No, you are not alone, you are just brave enough to share your feelings. Everyone has down days or times when we question how well we are doing in life or how we measure up to what we perceive to be other's expectations of ourselves. Mine usually strike in the middle of the night when I can't sleep or reading about other people's lives and what they are doing. Facebook can be a prime example of this, a lot of people want to project what a perfect, happy life they have and you don't see posts about poor health, marriage or financial stresses, struggles with parenting or family, etc. So, I have to consciously remind myself that everyone has struggles and no one is perfect, we just can't always see that. You sound like a very loving mother and wife and there is nothing more important than that so you are a total success! I bet your husband and children think you are the best wife and mother in the world. So yes, you are right about lowering your expectations. Good enough can be a lot happier and more peaceful place to be than unattainable perfection.
I have talked to a counselor several times when going through major life stressors. I found it to be very helpful as they can help you put things in perspective and help change negative thinking, and always felt much better afterwards. Many workplace employee assistance programs offer free counseling sessions to employees and their families from a trained professional. If a down mood doesn't lift or starts impacting your life negatively, talk to your doctor. Depression is a biochemical disease no different than heart disease or diabetes and their are medications that can help.
We must let go of the life we have planned so as to accept the one that is waiting for us.
Joseph Campbell
When sleeping women wake, mountains move.
Chinese proverb
Bookmarks