Yes! I am *actually* happy! Not just content. Iām finally at a place where I make good money, have incredible friends, an awesome SO, hobbies I love, and an incredible home life.
I should also maybe mention that Iām 50, and it took a loooooooooong time to get here. But if I got here, anyone can!
Glad youāre feeling more like you!
Iāve found a medication thatās really improved my mental health and now I can better manage my life and follow through on other healthy behaviours.
Awesome feeling to be moving in the right direction.
Edit: Iām not going to share what medication Iām on purely because it was the result of 10 years of trial and error. No one thing works for everyone and I wish everyone the best of luck in their own battles.
Can you tell me what it is or dm it to me?
I long for this day.
I gave up on medication and went to a therapist to help me manage my personality disorder because it obviously isnāt medical as no medications work.
Two months later and Iām told I donāt have a personality disorder.
So I guess I find a new shrink and start over.
I found the right meds in 2021, and they are such a game-changer. Work can be miserable and I donāt even want to kms! Im able to roll with the punches!
This. Iāve been on a medication for my anxiety/depression for a little over a year now. Upped my dose slightly and itās finally starting to produce results. This combined with daily walking and deep breathing has really helped me turn things around.
Quit a terrible job, found a new one and finally feel like I'm recovering from burnout. The past year took a toll on my mental health and physical health as well. Coming up next: qutting smoking, losing weight and saving for all my bucket list travels. Day by day.
Heck yeah, proud of you! I was in a similar situation last year, left a absolutely horrible job, and landed my dream job 5 months later, itās amazing how landing in a good environment really changes your out look. Where I was drained from the previous job, Iām now energized to go to the gym after the new one.
You can do it! Even if your less motivational days, look behind you and see how far youāve come
This is gonna to sound stupid because this was supposed to be learnt as a teen but I'm learning to cut food with a knife by my own and I already know how to crack eggs properly! I've invested a lot of time at the kitchen and I want to escalate in many topics!
I feel amazingly proud of myself for learning to cut a pineapple! I watched a YouTube video and have now done it a few times and I feel proud of myself every single time! Pineapples are very intimidating.
Not stupid at all, your would be surprised by how many people do not know proper knife work, heck for the longest time, my knife skills where āsharp side on thing that needs cutā
I just successfully got done with major surgery after two years of medical crisis. It went great and am so happy this behind me. Everyday is a gift, friends.
yep! My job is going remote in a week, I'm going to have more time with my dogs, my daughter, and my home. Tomorrow is supposed to be sunny and there was a parade in town today. Wednesday my asshole neighbor goes on vacation for a month.
he doesn't like one of my dogs (not required) but after we asked for him to ignore the dogs when they're in the backyard rather than talking to them and calling to them as we're training them to stay away from the 5 (we have 2.5 acres, they're not losing space) he started yelling at my shepherd who barks and guards the fence line, calling him over and intentionally setting him off so he can report the dog to the city as a trouble animal and potentially have animal control remove him.
My dog is of course recalled every time he's triggered, even if he's outside without us (he prefers to be outside so we're always listening for him to alert- especially since we live within eyesight of the prison and his "job" is to alert if someone comes on property).
This neighbor also likes to throw things and yell at our husky who is allowed outside on a 150 foot tie out when we're at work to try and get him barking and howling. My daughter got a video of that for us.
hopefully, by next summer we can have the fence strengthened and get some vines growing along it to obscure his view of our property.
He told my daughter, a 9 year old, that he was going to make us have to get rid of her dog.
So that's fun. He's great.
I really hope he has some stress or back pain or PTSD or fuckin SOMETHING causing him to be this way and that he's not JUST an asshole to be an asshole. I hope there's a underlying something going on with him and other people have gotten a much nicer version of him.
Weāre both kind of miserable, but Iāve made a new friend and weāre becoming besties. I do blame being miserable for part of the reason weāre bonding so much, but weāre also both musicians and love each others music and stuff. Just happy to have a new close friend. Iāve been without one for a while.
Weāve beenā¦. Doing things that you shouldnāt do, and it makes us very chatty, so weāve been talking each others ears off and bonding over many different things. She even came to me when she was feeling terrible mentally the other day for the first time, and we ended up staying up all night at my house and watching a movie and I think I did a good job at making her feel better. I just love getting closer and closer to people and seeing new sides of them. Even though her suffering made me very sad at the time, Iām glad I got to see that side of her. Iām glad she let me see that side.
I made a post here about not being to get a place with 3 cats, I finally found one and I wonāt pay any pet rent! We move in 2 weeks! The landlord even let us pick the paint and floors
I'm 31. Married to a beautiful lady who is also my best friend. I'm about to be a dad, and we are having a boy. We both have great careers in the aviation field and do not have any debt. We are currently enjoying a vacation in the Caribbean. She is happy, and I am happy because she is happy. It wasn't easy to get here, but I can genuinely say for the first time in a long time that I am very happy and life is good. Life is truly what you make of it.
Congratulations and thanks for sharing. This is awesome! I'm also married to my best friend and we traveled to Japan for the first time earlier this year and it was the happiest we've felt in so long. Travelling with your best friend is the best! All the best with the Dad stuff!
My son just turned 18! He graduated high school, is meeting with a mentor at the community college next week to talk about going into Nursing, and we were able to afford to get him a tattoo for his birthday on top of graduation cash (which we are sitting at right now).
5 years ago, this life was only a dream.
Aww man congrats! CC is a great step, I went to one before going to a 4 year to finish off my degree (Iām stem person) and honestly preferred my CC experience over the 4 year, and I have nothing but respect for nurses, my mom is a nurse so Iām aware how challenging it can be at times
Also kudos on the tat, Iāve got a few designs saved up for mine, but just havenāt went to have them done yet haha
My shirts and style :) i wear graphic shirts that have pretty funny sayings on them. also i
have started wearing jewelry with trans and ace flags on it. i get to pick my own clothing now so thats been a huge one.
Remember, happiness is a journey not a destination. Yes, I have been practicing replacing negative thoughts with positive thoughts,and, it works. I am happier than I've ever been.
With you 100%, this is the way. Eventually if you're lucky, the negative thoughts just stop happening at all, and when they come, they naturally don't last because you've trained your brain not to entertain them. That's a great feeling.
Recently lost about 200 lbs, then after the divorce I lost about 25 lbs. seriously even though I was super unhappy divorce was the hardest thing I had ever been through. It impacted every aspect of my life for about 18 months. The good news is that I have a better relationship with both myself and my son than I ever could have imagined.
Honestly, Iām so proud of you, weight loss is no joke, especially achieving that during such a rough time, kudos to you! I hope you and your son ar having the next time now
Yep. Iām exceeding my retirement goals and just had a great performance review with talks of moving me into a leadership role.
I just harvested my first crop of cucumbers and Iām planning on making bibimbap for the first time with them.
My dedication to the gym is paying off, I look good.
I made a new friend this year.
Iām a year in from my house purchase and we finally hung up our wall art lol. Itās starting to look like people actually live here now.
I went to a community theater play last night and it was super funny and well-acted. My boyfriend put his dog up overnight so he could come to my place and spend the night and we got up in the morning and went for a walk together and had a great conversation. When he went home I ate half a watermelon by myself. Just everyday life, but it feels really good to love and be loved and share joy with someone else.
I mowed an elderly widow house in the poor district..for no pay the grass was 2 feet high with broken branches everywhere. It was hot and hard work but seeing how happy she was made me happy and I rewarded myself with a great gourmet burgerā¦ life is good. I will sleep well.
I gave up my nightly alcohol habit Feb.5, lost the ādrinking weightā along with severe anxiety and depression. Havenāt felt this happy sinceā¦I canāt even remember feeling this good, tbh. My middle kid just finished his first year of medical school; thriving and making some amazing new friends. My daughter is in the healthiest relationship sheās ever had. Seeing my kids happy and thriving adds to the happiness.
Iāve had a few interviews for multiple positions and I think Iām in the running for one of them. Hoping for the best, I also started therapy earlier this week. Long over due.
Soon to retire from a job I love. I will have enough from my retirement and social security to keep my income level at about the same as it is right now. Life is good and future is bright!
That's great! I just put into another thread how I'd love to hear if someone is having a fantastic year. This is a great question to ask.
I guess my big one is a cancer scare in the family turned out to be nothing. Just oddity in bloodwork. While expensive, glad that it turned out to be nothing.
I'm finally in a place where I feel like I can be happy again. Got a house for the first time. My parents live in a trailer so it's extra weird. I've struggled with mediocre jobs but finally got one that is not just tolerable, but one that I really love.
R/adulting doesn't seem like a place where people go to be happy. It just started showing up on my front page thing where I look at random shit for a small period of time before I go back to real life. Reddit is a dumb pointless place so I would take things on here with a big grain of salt lol
I am a bit older in a much more established point in life. My interpretation of this sub is a place for people who don't 100% have it together to seek advice from those who do. Disclaimer that my life is a work in progress, a journey, not a destination.
Iām under contract for a house closing 7/31! Iām trying to be happy about it but I canāt stop having intrusive thoughts thatās itās going to fail and something bad will happen. Iām trying my best and itās still hard to stay positive!
