I hate getting my hopes up

[Singletsong]

Just that really. How to pursue dreams, but still hold things lightly?

Have been trying to buy our first home for several years, and keep just missing out.

Oh buying first home is tough. I remember an old (older) colleague going through it and when the first one fell through they decided never to get emotionally attached to a house before the sale had gone through again! Give yourself a break before going straight into the next thing.

I think on balance the answer is in your OP, you do always have to maintain hope as what else is there- learn any lessons, and trust that when one door shuts, another one opens - what's meant for you finds you eventually!

If I get my hopes dashed I always look on it as a good thing, whatever it was wouldn’t have bought me happiness and something better is out there waiting! Applies to men, houses, clothes, everything really. I’m not saying don’t be disappointed but don’t let that last too long onwards and upwards!