Everything in my life is messed up. Motivation works temporarily and I'm not suicidal but feel it's pointless to live like this. What should I do to feel hopeful?
247 Answers
Last Updated: 05/27/2022 at 3:54am
Moderated by
Smita Joshi, BA Psychology / MA / Advanced EFT Practitioner
Counselor
I am empathetic with my Clients going through emotional overwhelm and passionate in helping them. I am supportive, openminded & interactive in helping my clients.
Top Rated Answers
Anonymous
August 4th, 2018 12:30am
Hey, I'm sorry you're feeling so down. I used to feel similarly to you. I don't know what your situation is, but if you feel like it's pointless to live like this then maybe that is a wakeup call for you that something in your life needs to change. Possibly multiple things. If you feel everything is messed up, you may just be feeling overwhelmed by all the problems. Almost like all the problems became a tangled ball and you don't even know where to start. That's okay. One step at a time. Focus on the things that are important to you and on the things that you can change to make your life more like how you want it to be. Even if you aren't suicidal, going to a therapist may still help you untangle that web and get a better point of view on where to start. I know it helped me, but if not at least a friend you can trust to gain new insight could be helpful. I think the more you start working on the things you feel are important to you and for your life, even if they are just little things, the more hopeful you'll start to feel. Also, being in a good safe environment can make you feel a lot more hopeful. I used to be in a toxic environment personally and that negativity constantly prevented me from feeling hopeful. So make sure you are in a good environment surrounded by good people. I wish you all the best. Just remember one step at a time. Your life can still be the life you want it to be.
Start writing out a bucket list like what are the things you hoped to achieve. Start with smaller goals then proceed to planning bigger goals and be consistent and determined work on the goals. All the best.
Set yourself small but achievable goals and right them down. Each time you complete one, tick it off.
Anonymous
August 12th, 2018 11:15pm
Whenever I wake up, I head to the mirror and say 3 compliments to myself, ending off with 'whatever life throws at you today, you WILL overcome it'. I then set one target for the day - it doesn't have to be ridiculously complex. It can be something as easy as smiling at 3 people.
"Motivation works temporarily"
This is a great thing! The way you get through life is one day at a time. It sounds so cliché but that is how I've gotten through periods where life feels like it is just a monotonous grind.
If things get worse then shorten the window and say "I just need to make it through 6 more hours of work"
When things get really bad then you shorten it even more - "I just need to keep it together for the next 15 mins".
Another method is to change up your routine. Drive home a different way, take a trip to some place new, eat something you have never tried. Opening yourself up to new experiences and cultures will broaden your mind.
I hope this helps.
Turn your attention back to your strengths every time you are reminded of your weaknesses. Find a way to utilize your strengths in every situation that reminds you of your weaknesses. By doing so, you will remind yourself of the fact that you are not inadequate, that you are capable of taking what life throws at you, and that there is no need for you to give up.
And after you succeed, don't forget to reward yourself for overcoming that situation. That will keep you motivated for the next time you face the same or similar situation.
Most importantly, just keep livin'.
The best way to feel like you have a grip on your life is to create your definition of self-care. If it is utilized in a positive way such as reading, unplugging from social media, or music, you can start to rebuild your confidence and stamina against stress. You have to find out what works the best for you and make sure it's a TOP priority. Motivation can feel temporary if you are overworking yourself with responsibilities. The best way to focus even when you're unmotivated is to create a to-do list, take frequent small breaks. drink tea, and breathing techniques. to
Personally, I think it would be best to talk to those who are close to you about it, think about what you could be if you were to try hard. I'd use that to get myself to at least try. If that doesn't work, then you can always promise yourself a reward for getting up and doing what you have to, like a treat, or maybe some freetime to just relax. It's also important not to pressure yourself, though because it's possible that the reason for you feeling this way may be because of pressure (possibly self induced) :)
This is a difficult place to be in, because the usual answer is just to find some reason to get up in the morning, or find something that you're passionate about. While these are good ideas, sometimes depressive feelings can overpower your motivation. I've found that not everything needs to be on such a large scale. Small things can change your mindset for the long-run. Even if it's as small as getting to pet the neighborhood dog, or hearing that one friend's laugh- every little thing helps. If you can first begin to see more worth in the smallest of joys, then you can go on to find bigger, better things to work for.
People say that happiness is a choice, but I don't believe that's true.
If you've ever felt hopeless, depressed, or if you've ever someone or something very important to you, then you know that happiness doesn't come that easily.
Gratitude however is a choice we all can make every day.
It's not easy, but it helps.
Being thankful isn't always the same as feeling thankful, but you can be thankful even when you don't feel that way. Think of one thing every day, small things. Even something funny you remembered, or your favorite song, or finding extra cash in your pocket.
You can think of something every day to be thankful for. Life is filled with good things all around us. When life gets very very hard and painful, and we struggle to see light or hope in our lives, we search for ways to fight for ourselves.
Gratitude is one weapon against hopelessness. It helps us find the road back to peace.
Anonymous
October 11th, 2018 9:07pm
It sounds like you might just need to go to the doctor and tell them how you feel about your life right now. Perhaps the doctor can give you something to help make you feel better and get your life back on the right track. Life can be so demanding sometimes and we just need a little help to get our priorities back in line. It is nothing to be a shame of because every now and then we all get a little weak and need somebody to help us get back up again. Hang in there my friend and I hope things get much better for you.