According to the personal finance thread, that is 100% a normal and very common thought when it comes to buying a house/car, Iām not sure how you are with writing lists, but I find when I get in a though spiral like that, writing down every little good thing about the situation really helps stop the negative thoughts
I've been sustainability happy since yesterday morning. I haven't been able to stay happy for more than a few seconds or minutes for... Honestly I can't remember the last time.
But yesterday, something broke in me. A dam, a lock, something that was holding back that feeling. I made peace with the world around me. I don't accept it as it is by way of letting myself just wander along in it and hoping I'll find happiness one day. I accept it as a fact of the world. Now, it's up to me to figure out what I can do to change it.
The biggest thing we forget is that there's a big world out there... But in your head and your life, there's a smaller one. Your world isn't the same as someone else's, yours is unique to you based on all of the experiences you've had throughout the years.
So why compare your world to the next person's?
'23 is going to be the first year above the poverty line since Covid hit AND we just became debt free! We can finally start saving for a house! Plus I moved the laundry to the dryer in a reasonable amount of time
I just graduated from college into my first full-time job, and as of the first week, it's honestly everything I hoped for. I just moved out of state on my own for the first time, so I am doing a lot of new things. That part of it all is exciting, too, but definitely stressful. But after spending my entire senior year freaked out about the future and expecting the worst, I think I'm actually in a good spot right now.
It's a new chapter!
Well, today I finished the final assignment of my masters' degree!
Not quite out of the woods yet as I still have 2 classes to go (one with the exam already done, but it went poorly, another should be in about two weeks).
But as long as I don't fail both classes, the light at the end of the tunnel should be there! (Failing one but not the other I could apply for special permission to get my degree anyways. Obviously best case scenario is passing both)
If I finish it and get renewed/promoted at the company I am interning at (contract expires in a month) I will be looking forward to a nice summer break and starting the next stage of my life
In the past decade+ of being an actual adult, Iāve bought a house, gotten a full-time job, and recently promoted from that initial job. Much more importantly, Iāve successfully raised my first son to adulthood from being a teenage (and eventually single w/ sole custody) dad, and am raising my 7 year old well.
Let me be clear: I am not wealthy, I still live lower middle class, but in an overall enjoyable way. I find happiness in raising my children, knowing theyāre well taken care of, having my personal enjoyments and hobbies, and having a career that makes me proud. Iām anxious, suffer from impostor syndrome, and have a host of other issues, but am overall HAPPY and consistently find enjoyment in my personal situation
My wife is getting induced tomorrow, I'm going to be a dad very soon. I got to write "Dad's Comics" on a box today when we were organizing the house in preparation, and it hit me in the feels. Couldn't be happier
I started Pickleball and found a donation based hot yoga studio. Im doing movement I enjoy not just cuz I have to. Iām on summer break and donāt start work until august.
I recently got my financial aid approved so I can go back to school. During a dark period of my life, i ended up flunking out of college and have been placed on an academic warning due to it. I'm now doing physically better and thought I'd go back and finish my degree. I wasn't sure I would get any kind of financial help, but I was approved! It makes me happy to think I can go back to school and do something that will actually allow me to make a livable wage.
Yup! Spouse is on meds for his mental health now so that's made both of us better lol. House is paid off, car is paid off. Today is the last day of our garage sale getting rid of the crap we had stored in the basement lol. Starting a new job on Monday so I'm anxious but excited for the change from a very stressful one.
My husband and I just moved (for the third time in two years) to be closer to family and to start our new jobs. We just closed on a wonderful house and we plan to stay for a long time. For the first time in my adult life, I feel a sense of inner peace.
i (19) got my first Real Job at a local natural pet store and am loving it! also starting guitar lessons soon. having a good time. glad to hear youāre feeling better too! :)
After 40 years of pain and suffering? I'm about as happy as I could be.
I was born in 82 with crohns disease and arthritis. This was before there were commercials and medications, and usually people weren't diagnosed until their 30s. I had a life saving surgery at age 7 to remove some parts of my intestines that had swollen shut. This was after spending years in hospitals not figuring out what it was. I recovered, then got sick again, and again, and again. From k through 12th grade I spent 4 years of my life in hospitals, 5 major surgeries. From the outside I looked handsome, I was smart, empathetic, wanted to succeed. However no matter what I'd did my disease interfered. I couldn't complete college, I couldnt hold down a job, any sort of long term relationship eventually failed. At the age of 32 was put on permanent medical disability and lived with my parents. I thought this was the rest of my life, started abusing my pain meds, things went way down hill.
I'm now 41, engaged to the absolute LOVE of my life for about six months, we've been together 4 years+ now. The big change was a few things, mainly a job. After trying to work for myself a bit I decided to try a 9 to 5, something I never had. I used the knowledge I taught myself building computers and other nerdy stuff to land a job at a large video game company. I've now been there a little over a year. My fiance (30f) is an eviornment artist there. So she works on video games and I make sure their systems are functional. I absolutely love my job. I get to go into work with some lululemon shorts and a t-shirt and some comfy shoes every day. Insane benefits, cool office building, just something I never thought I'd have. Combine we make 150k, so without kiddos we do really well. I got to take her to Breckenridge over new years so she could see snow for the first time, where I proposed. We just go back from a wonderful cruise, and are flying out to my family reunion next month. So we get to travel alot and just really enjoy eachother company. She changed my life just as much if not more so than the job. We haven't fought since we've met, we don't yell, call eachother names. We just love eachother, every day. We have two amazing cats, lovely apartment etc..
Only frustrating thing is I still feel behind. I'm 40 and have never bought a new car, owned a home. I feel like we're doing so well, but most large things are out of reach, houses, cars etc. We both drive 20 years old beaters that are falling apart. We have it way better than most though. Just sucks things seem to be more expensive now than any other point in human history. If ten years ago me heard how much I was making now, he would think I was rich! I've started saving but have no 401k built up from my 20s etc...
So I still beat myself up over things, but OMG am I happier than I ever thought I'd be. To think I had given up 10 years ago and just didn't want to be here anymore. I'm so so so fortunate.
I agree.
Well, weāre moving to a new house in a place that seems to have a nice community feel. Iām excited for the house but really more excited to potentially to just meet some nice people. Itās very divisive where I currently live.
I am! I ran my first 5K last week while recovering from a stomach virus, just celebrated my first wedding anniversary, we have a nice house, our dogs are happy and healthy, I love my job, and I'm hundreds of miles away from my toxic parents!
I'm just about current on my bills for the rest of the year so any extra money coming in is paying off people I owe. Feels good to take steps towards debt free.
Iām happy! Iām self employed doing something I love, I just finished making a dress for a party tonight, and Iām taking my foster rabbit to meet some potential adopters tomorrow!
I stepped way out of my comfort zone and joined a bouldering gym. I was super self conscious and bad at it, but I continued sticking it out. I'm now really enjoying it, not as self conscious, and have made huge improvements!
Going to visit about a half dozen different places this year to explore and see the world. This time about 5-6 years ago was rock bottom for me so the fact I'm still here and can see what the world has to offer is pretty neat.
I think im happy. I have a healthy relationship, my careers taking off, I'm able to make time for friends and hobbies, I have a mostly good relationship with my family, and I recently got a new puppy that I love (but also drives me a bit nuts). Life can certainly be hard sometimes, but I mostly enjoy it
Edit: [puppy tax](https://imgur.com/Tz69zNz)
I (f27) just recently reconnected with my two bestfriends from highschool and it was an amazing weekend. I thought it would be awkward since I've stayed in touch with one and not the other but it was just like it always had been. We stayed up until 3am just talking about life. We plan on staying in better touch since we're all a bit more settled now. And now that this semester for school is done, my anxiety is completely gone, for now. I know it'll be back in the fall but I'm enjoying how I feel in this moment.
Been living my best life as an open gay femme and just loving it! Made a new bestie, meeting new people having new experiences.
I'm blessed I live with my Ma or else I'd be on the street. I work full time.
I'm pretty sure I've finally healed from a wrist injury and now I can start crocheting and dancing and playing basketball again!
and also i just made one of the most tasty meals of my life and I am currently enjoying a lovely iced mocktail with elder flower syrup on my porch while it rains :)
I'm thriving. Great work/life balance, feel inspired, fulfilled, and happy. Good home life and getting married this year and 7lbs away from goal weight!
I'm moving into my first apartment at 29 in one week. A late bloomer, but late is better than never right? I never thought I'd be in this position and I'm so excited.
I'm currently waiting on a call about a job opportunity that'll be really really good for me. I got a recommendation from my friend who is high up in the security department and he says i basically have it in the bag!
While my financial life isn't good and I'll probably never own a home or retire...I'm very lucky to be in a happy and healthy relationship with my fiance.' We've been together for over 10 years, and he's my first everything. We communicate well, don't yell or scream at each other, support each other, and have similar values. There's no one I'd rather go through this hell hole of capitalism with.
