To wonder if anyone enjoys their lives

[MrsHoodwink]

May sound a bit melodramatic but I mean in the sense that I get up, school run, cleaning, school pick up, cooking, more cleaning, exhausting bedtime routine (two DC’s under 6yrs that share a room)...

Sit and look at my empty bank balance/debts, look at my shitty council house that I’m trapped in and it’s the same every day like Groundhog Day.

The entire time being screamed at by two smaller versions of me, one with autism. Surely this isn’t it I get that I chose to have kids but I didn’t think there would be no enjoyment left (apart from the little moments with them of course! But I mean day-to-day living)

Aibu to think there must people out there genuinely happy most of the time And if so... how do you do it?!

his lunchtime instead of doing the dishes the dog and I went and sat on the grassy bit of park in the middle of our estate in the sunshine. I have a damp bum now but for 10 minutes there I was free and happy with my eyes closed enjoying the warmth of the sun on my face and listening to the birds.

This is lovely. I also find the smallest things are the most pleasurable and time in nature can really make you feel better. It doesn't cost anything and its good for the soul.

Having kids certainly can fuck up one's life
I love mine to death and would do anything for them, but fuck me, the relentlessness ...

@MrsHoodwink I'm really sorry things are so tough for you right now, but for what it's worth it sounds like you are pouring all you have into raising children and keeping it all together at the moment, which I admire immensely. I don't have children myself so I'm sorry not to have advice, but I really hope things get easier for you soon. @Leafyhouse said if best!

*it

Flyaway, same here. I try to get outside in the sun and shut my eyes.I do think nature can help people be happy although in some areas it can be hard to find even a roadside bench never mind a bit of scrub grass to sit on.

I enjoy my life

I enjoy my life.
I’m a single parent of 3 with a hectic professional job, on the outside people think I must be stressed and too busy but I’m not I love it.
It’s not perfect of course, I have very long days and don’t get to spend as much time with my children as I’d like. But I have to work and feel lucky that I’m doing something that I love. I’d like more money for treats but I’m lucky that I can cover what I need to.
I love my life being full and would feel unhappy if it wasn’t. I have my home, family, brilliant friends and a job that I’m good at and make a difference in.
I think you just have to start building a life that you enjoy, otherwise it won’t happen.

Perspective is everything.
I too have a council house and a SEN child.. the early days were tough but asbtheyre older I’m finding me again and do enjoy life. Even simple things like a bubble bath or getting my nails done give me joyful moments. Look for the good moments, not the whole package and things will seem brighter

I love life but only because having had such a shitty time in the past, I’m forced to appreciate it and realise that your luck can change, so please never think “this is my life forever”. I was a single mum of 2 small kids with an abusive ex who took pleasure in emotionally abusing them and me.

10 years on my life has changed beyond recognition just by happening to meet the right person. Dh is an incredible step dad to my kids showering us all with love, cushions me from the brunt of life. We are off skiing tomorrow and I feel happy and content.
I have had nothing and now I have everything and the one thing I have learnt is that everything is transient; you can never, ever predict the future.