What do you do to make you feel content?

[Ifyouarehappyandyouknowit123]

I live a good life in South East Asia as an expat, I have got a great job (not great pay, but we do better than we would in England) and have a good work life balance. I have two children who are toddlers.
I recently visited home and started to think about moving back to England and will be happy with a 'normal' life and house.
I am always looking to the next thing and always want change. What do you do to make you feel content?

I could have written this post! I'm also an expat and before moving couldn't wait to arrive and was so excited for my new life. Now I'm here, I'm longing for my life at home. Clearly, I'm never happy and definitely need advice on how to be content with your lot!

I remember reading somewhere that it was common for people with mental health problems to keep moving as they always think their situation is environmental (I'm sure it is sometimes!) but actually realise they are still the same person with the same issues even in new places. That's definitely true of me.

I am glad it isn't just me!! How long have you been abroad for?

I am not someone who is easily contented and actually I’ve moved around a fair bit, having done 2 stints living overseas. I am now wanting to move back to my hometown. Because I am restless and struggle to find contentment with big things, I focus in on the small things I can influence more easily, like gardening and crafting/creative projects.

That's good advice @Aozora13. I tend to think big as well and am very impulsive. Never understand why everyone is so worried about my big decisions and then after the thrill has worn off, I start to share their views. Framing it like that - think small - has given me food for thought and definitely something I could try and work on.

I've only been away for three months @Ifyouarehappyandyouknowit123 🫣🫣. Shine has already worn off and I'm finding myself back on Rightmove looking at properties in my home town! My brain is weird.

Also hugely restless and chasing highs over here!

I am the same - always chasing the next high. I have ADHD.

Funny you should say that. I have always wondered but haven't wanted to self diagnose. I also have OCD (as do my siblings) and now wondering if it's to symptomatic of something else going on.

@lisrn123 I only really started thinking about it once I got married and had kids - now I have other people to consider I can’t just drift about the same way! I also married someone the complete opposite to me: DH has lived in the same area, followed the same career and had the same hobbies all his life pretty much. He’s definitely a grounding influence!

I enjoy the comfort and security of my home.
I live in a rural area, may seem dull to some, but there are hidden treasures in the everyday.
I work hard to keep mentally healthy, despite life challenges ( I care for 2 adult family members) and have ongoing therapy dealing with childhood trauma- which is hard going and at times painful- but the therapy is life changing for me.

I also work full time from home which I love, attend almost daily yoga classes and meditation every morning.

On the whole I am content. I have no desire to move.