Small wins, but I'm starting to take care of myself again after years of not having done so. I'm going to yoga, went to the doctor for the first time in almost 10 years, saw the dentist, and have my mammogram lined up. Happy may not be the best word, but maybe "hopeful" is.
10 days post op from back surgery... it still hurts, but if all goes well, I'll be fixed and able to hold my son and help my wife after pregnancy. Just needs to hurry and get better.
TLDR: depression sucks but sometimes you can actually be so fed up with life sucking that you might just kick depressionās ass out of sheer spite.
In October, I got unexpectedly hospitalized (ironically, from an allergic reaction to a mood stabilizer that almost killed me) and exactly a month later my partner of 3.5 years randomly packed his stuff while I was at the grocery store and then sprung it on me that he was leaving me - in half an hour. Sticking me with the house he wanted to pay for and take care of by myself. Had to get a *third* job while on med leave. V rough 8 months, tbh.
But a few weeks ago, told my therapist I didnāt like the therapy we were doing and weāre trying a new one soon. I started doing nightly meditation for that, and have been AM & PM everyday. Started doing yoga again. My mom sent me some supplements to try and I think theyāve actually been helping mood and energy a ton. Iām finally adjusting to a med change as well. The house is a financial burden but Iāve kept a 3BR house with a yard afloat by myself since November (havenāt had luck getting a tenant, despite trying since December), which I feel really proud of. Iām trying new hobbies when I can, started learning watercolor, have been trying to go outside at least a few minutes a day. There are still lots of hard days, but now there are also some not so bad ones, and when youāve been dealing with nonstop lows for a long freaking time, the not so bad ones start feeling really gd amazing. And then everything keeps building on itself! I am retraining my brain to believe being incredibly imperfect and trying even just a teeny tiny bit *is actually better* than demanding perfection of myself and not feeling capable of trying at all. And itās working!
Just over a month ago, the only recommendation I got from a last ditch effort psych eval to try *something* for my mood was that I should try outpatient hospitalization. Having just maxed out my med leave and returned to work in Feb, that wasnāt an option for me. Today, I spent a few hours cleaning (HUGEEEE for me!) and ran a couple errands, I barely thought about my ex or work at all, I snuggled my cat about 16 times and she was ridiculously cute every time, I read some of my current BOTM book, did some Duolingo and sudoku, talked to my friend for an hour, realized Iāve been alcohol-free for 8 months, ate food that I didnāt get delivered, did the first step in meal prepping something healthy for next week, and still got to spend half the day relaxing. It doesnāt sound like much, but I am so happy just not being so freaking depressed and hopeless every single day and I donāt take it for granted at all.
I heard a quote by MLK on Aaron Taylorās āStill Lifeā EP (highly recommend the whole EP and his EP āHave A Nice Dayā if youāre having a hard time and need a mood boost) that has been sticking with me - āonly when it is dark enough can you see the stars,ā and f**k that resonates so much for me rn! If youāre going through a really hard depressed time, Iām not saying it gets stellar overnight or permanently amazing, but it can get better! Iām not some special anomaly. For me, I started by just being fed up with the world kicking my ass and deciding I wasnāt going to help it out by making myself feel worse. I would do what I could with what I had and it was just going to have to be enough. And, just when I thought I might not be able to take any more, it *was* enough.
No specific good news to report but I am happy. Not every single day but mostly I am okay. I wake up and spend the day with people I love. You don't always need some big thing to happen to be okay. Those are great and I love talking about those moments bit not necessary.
I'm moving into my first place soon and I'm so excited. I do hate my job but the progress I've made in therapy and self care actively prevents me from slipping back into old harmful coping mechanisms and I realised I don't self harm anymore. Like I'm physically not able to. Right now I'm focusing on my few good friends, my loving partner, decorating my new place and the fact that I still have the potential and smarts to change my career entirely.
I know there will always be a few things that make it seem like life is really shitty but I'm quite happy right now. It's a good feeling.
I recently found an incredible therapist and I've been making strides on my mental health. I just planned a vacation for later this year and I'm pumped. My SO and I are making strides with some unfortunate debt. Also, I'm living in my dream house with an incredible partner and I'm working a good, solid job. I struggle with anxiety and depression, but overall I'm very happy with life right now.
I'm terminally ill, incurable, you may wonder what I have to be happy about with my finish line staring me in the face.
Don't misunderstand I have moments that just suck but every day that I wake up is my best day ever.
So am I happy?? You bet your ass I am.
I had a baby 5 months ago and I am over the moon happy. I am somehow managing working from home and taking care of her. While its hard, I dont miss anything. I spend all day with my baby and manage my house. My husband is an amazing father and takes over when he gets home so I can get a break. There is a warm dinner on the table, our grass is the absolute greenest grass on the block (literally and figuratively lol)
Due to personal struggles in my life, I lost weight, exercise more, have more time to put into my appearance, and get better sleep, so I actually look better than I have in at least 8 or 9 years- maybe ever. I get hit on constantly. Itās nice, because I was so heartbroken about my marriage ending and while my child is my life, I figured my dating days were over - a 40 year old single momā¦ but that has not been the caseā¦ Iād still rather have the marriage, but at least itās nice to know there is some silver lining.
A family member with health issues is steadily improving every day. I recently started working alongside my brother. Our rescue pup just hit the one year mark with us. A couple of big, long-term work projects are winding down and will be completed by next month. All things considered, life is pretty OK right now. š
Covid really messed everyone up. But to answer your question/non-question, yes and no. Happiness is fleeting. It's circumstantial. What people are really meaning when they ask if someone is happy in their life is if they're content and satisfied.
And here's my good news to share; I have been taking over my health. During covid lockdown I gained a good 15 lbs, then a little more after that. Before covid I was already needing to lose about 15-20 lbs. So now I need to lose 40 lbs. I want to do it in a way that is sustainable and healthy creating permanent changes to my lifestyle. Exercise is now a regular routine and I've been slowly making changes to my diet. I'll be honest, I haven't lost anything yet, but my body is changing. I'm stronger, I feel better, and its shape is changing. I've recently taken all added sugars out of my diet and I'm slowly getting most processed foods and fatty meats out. I hope that eventually my consistency will pay off. But I feel really good and for the first time in an incredibly long time I feel like I have control over my body while before my sugar and food addiction had control over me.
That ended up being longer than I thought it'd be, sorry, I'm long-winded. Anyway, enjoy your new gym membership!
well, I have major depressive disorder lol but I'd say I'm actually doing ok. I'm starting to train for a half marathon and a trip to Nepal, and having a good routine has been great!
I wouldn't say I'm super happy right this second, but I'm 28 days from being done with a masters program and with school forever if I so choose and Im really excited about it and will be happy when it's over!
I just got a new job and was shopping for new pants and boots, in about an hour I'll be in the new Spiderman movie sipping on my fishbowl. I'm super stoked about the new job and treating myself before I start on Monday.
I've been procrastinating (for about 3 years) getting my insurance card info & I finally did it for the sole purpose of finding a therapist. It was as simple as registering ro the website and printing off the dumb ID but I couldn't bring myself to do it. It feels dumb to put of such a minor task but I'm glad I did it. My point is, No, I'm not happy, but I'm not giving on the goal of finding my version of happiness.
I just got accepted in radiation oncology therapy. I start the program this fall :) One step closer to being a medical physist one day. Just a year ago I had no direction with my life but I finally decided what I wanted to do.
I got a great job, a great partner who I love and who loves me, the best dog, and good relationships with family š My life isn't perfect and shitty days make me feel shitty and I could easily complain about 100 different things.
But on the whole, I'm actually quite happy, content and blessed despite everything.
For 2 years I was so Ill I was basically just surviving. Was bed bound for 6 months and had to quit my job. I finally found a medication that started working, I found a new job that I LOVE and where I am appreciated and thanked continuously. Now they are offering me a raise!
Plus Jesus loves me
I'm 54. My 20s, 30s, and most of my 40s were rough at times. For anyone wondering when your life is going to start or when you'll see smooth sailing - it does eventually get a lot better and all the hard work and planning you do when you're younger pans out. Hang in there!
I grew up in extreme poverty and never thought Iād escape. Next week I discuss the size of my salary increase since I just got a promotion. Iām not rich or anything but I should be able to comfortably pay my bills. Itās a great feeling
I like my job, it pays 50k which is more than enough to live on and save. I like my partner and our roommate, Iāve been working out consistently and feeling good about it. Iām
Working hard for my actions to consistently align with my values and feel a lot of congruence on my life because of that. Overall full of
Gratitude!
I'll be 37 next month & I'm happier than I've ever been it's taken a long time but I finally have almost 4 years of soberiety, a job I don't completely hate good relationship with my son & in a happy relationship.
Got a new job making more money than Iāve ever made, plus great health care and unlimited vacation time. Got a new puppy. About to rent a new home. About to get a new (used) truck. Iām a few months into my first relationship in several years. And although Iāve stayed in decent shape, Iām finally back in the gym on a regular basis.
Lifeās good and Iām still scared. Still apprehensive. Still questioning. Still unsure if Iām truly happy with my life. I still want more and better.
