Certainly, Lisa. I mentioned that folks of this demographic are busy with careers and raising young children. Caring for aging parents is a reality for some as well, which is mentioned in the book being discussed here. Youthful expectations are also linked to mid-life malaise. For any given individual, there are many potential culprits.

Thanks so much for this personal anecdote, and I’m glad you enjoyed this post.

A few years ago I heard the formula that Happiness = Reality – Expectations. And I believe that to be true.

Even in a financially secure life and a happy life, we have our ups and downs. The last month I have suffered through the same drudgery of summer outlook and it’s hard to work past it mentally. Especially because I thrive on outdoor time, but then get frustrated when I am stuck indoors for my own health and safety due to extreme heat.

You’re not wrong. Even in a happy life, it’s so hard to not focus on the negative sometimes even as trivial as they may be.

My 30s have definitely been harder than my 20s. Having kids has been a great blessing, but also an extreme energy suck. But I hope to come to better grips with my expectations for this next phase of life, and thankfully without having to work on anything other than what I want going forward, I have rid myself of that stress too.

Thanks for writing a post like this. I appreciate your perspective on it.

Cheers!

Thanks Olaf! I actually haven’t read Be Here Now. It was mentioned in this book, so I’ve made a note to read it.

The first thing I did after recently quitting my job was read Be Here Now by Ram Dass. It was a great way to disconnect and reinstall the importance of appreciating the moment. I will have to give The Happiness Curve a read!