seemingly doing well with holidays, etc. But there will be holidays in the future for you. I am going through something similar atm but am old enough that I have experienced lows before and came through it .