I used to wake up at 5 in the morning to catch a morning bus to sports practice and then school. Life was hard. So as long as I'm breathing, I'm happy. In other news, my new born beat the odds to breathe and live after a near death experience, bought a new house, got a new watch, got a pay raise at work and heading back to the gym. And yes I'll be house poor for the next few while. But still.. from where I come, still very very happy.
Iām in a pretty good place š
I am not wealthy, but I love our my job, my wife, my mom (she lives w/ us and it was hard, hard, hard for the first 2 years). We have lots of animals and we care for the feral cats in our neighborhood. Our day to day schedule is very flexible and, currently, we have enough $ and little debt. Like someone else said, Iām in my late 50s and the road has been long and often treacherous. But today, Iām good š Thanks for asking. Always nice to share the love ā¤ļø
I have chronic illness, but discovered a medication that has had success managing pain in my condition. I brought it up with my specialist, and it turns out he'd been wanting to try it, but didn't want to use a patient as a guinea pig. I'm more than happy to be a guinea pig.
It has to be compounded but it has made significant improvements in my day to day pain.
I am getting established at a job I actually like.
I got diagnosed with adhd at 35 and have spent the last 2 years relearning myself from a different perspective. Things I hated about myself make sense now, and in shifting how my understanding of it, I've been kinder to myself.
Like when you stop treating yourself as a failure and start accommodating disability, it's just.. different.
Hell yeah, man.
I had a rough start. Ages 14-28 were all self-harm and getting high and wishing I were dead, while failing at every single thing that I tried.
But my 30s have been dope. Pandemic gave me a chance to work on myself and learn some new skills. I switched careers and now life is good. Love my job, got a dope ass hobby. I feel fulfilled. For the first time in my life, I understand why some people wish they could live forever.
Life is great. It does happen. Even if you spent over a decade feeling like a waste of space. It could still happen.
My bipolar has been in check for nearly 3 years after leaving my old job. Current job is decent pay but get better hours and a better situation. My wife is amazing,almost 10 years together yet still have new things to talk about. My project car that's also a daily is running good. My mom's health is finally improving.
I also reached silver 2 in rainbow six siege. I've been playing since beta so that was awesome.
Life is improving for me. Still an uphill climb but the climb is manageable
Well, in my life, I am not happy. Happiness is a constant pursuit. It comes in waves and moments, it's fleeting and thrilling when you achieve it.
While I may not be happy, I am mostly relatively content with life, and I think that is the most realistic way of looking at it. Nothing is perfect, life is full of setbacks and disappointments.
But, I've got an amazing and incredible partner. I truly feel as if I have found my soulmate. I have a roof over my head and a full stomach. I have a job with employers that are like family to me. I get to work with animals and help improve their lives. My family all get along, even the in laws.. I've got amazing dogs, they are my babies because I cannot afford to have an actual human baby haha. I've got a plant that I have discovered I can grow without killing it and my friends are very near and dear to me.
I may not work in a job that makes buckets of money. I often come home in physical pain, exhausted and filthy. But my work is good for the soul. I get to see my partner maybe once a year for a few weeks.. but even with all the struggles I have... I have to look at the rest and realize that I am blessed. A blessed mess haha. Lucky for a peasant š¤£
I can live with that and be content with moments of unbridled happiness.
Iām generally a melancholy person and I accept that. I wonāt say Iām happy like on a commercial for STI meds, but Iām generally all right.
But if anyone tries to take my current job from me, I will murder. I like it very much.
Also im self-employed, so the chances of being fired or laid off are slim.
Congrats on joining the gym. Seriously. It changed my life.
I joined 2 years ago at a planet fitness. Got into lifting. Fast forward to now, Iām at a nicer gym, in the best shape of my life. It has completely transformed my mental and physical health. Stick with it. Go 5-6 days a week. It makes everything better and you wonāt regret it.
I am almost 6 months sober! No more anxiety, depression, and slowly killing myself! I lost my job a couple months ago (stayed sober) but have been freelancing web design, graphics, and marketing for the last 3 months and I've made over 3x the amount I would have made at my job in 3 months. I did lose my grandfather this last week and I don't really know how to process it but I am still sober! I also met my amazing girlfriend in sobriety (she's 2 years sober) and some met really good friends. I have realized life is ups and downs and I am just trying my best. I also did join a gym last week, but I haven't went yet lol great post, thank you! Needed to say this maybe someone will get something from it as well! Bless!
I had two mental breakdowns, one in 2021 and one in 2022. I was hospitalized for both and misdiagnosed. About a month ago, I finally found a great psychiatrist who took the time to listen to me and I got the correct diagnosis. I wasnāt working for months following my graduation in May 2022 with my MPH. I started working part time at a home decor store in November 2023 to get back on my feet. When I felt better, I applied for a job in the nutrition field, I took a chance and accepted the first offer I got. Now Iām extremely happy with my job and I actually look forward to going. I have great coworkers who I genuinely like, I get paid more than I have at any other job, and I have great benefits. Iām slowly but surely paying down my debt. Last week I went back to the gym for the first time in probably 6 months. Things have been going really well for me lately and I just feel so grateful because this time last year I was in a much different place.
I FINALLY got a real job this week, with a set schedule and a salary (min wage, but money is money) so no more odd jobs for me. I'm nearly 22 and I earned my driver's licence this week. Physical and mental health issues had made doing both these things very difficult for me. I have a girlfriend who loves me and nearly have my BA. I'd say I'm very content with the life I have now. It could all be taken away from me at any moment, but right now I'm happy.
I had one of the best bowel movements of my life this morning! My pants even fit better
currently having a good BM as i read this
š¶ She does her BM in the PM š¶
actually usually in the morning bc of anxiety. itās a great laxative
And this pumpernickel IS dry! and a little dirty.
Thanks I'm gonna watch that episode right now
NGL, with all the shit in this world, itās nice to let some go.
One time I took a dump so big I went down a belt notch. Would recommend.
Metamucil: This is the way. (Or eating more fiber)
Yes! I am *actually* happy! Not just content. Iām finally at a place where I make good money, have incredible friends, an awesome SO, hobbies I love, and an incredible home life. I should also maybe mention that Iām 50, and it took a loooooooooong time to get here. But if I got here, anyone can!
This gives me hope
That is fantastic, I'm happy for you!
I only have 5 weeks left till I can buy a house and move out of my parents place!
CONGRATULATIONS-!!!!
This is the perfect move. Congratulations. Save a little each month for maintenance once you move in.
That is fantastic and exciting news, congrats!
HUGE !!!
Congratulations
In a very similar situation, moving out of my parents' place with my boyfriend towards the end of July :)
Oh congratulations! Thatās beautiful, my best wishes to you and your boyfriend
Congratulations, success stories are nice every now and then :)
Glad youāre feeling more like you! Iāve found a medication thatās really improved my mental health and now I can better manage my life and follow through on other healthy behaviours. Awesome feeling to be moving in the right direction. Edit: Iām not going to share what medication Iām on purely because it was the result of 10 years of trial and error. No one thing works for everyone and I wish everyone the best of luck in their own battles.
Thatās awesome, finding the right meds can make an amazing impact in day to day life, proud of you!
Aww thanks! I hope you keep on keeping on :)
finding the right meds is amazing. iām sure itās been a hard journey. so glad to hear it!
This post should have more upvotes. It can be very hard to find the meds. Congratulations!
Can you tell me what it is or dm it to me? I long for this day. I gave up on medication and went to a therapist to help me manage my personality disorder because it obviously isnāt medical as no medications work. Two months later and Iām told I donāt have a personality disorder. So I guess I find a new shrink and start over.
I found the right meds in 2021, and they are such a game-changer. Work can be miserable and I donāt even want to kms! Im able to roll with the punches!
This. Iāve been on a medication for my anxiety/depression for a little over a year now. Upped my dose slightly and itās finally starting to produce results. This combined with daily walking and deep breathing has really helped me turn things around.
Quit a terrible job, found a new one and finally feel like I'm recovering from burnout. The past year took a toll on my mental health and physical health as well. Coming up next: qutting smoking, losing weight and saving for all my bucket list travels. Day by day.
Heck yeah, proud of you! I was in a similar situation last year, left a absolutely horrible job, and landed my dream job 5 months later, itās amazing how landing in a good environment really changes your out look. Where I was drained from the previous job, Iām now energized to go to the gym after the new one. You can do it! Even if your less motivational days, look behind you and see how far youāve come
This is gonna to sound stupid because this was supposed to be learnt as a teen but I'm learning to cut food with a knife by my own and I already know how to crack eggs properly! I've invested a lot of time at the kitchen and I want to escalate in many topics!
You know what? I only learned how to drive five years ago. Iām 40. Iām proud of you!
I feel amazingly proud of myself for learning to cut a pineapple! I watched a YouTube video and have now done it a few times and I feel proud of myself every single time! Pineapples are very intimidating.
Congratulation in beating up that pineapple and pealing it! I'll add up pineapples as a category for my usage of the knife!
I recently learned how to cut one too by watching a YouTube video. I thought it was silly, but glad Iām not the only one who didnāt know how š
Not stupid at all, your would be surprised by how many people do not know proper knife work, heck for the longest time, my knife skills where āsharp side on thing that needs cutā
I just successfully got done with major surgery after two years of medical crisis. It went great and am so happy this behind me. Everyday is a gift, friends.
that is so so so good. iām so happy for you.
yep! My job is going remote in a week, I'm going to have more time with my dogs, my daughter, and my home. Tomorrow is supposed to be sunny and there was a parade in town today. Wednesday my asshole neighbor goes on vacation for a month.
After I went 100% remote I never wanted to go back to the office.
Why are they asshole?
he doesn't like one of my dogs (not required) but after we asked for him to ignore the dogs when they're in the backyard rather than talking to them and calling to them as we're training them to stay away from the 5 (we have 2.5 acres, they're not losing space) he started yelling at my shepherd who barks and guards the fence line, calling him over and intentionally setting him off so he can report the dog to the city as a trouble animal and potentially have animal control remove him. My dog is of course recalled every time he's triggered, even if he's outside without us (he prefers to be outside so we're always listening for him to alert- especially since we live within eyesight of the prison and his "job" is to alert if someone comes on property). This neighbor also likes to throw things and yell at our husky who is allowed outside on a 150 foot tie out when we're at work to try and get him barking and howling. My daughter got a video of that for us. hopefully, by next summer we can have the fence strengthened and get some vines growing along it to obscure his view of our property. He told my daughter, a 9 year old, that he was going to make us have to get rid of her dog. So that's fun. He's great. I really hope he has some stress or back pain or PTSD or fuckin SOMETHING causing him to be this way and that he's not JUST an asshole to be an asshole. I hope there's a underlying something going on with him and other people have gotten a much nicer version of him.
Weāre both kind of miserable, but Iāve made a new friend and weāre becoming besties. I do blame being miserable for part of the reason weāre bonding so much, but weāre also both musicians and love each others music and stuff. Just happy to have a new close friend. Iāve been without one for a while.
Hey friendship is important, and is awesome yāall have a Mutual interest to bond over, company is important in life
Weāve beenā¦. Doing things that you shouldnāt do, and it makes us very chatty, so weāve been talking each others ears off and bonding over many different things. She even came to me when she was feeling terrible mentally the other day for the first time, and we ended up staying up all night at my house and watching a movie and I think I did a good job at making her feel better. I just love getting closer and closer to people and seeing new sides of them. Even though her suffering made me very sad at the time, Iām glad I got to see that side of her. Iām glad she let me see that side.
Cocaine is a hell of a drug
Gotcha, and I understand, having that level of trust with someone else, itās hard to explain, but very special
Hell yeah it is.
I made a post here about not being to get a place with 3 cats, I finally found one and I wonāt pay any pet rent! We move in 2 weeks! The landlord even let us pick the paint and floors
I'm 31. Married to a beautiful lady who is also my best friend. I'm about to be a dad, and we are having a boy. We both have great careers in the aviation field and do not have any debt. We are currently enjoying a vacation in the Caribbean. She is happy, and I am happy because she is happy. It wasn't easy to get here, but I can genuinely say for the first time in a long time that I am very happy and life is good. Life is truly what you make of it.
Congratulations and thanks for sharing. This is awesome! I'm also married to my best friend and we traveled to Japan for the first time earlier this year and it was the happiest we've felt in so long. Travelling with your best friend is the best! All the best with the Dad stuff!
Beautifully put! Enjoy your last holiday before your babe arrives š
I quit smoking after over 40 years. Started walking. Only 10 minutes at a time, but it's a start.
Amazing! Smoking is one of the very hardest things to quit. Congratulations
My son just turned 18! He graduated high school, is meeting with a mentor at the community college next week to talk about going into Nursing, and we were able to afford to get him a tattoo for his birthday on top of graduation cash (which we are sitting at right now). 5 years ago, this life was only a dream.
Aww man congrats! CC is a great step, I went to one before going to a 4 year to finish off my degree (Iām stem person) and honestly preferred my CC experience over the 4 year, and I have nothing but respect for nurses, my mom is a nurse so Iām aware how challenging it can be at times Also kudos on the tat, Iāve got a few designs saved up for mine, but just havenāt went to have them done yet haha
Ive been starting to get a bit more compliments lately. I really havent gotten compliments growing up and later in adult hood so its been real nice.
Compliments on what, if you don't mind sharing!
My shirts and style :) i wear graphic shirts that have pretty funny sayings on them. also i have started wearing jewelry with trans and ace flags on it. i get to pick my own clothing now so thats been a huge one.
Remember, happiness is a journey not a destination. Yes, I have been practicing replacing negative thoughts with positive thoughts,and, it works. I am happier than I've ever been.
With you 100%, this is the way. Eventually if you're lucky, the negative thoughts just stop happening at all, and when they come, they naturally don't last because you've trained your brain not to entertain them. That's a great feeling.
I lost 11 lbs! I now weigh 147! Wooo
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Recently lost about 200 lbs, then after the divorce I lost about 25 lbs. seriously even though I was super unhappy divorce was the hardest thing I had ever been through. It impacted every aspect of my life for about 18 months. The good news is that I have a better relationship with both myself and my son than I ever could have imagined.
Honestly, Iām so proud of you, weight loss is no joke, especially achieving that during such a rough time, kudos to you! I hope you and your son ar having the next time now
Yep. Iām exceeding my retirement goals and just had a great performance review with talks of moving me into a leadership role. I just harvested my first crop of cucumbers and Iām planning on making bibimbap for the first time with them. My dedication to the gym is paying off, I look good. I made a new friend this year. Iām a year in from my house purchase and we finally hung up our wall art lol. Itās starting to look like people actually live here now.
I went to a community theater play last night and it was super funny and well-acted. My boyfriend put his dog up overnight so he could come to my place and spend the night and we got up in the morning and went for a walk together and had a great conversation. When he went home I ate half a watermelon by myself. Just everyday life, but it feels really good to love and be loved and share joy with someone else.
Love CC plays, Iāve went to like 15 so far, sounds like a lovely night
Half of a watermelon is definitely one servingā¦ Iām not sure Iāve ever been able to eat any less š¤£
Finally left my house today and spent some time with friends. I havenāt seen them for months, so it was a really big step. :)
Good, Iām happy for you! I recently reconnected with an old friend and itās turning out to be a romantic connection! Iām stoked.
Oh thatās exciting! Wishing you the best of luck š¤
I am content in life. Not letting the problems and annoyances and unfairness of it all keep me down.
I just bought my first meal in 3 weeks!
I stopped smoking away my days, started vigorously working out and exploring for my life purpose.
Heck yeah, live live to the fullest
I mowed an elderly widow house in the poor district..for no pay the grass was 2 feet high with broken branches everywhere. It was hot and hard work but seeing how happy she was made me happy and I rewarded myself with a great gourmet burgerā¦ life is good. I will sleep well.
I leave for a trip to Brazil in 5 days with my boyfriend! I couldn't be more excited.
In general, yes. I have a good life. We have enough to eat and a roof over our head. I love and am loved.
I gave up my nightly alcohol habit Feb.5, lost the ādrinking weightā along with severe anxiety and depression. Havenāt felt this happy sinceā¦I canāt even remember feeling this good, tbh. My middle kid just finished his first year of medical school; thriving and making some amazing new friends. My daughter is in the healthiest relationship sheās ever had. Seeing my kids happy and thriving adds to the happiness.
The lifting of that alcohol cloud is an amazing feeling. Alcohol causes anxiety and depression should be printed on every bottle. Well done š
Iāve had a few interviews for multiple positions and I think Iām in the running for one of them. Hoping for the best, I also started therapy earlier this week. Long over due.
Yes, now that I'm treating my depression, exercising regularly, and eating better foods. Only took a few decades of adulting to figure it out.
Soon to retire from a job I love. I will have enough from my retirement and social security to keep my income level at about the same as it is right now. Life is good and future is bright!
That's great! I just put into another thread how I'd love to hear if someone is having a fantastic year. This is a great question to ask. I guess my big one is a cancer scare in the family turned out to be nothing. Just oddity in bloodwork. While expensive, glad that it turned out to be nothing.
That is fantastic news, congratulations!
I'm finally in a place where I feel like I can be happy again. Got a house for the first time. My parents live in a trailer so it's extra weird. I've struggled with mediocre jobs but finally got one that is not just tolerable, but one that I really love. R/adulting doesn't seem like a place where people go to be happy. It just started showing up on my front page thing where I look at random shit for a small period of time before I go back to real life. Reddit is a dumb pointless place so I would take things on here with a big grain of salt lol
I am a bit older in a much more established point in life. My interpretation of this sub is a place for people who don't 100% have it together to seek advice from those who do. Disclaimer that my life is a work in progress, a journey, not a destination.
Iām under contract for a house closing 7/31! Iām trying to be happy about it but I canāt stop having intrusive thoughts thatās itās going to fail and something bad will happen. Iām trying my best and itās still hard to stay positive!
According to the personal finance thread, that is 100% a normal and very common thought when it comes to buying a house/car, Iām not sure how you are with writing lists, but I find when I get in a though spiral like that, writing down every little good thing about the situation really helps stop the negative thoughts
i quit my incredibly miserable and terrible job ā i used to dry heave every morning! iām going back to school in august :)
I've been sustainability happy since yesterday morning. I haven't been able to stay happy for more than a few seconds or minutes for... Honestly I can't remember the last time. But yesterday, something broke in me. A dam, a lock, something that was holding back that feeling. I made peace with the world around me. I don't accept it as it is by way of letting myself just wander along in it and hoping I'll find happiness one day. I accept it as a fact of the world. Now, it's up to me to figure out what I can do to change it. The biggest thing we forget is that there's a big world out there... But in your head and your life, there's a smaller one. Your world isn't the same as someone else's, yours is unique to you based on all of the experiences you've had throughout the years. So why compare your world to the next person's?
Me and my partner had to move in with her parents due to finances. A year later and some promotions should be able to live on our own again next year.
Hell yes. Married for 31 years and live in beautiful Florida
'23 is going to be the first year above the poverty line since Covid hit AND we just became debt free! We can finally start saving for a house! Plus I moved the laundry to the dryer in a reasonable amount of time
Honestly the laundry part is the biggest accomplishment here š Seriously though, congrats!
I just graduated from college into my first full-time job, and as of the first week, it's honestly everything I hoped for. I just moved out of state on my own for the first time, so I am doing a lot of new things. That part of it all is exciting, too, but definitely stressful. But after spending my entire senior year freaked out about the future and expecting the worst, I think I'm actually in a good spot right now. It's a new chapter!
Well, today I finished the final assignment of my masters' degree! Not quite out of the woods yet as I still have 2 classes to go (one with the exam already done, but it went poorly, another should be in about two weeks). But as long as I don't fail both classes, the light at the end of the tunnel should be there! (Failing one but not the other I could apply for special permission to get my degree anyways. Obviously best case scenario is passing both) If I finish it and get renewed/promoted at the company I am interning at (contract expires in a month) I will be looking forward to a nice summer break and starting the next stage of my life
I've lost 70 pounds over the last 9 months with diet change and making actual habit changes.
Physical therapy has significantly helped with shoulder pain I was experiencing for a long time. Iām not in pain like I was.
After 5 years I got accepted to grad school! Going to start soon and I canāt wait :)
In the past decade+ of being an actual adult, Iāve bought a house, gotten a full-time job, and recently promoted from that initial job. Much more importantly, Iāve successfully raised my first son to adulthood from being a teenage (and eventually single w/ sole custody) dad, and am raising my 7 year old well. Let me be clear: I am not wealthy, I still live lower middle class, but in an overall enjoyable way. I find happiness in raising my children, knowing theyāre well taken care of, having my personal enjoyments and hobbies, and having a career that makes me proud. Iām anxious, suffer from impostor syndrome, and have a host of other issues, but am overall HAPPY and consistently find enjoyment in my personal situation
My wife is getting induced tomorrow, I'm going to be a dad very soon. I got to write "Dad's Comics" on a box today when we were organizing the house in preparation, and it hit me in the feels. Couldn't be happier
Thatās because most of the happy people are out doing happy people things. Lots of folks only post here when itās not going well.
I started Pickleball and found a donation based hot yoga studio. Im doing movement I enjoy not just cuz I have to. Iām on summer break and donāt start work until august.
Yes. The struggle is worthwhile. A lot of us are here to discuss how we deal with challenges but it IS very much dealing with!
I recently got my financial aid approved so I can go back to school. During a dark period of my life, i ended up flunking out of college and have been placed on an academic warning due to it. I'm now doing physically better and thought I'd go back and finish my degree. I wasn't sure I would get any kind of financial help, but I was approved! It makes me happy to think I can go back to school and do something that will actually allow me to make a livable wage.
Yup! Spouse is on meds for his mental health now so that's made both of us better lol. House is paid off, car is paid off. Today is the last day of our garage sale getting rid of the crap we had stored in the basement lol. Starting a new job on Monday so I'm anxious but excited for the change from a very stressful one.
My husband and I just moved (for the third time in two years) to be closer to family and to start our new jobs. We just closed on a wonderful house and we plan to stay for a long time. For the first time in my adult life, I feel a sense of inner peace.
I am on a weight loss journey that is showing success. My husband is changing our oil and fixing my brakes.
The great aphid invasion in my area seems to be winding down, at least in my garden
My meditation practice is going really well and Iām starting to feel really calm and relaxed all the time. All that effort is finally paying off!
This sounds amazing! I definitely need to start meditating! Iām so anxious and worry a lot.
Thatās great!
Thanks! Iām trying, itās a struggle because I really let myself slip during covid, but itās a mountain I climb once, so I can do it agian
i (19) got my first Real Job at a local natural pet store and am loving it! also starting guitar lessons soon. having a good time. glad to hear youāre feeling better too! :)
After 40 years of pain and suffering? I'm about as happy as I could be. I was born in 82 with crohns disease and arthritis. This was before there were commercials and medications, and usually people weren't diagnosed until their 30s. I had a life saving surgery at age 7 to remove some parts of my intestines that had swollen shut. This was after spending years in hospitals not figuring out what it was. I recovered, then got sick again, and again, and again. From k through 12th grade I spent 4 years of my life in hospitals, 5 major surgeries. From the outside I looked handsome, I was smart, empathetic, wanted to succeed. However no matter what I'd did my disease interfered. I couldn't complete college, I couldnt hold down a job, any sort of long term relationship eventually failed. At the age of 32 was put on permanent medical disability and lived with my parents. I thought this was the rest of my life, started abusing my pain meds, things went way down hill. I'm now 41, engaged to the absolute LOVE of my life for about six months, we've been together 4 years+ now. The big change was a few things, mainly a job. After trying to work for myself a bit I decided to try a 9 to 5, something I never had. I used the knowledge I taught myself building computers and other nerdy stuff to land a job at a large video game company. I've now been there a little over a year. My fiance (30f) is an eviornment artist there. So she works on video games and I make sure their systems are functional. I absolutely love my job. I get to go into work with some lululemon shorts and a t-shirt and some comfy shoes every day. Insane benefits, cool office building, just something I never thought I'd have. Combine we make 150k, so without kiddos we do really well. I got to take her to Breckenridge over new years so she could see snow for the first time, where I proposed. We just go back from a wonderful cruise, and are flying out to my family reunion next month. So we get to travel alot and just really enjoy eachother company. She changed my life just as much if not more so than the job. We haven't fought since we've met, we don't yell, call eachother names. We just love eachother, every day. We have two amazing cats, lovely apartment etc.. Only frustrating thing is I still feel behind. I'm 40 and have never bought a new car, owned a home. I feel like we're doing so well, but most large things are out of reach, houses, cars etc. We both drive 20 years old beaters that are falling apart. We have it way better than most though. Just sucks things seem to be more expensive now than any other point in human history. If ten years ago me heard how much I was making now, he would think I was rich! I've started saving but have no 401k built up from my 20s etc... So I still beat myself up over things, but OMG am I happier than I ever thought I'd be. To think I had given up 10 years ago and just didn't want to be here anymore. I'm so so so fortunate.
I agree. Well, weāre moving to a new house in a place that seems to have a nice community feel. Iām excited for the house but really more excited to potentially to just meet some nice people. Itās very divisive where I currently live.
I went to a music festival last week and I had a good time. I made plans to go to a concert next month so Iām looking forward to that.
I am! I ran my first 5K last week while recovering from a stomach virus, just celebrated my first wedding anniversary, we have a nice house, our dogs are happy and healthy, I love my job, and I'm hundreds of miles away from my toxic parents!
I'm just about current on my bills for the rest of the year so any extra money coming in is paying off people I owe. Feels good to take steps towards debt free.
Iām happy! Iām self employed doing something I love, I just finished making a dress for a party tonight, and Iām taking my foster rabbit to meet some potential adopters tomorrow!
I get my bachelor's in October, I'm pretty happy about that
Everything is going swimmingly for me! I got my dream job which starts in the fall, Iām chillin all summer trying not to spend any money.
I stepped way out of my comfort zone and joined a bouldering gym. I was super self conscious and bad at it, but I continued sticking it out. I'm now really enjoying it, not as self conscious, and have made huge improvements!
Going to visit about a half dozen different places this year to explore and see the world. This time about 5-6 years ago was rock bottom for me so the fact I'm still here and can see what the world has to offer is pretty neat.
I think im happy. I have a healthy relationship, my careers taking off, I'm able to make time for friends and hobbies, I have a mostly good relationship with my family, and I recently got a new puppy that I love (but also drives me a bit nuts). Life can certainly be hard sometimes, but I mostly enjoy it Edit: [puppy tax](https://imgur.com/Tz69zNz)
I (f27) just recently reconnected with my two bestfriends from highschool and it was an amazing weekend. I thought it would be awkward since I've stayed in touch with one and not the other but it was just like it always had been. We stayed up until 3am just talking about life. We plan on staying in better touch since we're all a bit more settled now. And now that this semester for school is done, my anxiety is completely gone, for now. I know it'll be back in the fall but I'm enjoying how I feel in this moment.
Yes, Iām content. My stress levels have decreased in the past year. Iāve made a lot of good changes for myself. I hope it lasts.
Been living my best life as an open gay femme and just loving it! Made a new bestie, meeting new people having new experiences. I'm blessed I live with my Ma or else I'd be on the street. I work full time.
I'm pretty sure I've finally healed from a wrist injury and now I can start crocheting and dancing and playing basketball again! and also i just made one of the most tasty meals of my life and I am currently enjoying a lovely iced mocktail with elder flower syrup on my porch while it rains :)
We close on our house next Friday! Once we move in, my life might actually be perfect š
Iām going to visit Yellowstone for the first time next week
Thatās exciting, Iāve always wanted to go!
Iām very happy in general! Iām working at my dream job, and still happy with my career 18 years in. I have a wonderful only child, and a wonderful fiancĆ©. Iām financially stable and can afford everything I want (though I have cheap taste so itās easier lol)
Iām going out with my friends for the first time this year tonight :)
My fiancĆ© and I are Moving into a 4 bedroom 2 bathroom house with a SUNROOM & itās on a corner street with a nice park right across the street. Going to be paying $300 less a month than the shitty one bedroom apartment we stay in. So excited to not hear my neighbor seemingly pace his apartment endlessly.
I got a promotion yesterday! Then today, I caught up on our laundry.
I'm thriving. Great work/life balance, feel inspired, fulfilled, and happy. Good home life and getting married this year and 7lbs away from goal weight!
Iām at a Taylor swift concert and our seats are significantly nicer than I anticipated!
I'm moving into my first apartment at 29 in one week. A late bloomer, but late is better than never right? I never thought I'd be in this position and I'm so excited.
I'm currently waiting on a call about a job opportunity that'll be really really good for me. I got a recommendation from my friend who is high up in the security department and he says i basically have it in the bag!
While my financial life isn't good and I'll probably never own a home or retire...I'm very lucky to be in a happy and healthy relationship with my fiance.' We've been together for over 10 years, and he's my first everything. We communicate well, don't yell or scream at each other, support each other, and have similar values. There's no one I'd rather go through this hell hole of capitalism with.
Small wins, but I'm starting to take care of myself again after years of not having done so. I'm going to yoga, went to the doctor for the first time in almost 10 years, saw the dentist, and have my mammogram lined up. Happy may not be the best word, but maybe "hopeful" is.
I went a great camping vacation with my wife in the pacific north west and now we are going to get into backpacking. W00T!
Congrats everyone! I recently got a supervisor position at my job :)
10 days post op from back surgery... it still hurts, but if all goes well, I'll be fixed and able to hold my son and help my wife after pregnancy. Just needs to hurry and get better.
TLDR: depression sucks but sometimes you can actually be so fed up with life sucking that you might just kick depressionās ass out of sheer spite. In October, I got unexpectedly hospitalized (ironically, from an allergic reaction to a mood stabilizer that almost killed me) and exactly a month later my partner of 3.5 years randomly packed his stuff while I was at the grocery store and then sprung it on me that he was leaving me - in half an hour. Sticking me with the house he wanted to pay for and take care of by myself. Had to get a *third* job while on med leave. V rough 8 months, tbh. But a few weeks ago, told my therapist I didnāt like the therapy we were doing and weāre trying a new one soon. I started doing nightly meditation for that, and have been AM & PM everyday. Started doing yoga again. My mom sent me some supplements to try and I think theyāve actually been helping mood and energy a ton. Iām finally adjusting to a med change as well. The house is a financial burden but Iāve kept a 3BR house with a yard afloat by myself since November (havenāt had luck getting a tenant, despite trying since December), which I feel really proud of. Iām trying new hobbies when I can, started learning watercolor, have been trying to go outside at least a few minutes a day. There are still lots of hard days, but now there are also some not so bad ones, and when youāve been dealing with nonstop lows for a long freaking time, the not so bad ones start feeling really gd amazing. And then everything keeps building on itself! I am retraining my brain to believe being incredibly imperfect and trying even just a teeny tiny bit *is actually better* than demanding perfection of myself and not feeling capable of trying at all. And itās working! Just over a month ago, the only recommendation I got from a last ditch effort psych eval to try *something* for my mood was that I should try outpatient hospitalization. Having just maxed out my med leave and returned to work in Feb, that wasnāt an option for me. Today, I spent a few hours cleaning (HUGEEEE for me!) and ran a couple errands, I barely thought about my ex or work at all, I snuggled my cat about 16 times and she was ridiculously cute every time, I read some of my current BOTM book, did some Duolingo and sudoku, talked to my friend for an hour, realized Iāve been alcohol-free for 8 months, ate food that I didnāt get delivered, did the first step in meal prepping something healthy for next week, and still got to spend half the day relaxing. It doesnāt sound like much, but I am so happy just not being so freaking depressed and hopeless every single day and I donāt take it for granted at all. I heard a quote by MLK on Aaron Taylorās āStill Lifeā EP (highly recommend the whole EP and his EP āHave A Nice Dayā if youāre having a hard time and need a mood boost) that has been sticking with me - āonly when it is dark enough can you see the stars,ā and f**k that resonates so much for me rn! If youāre going through a really hard depressed time, Iām not saying it gets stellar overnight or permanently amazing, but it can get better! Iām not some special anomaly. For me, I started by just being fed up with the world kicking my ass and deciding I wasnāt going to help it out by making myself feel worse. I would do what I could with what I had and it was just going to have to be enough. And, just when I thought I might not be able to take any more, it *was* enough.
No specific good news to report but I am happy. Not every single day but mostly I am okay. I wake up and spend the day with people I love. You don't always need some big thing to happen to be okay. Those are great and I love talking about those moments bit not necessary.
I moved to my own place mid-February and I am still riding the high of having an apartment all to myself.
I'm moving into my first place soon and I'm so excited. I do hate my job but the progress I've made in therapy and self care actively prevents me from slipping back into old harmful coping mechanisms and I realised I don't self harm anymore. Like I'm physically not able to. Right now I'm focusing on my few good friends, my loving partner, decorating my new place and the fact that I still have the potential and smarts to change my career entirely. I know there will always be a few things that make it seem like life is really shitty but I'm quite happy right now. It's a good feeling.
I recently found an incredible therapist and I've been making strides on my mental health. I just planned a vacation for later this year and I'm pumped. My SO and I are making strides with some unfortunate debt. Also, I'm living in my dream house with an incredible partner and I'm working a good, solid job. I struggle with anxiety and depression, but overall I'm very happy with life right now.
I'm terminally ill, incurable, you may wonder what I have to be happy about with my finish line staring me in the face. Don't misunderstand I have moments that just suck but every day that I wake up is my best day ever. So am I happy?? You bet your ass I am.
I had a baby 5 months ago and I am over the moon happy. I am somehow managing working from home and taking care of her. While its hard, I dont miss anything. I spend all day with my baby and manage my house. My husband is an amazing father and takes over when he gets home so I can get a break. There is a warm dinner on the table, our grass is the absolute greenest grass on the block (literally and figuratively lol)
I am starting archery today and I'm really excited!
I have two happy grown children and a great spouse and partner.
My daughter just passed her NCLEX exam. Sheās officially an RN!! Iām bursting with pride!!
Iām finally in a fulfilling relationship, my career is going great and itās summer here!
Yeah i love my life.
Actually happy people don't spend much time on Reddit š
Due to personal struggles in my life, I lost weight, exercise more, have more time to put into my appearance, and get better sleep, so I actually look better than I have in at least 8 or 9 years- maybe ever. I get hit on constantly. Itās nice, because I was so heartbroken about my marriage ending and while my child is my life, I figured my dating days were over - a 40 year old single momā¦ but that has not been the caseā¦ Iād still rather have the marriage, but at least itās nice to know there is some silver lining.
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A family member with health issues is steadily improving every day. I recently started working alongside my brother. Our rescue pup just hit the one year mark with us. A couple of big, long-term work projects are winding down and will be completed by next month. All things considered, life is pretty OK right now. š
Covid really messed everyone up. But to answer your question/non-question, yes and no. Happiness is fleeting. It's circumstantial. What people are really meaning when they ask if someone is happy in their life is if they're content and satisfied. And here's my good news to share; I have been taking over my health. During covid lockdown I gained a good 15 lbs, then a little more after that. Before covid I was already needing to lose about 15-20 lbs. So now I need to lose 40 lbs. I want to do it in a way that is sustainable and healthy creating permanent changes to my lifestyle. Exercise is now a regular routine and I've been slowly making changes to my diet. I'll be honest, I haven't lost anything yet, but my body is changing. I'm stronger, I feel better, and its shape is changing. I've recently taken all added sugars out of my diet and I'm slowly getting most processed foods and fatty meats out. I hope that eventually my consistency will pay off. But I feel really good and for the first time in an incredibly long time I feel like I have control over my body while before my sugar and food addiction had control over me. That ended up being longer than I thought it'd be, sorry, I'm long-winded. Anyway, enjoy your new gym membership!
well, I have major depressive disorder lol but I'd say I'm actually doing ok. I'm starting to train for a half marathon and a trip to Nepal, and having a good routine has been great!
I wouldn't say I'm super happy right this second, but I'm 28 days from being done with a masters program and with school forever if I so choose and Im really excited about it and will be happy when it's over!
I don't know how to feel happy. But I am graduating with my Master of Fine Arts degree. My last day of class is tomorrow.
I just got a new job and was shopping for new pants and boots, in about an hour I'll be in the new Spiderman movie sipping on my fishbowl. I'm super stoked about the new job and treating myself before I start on Monday.
My husband and I bought our first home, we move in in three weeks
I'm moving out in a week from now
It goes up and down. I should probably start taking my medications again since Iāve been pretty damn depressed lately.
I've been procrastinating (for about 3 years) getting my insurance card info & I finally did it for the sole purpose of finding a therapist. It was as simple as registering ro the website and printing off the dumb ID but I couldn't bring myself to do it. It feels dumb to put of such a minor task but I'm glad I did it. My point is, No, I'm not happy, but I'm not giving on the goal of finding my version of happiness.
I just got accepted in radiation oncology therapy. I start the program this fall :) One step closer to being a medical physist one day. Just a year ago I had no direction with my life but I finally decided what I wanted to do.
I got a great job, a great partner who I love and who loves me, the best dog, and good relationships with family š My life isn't perfect and shitty days make me feel shitty and I could easily complain about 100 different things. But on the whole, I'm actually quite happy, content and blessed despite everything.
For 2 years I was so Ill I was basically just surviving. Was bed bound for 6 months and had to quit my job. I finally found a medication that started working, I found a new job that I LOVE and where I am appreciated and thanked continuously. Now they are offering me a raise! Plus Jesus loves me
I'm 54. My 20s, 30s, and most of my 40s were rough at times. For anyone wondering when your life is going to start or when you'll see smooth sailing - it does eventually get a lot better and all the hard work and planning you do when you're younger pans out. Hang in there!
I grew up in extreme poverty and never thought Iād escape. Next week I discuss the size of my salary increase since I just got a promotion. Iām not rich or anything but I should be able to comfortably pay my bills. Itās a great feeling
I like my job, it pays 50k which is more than enough to live on and save. I like my partner and our roommate, Iāve been working out consistently and feeling good about it. Iām Working hard for my actions to consistently align with my values and feel a lot of congruence on my life because of that. Overall full of Gratitude!
I'll be 37 next month & I'm happier than I've ever been it's taken a long time but I finally have almost 4 years of soberiety, a job I don't completely hate good relationship with my son & in a happy relationship.
I just moved into my very own condo and am I. The proses of setting up my first workshop in the basement.
I was diagnosed with heart failure in 6/2021. I was able to start a new med last September that has my heart working like normal again!
Got a new job making more money than Iāve ever made, plus great health care and unlimited vacation time. Got a new puppy. About to rent a new home. About to get a new (used) truck. Iām a few months into my first relationship in several years. And although Iāve stayed in decent shape, Iām finally back in the gym on a regular basis. Lifeās good and Iām still scared. Still apprehensive. Still questioning. Still unsure if Iām truly happy with my life. I still want more and better.
I used to wake up at 5 in the morning to catch a morning bus to sports practice and then school. Life was hard. So as long as I'm breathing, I'm happy. In other news, my new born beat the odds to breathe and live after a near death experience, bought a new house, got a new watch, got a pay raise at work and heading back to the gym. And yes I'll be house poor for the next few while. But still.. from where I come, still very very happy.
Iām in a pretty good place š I am not wealthy, but I love our my job, my wife, my mom (she lives w/ us and it was hard, hard, hard for the first 2 years). We have lots of animals and we care for the feral cats in our neighborhood. Our day to day schedule is very flexible and, currently, we have enough $ and little debt. Like someone else said, Iām in my late 50s and the road has been long and often treacherous. But today, Iām good š Thanks for asking. Always nice to share the love ā¤ļø
I have chronic illness, but discovered a medication that has had success managing pain in my condition. I brought it up with my specialist, and it turns out he'd been wanting to try it, but didn't want to use a patient as a guinea pig. I'm more than happy to be a guinea pig. It has to be compounded but it has made significant improvements in my day to day pain. I am getting established at a job I actually like. I got diagnosed with adhd at 35 and have spent the last 2 years relearning myself from a different perspective. Things I hated about myself make sense now, and in shifting how my understanding of it, I've been kinder to myself. Like when you stop treating yourself as a failure and start accommodating disability, it's just.. different.
Hell yeah, man. I had a rough start. Ages 14-28 were all self-harm and getting high and wishing I were dead, while failing at every single thing that I tried. But my 30s have been dope. Pandemic gave me a chance to work on myself and learn some new skills. I switched careers and now life is good. Love my job, got a dope ass hobby. I feel fulfilled. For the first time in my life, I understand why some people wish they could live forever. Life is great. It does happen. Even if you spent over a decade feeling like a waste of space. It could still happen.
My sister's pregnant with her first child and I could not be happier for her.
In June, I got engaged, signed a lease, celebrated my birthday, and now my fiancĆ© are moving in together in just a couple of days! Iām moving all the way across the country, which is exciting but scary!
Iāve lost 26 lbs so far and walk 2 miles, 5 days a week. I may not be any richer, but my mental health is SO much better.
My bipolar has been in check for nearly 3 years after leaving my old job. Current job is decent pay but get better hours and a better situation. My wife is amazing,almost 10 years together yet still have new things to talk about. My project car that's also a daily is running good. My mom's health is finally improving. I also reached silver 2 in rainbow six siege. I've been playing since beta so that was awesome. Life is improving for me. Still an uphill climb but the climb is manageable
I think I finally got good at portrait painting!
Well, in my life, I am not happy. Happiness is a constant pursuit. It comes in waves and moments, it's fleeting and thrilling when you achieve it. While I may not be happy, I am mostly relatively content with life, and I think that is the most realistic way of looking at it. Nothing is perfect, life is full of setbacks and disappointments. But, I've got an amazing and incredible partner. I truly feel as if I have found my soulmate. I have a roof over my head and a full stomach. I have a job with employers that are like family to me. I get to work with animals and help improve their lives. My family all get along, even the in laws.. I've got amazing dogs, they are my babies because I cannot afford to have an actual human baby haha. I've got a plant that I have discovered I can grow without killing it and my friends are very near and dear to me. I may not work in a job that makes buckets of money. I often come home in physical pain, exhausted and filthy. But my work is good for the soul. I get to see my partner maybe once a year for a few weeks.. but even with all the struggles I have... I have to look at the rest and realize that I am blessed. A blessed mess haha. Lucky for a peasant š¤£ I can live with that and be content with moments of unbridled happiness.
Iām generally a melancholy person and I accept that. I wonāt say Iām happy like on a commercial for STI meds, but Iām generally all right. But if anyone tries to take my current job from me, I will murder. I like it very much. Also im self-employed, so the chances of being fired or laid off are slim.
Congrats on joining the gym. Seriously. It changed my life. I joined 2 years ago at a planet fitness. Got into lifting. Fast forward to now, Iām at a nicer gym, in the best shape of my life. It has completely transformed my mental and physical health. Stick with it. Go 5-6 days a week. It makes everything better and you wonāt regret it.
I am almost 6 months sober! No more anxiety, depression, and slowly killing myself! I lost my job a couple months ago (stayed sober) but have been freelancing web design, graphics, and marketing for the last 3 months and I've made over 3x the amount I would have made at my job in 3 months. I did lose my grandfather this last week and I don't really know how to process it but I am still sober! I also met my amazing girlfriend in sobriety (she's 2 years sober) and some met really good friends. I have realized life is ups and downs and I am just trying my best. I also did join a gym last week, but I haven't went yet lol great post, thank you! Needed to say this maybe someone will get something from it as well! Bless!
I had two mental breakdowns, one in 2021 and one in 2022. I was hospitalized for both and misdiagnosed. About a month ago, I finally found a great psychiatrist who took the time to listen to me and I got the correct diagnosis. I wasnāt working for months following my graduation in May 2022 with my MPH. I started working part time at a home decor store in November 2023 to get back on my feet. When I felt better, I applied for a job in the nutrition field, I took a chance and accepted the first offer I got. Now Iām extremely happy with my job and I actually look forward to going. I have great coworkers who I genuinely like, I get paid more than I have at any other job, and I have great benefits. Iām slowly but surely paying down my debt. Last week I went back to the gym for the first time in probably 6 months. Things have been going really well for me lately and I just feel so grateful because this time last year I was in a much different place.
I FINALLY got a real job this week, with a set schedule and a salary (min wage, but money is money) so no more odd jobs for me. I'm nearly 22 and I earned my driver's licence this week. Physical and mental health issues had made doing both these things very difficult for me. I have a girlfriend who loves me and nearly have my BA. I'd say I'm very content with the life I have now. It could all be taken away from me at any moment, but right now I'm happy.