I feel like taking time to myself and doing something that I enjoy helps a lot. Try and find a moment where you don't have anything going on and sit down and relax. Do something fun and focus on yourself. Read a book, watch a movie, maybe even just sit and stare at the wall. Just do something relaxing and calming that you enjoy. Personally I love reading. For me sitting down with a good book and listening to the sound of rain puts me in a good mood. Listening to calming music can also help a lot. You can always carry around music on your phone that calms you and when you're in a stressful time where you can't sit down and rest, plug in your music. ðŸ
What has kept you motivated and positive in the past . What are the good things in your life right now what could you not live without what makes you proud and happy to be alive . What things did you and do you enjoy in life foods activitys even if you can't do them right now. Grab a pen and paper take notes . For today not tomorrow one hour at a time look to completing small tasks around you that make you feel like you have achieved something .. look around now what would make you feel accomplished what have you not done that needs doing .. go do it you will feel so much better .. distract yourself wash the pots tidy a cupboard write that message to an old friend
Anonymous
October 13th, 2018 7:14pm
I think you should go to some group sessions with people similar to you. I'm hopeful that having people who you could relate to, and share stories with, could really help you find some hope. I know that things might be really hard right now, but having people close to you, who care for you, could be very helpful. As you go through these things, really think about your goals and what you need to focus on. Losing focus is okay, it's completely normal, but if you try your hardest, you can always push through and get back on the right track.
If you find yourself unable to find motivation that 'sticks', it may be a sign that it is time to create space to explore and re-evaluate what is valuable to you. What is important to you in life, what motivates you, what gives your life meaning? What would you like to accomplish at the end of your life - or conversely, what kind of life would you feel unsatisfied about leaving? Confronting these difficult questions will bridge a path to self unity. It is often disillusionment with ourselves or strife between conflicting motivations that is the core cause of depressive and apathetic symptoms. When we are unable to reconcile this (often because we are afraid or avoiding) we enter a state of imbalance. True motivation is that which challenges us and requires real courage to accept, while false motivation only hides these problems from us momentarily.
Try to think of things you are grateful for. This happens to me often - I get motivated for a week and then don't do anything for the next week. When I write down something I am grateful for once a day or once every other day, I remember that I already have a lot of great things in my life, and that I've grown a lot and come a long way. Usually at the top of my gratitude lists are the people in my life that I care about. After that, it is the things I've already accomplished. It's important to be proud of steps you've taken or goals you've achieved!
Try to do something that used to bring you joy every day. Whether it is colouring or going for a walk. Taking the stress off yourself even for 20 minutes could help, listening to music is something that really helps me, it allows me to disconnect from daily stresses and focus on something else. Taking the pressure off of yourself and listening to your body will hopefully allow you not to burn out and maintain motivation for a bit longer. The pandemic is making motivation hard for everyone, so if you can't manage to be productive be kind to yourself, listen to your body and be kind to yourself.
It must be very difficult, trust me I understand. Motivation is temporary, until it becomes self discipline rather than just 'motivation'. the key, that I have found, to feeling hopeful is having self-discipline. As humans we have free will, we are in control of ourselves. Go out, meet people, take opportunities and find hope. I know it isn't easy but trust me as soon as you put you mind to going out and doing amazing things hope will come pouring in straight away! Remember, it may be a bad day, week, month or even year - but it is not a bad life. Good luck with your ventures to finding lifelong hope and happiness! :)
A particular quote I like is, "Appreciate the little things in live, because life is made up of little things." Try to appreciate one small, beautiful thing every day. This could be the glint of sunlight filtering through your window onto the floor. It could be the way your coffee was just right this morning, or the way the breeze feels against your skin. It can be difficult to feel hopeful when things feel like they're falling apart, but taking time to appreciate the small things that make up the world can ground you and remind you that there are reasons to live and feel joy found everywhere you go.
Anonymous
October 7th, 2021 6:45am
It would be to find the purpose in life or perhaps a goal you would like to achieve or for some what helps them to be hopeful is the constant reminder of how beautiful or fun their future is going to look like. All these are are easier said than done i must admit but if you are willing to spend even little time to do something you love or find it, that would make you feel hopeful to and even increase confidence. These things are common things someone would tell you and they are right but in order to get this feeling going, you have to start with something small everyday to look forward to, it could that nice cup of coffee you love or even meeting a friend etc....
Hi. This is strictly my opinion:
Take some time off. Think about the good parts of life. Think about the parts of your life that make you happy, reasons why you should stay strong and just not succumb to that hopeless feeling.
Write down the things that make you feel hopeful, the things that make you feel alive, and think of them when ever you need motivation. Avoid feeling sorry for yourself. When thoughts like that come, think about why you should feel proud of yourself instead. Think about what you want for your future, and how you can't get it by staying that way. Staying Motivated can be hard, but you can do it.
When you are motivated, perhaps try and set yourself simple tasks to carry out each day, like a chart maybe with three (or so) achievable goals a day. These could be things like 'Get out of bed' 'Get washed and dressed' 'Prepare and consume a meal' 'Go for a walk'. Use that motivation on those days to ensure you're setting yourself up to stay focused on your tougher days. Perhaps you could reward yourself at the end of the day/week if you do get those things done. This is also a really good way of keeping track of what you have completed too.
What I understand is that something in your life right now troubles you. It is very normal to feel like that at some point. Why don't you try to communicate with people who feel the same way? Some of your friends might be experiencing similar problems! Even a small talk can help because you will give voice to your thoughts. You can also go for a walk outside and try to observe your surroundings. At the same time, try to take some deep breaths and, finally, remind yourself of all the difficulties that you have managed to overcome throughout the years
Anonymous
January 23rd, 2022 9:53pm
Sorry to hear it, you must have been feeling overwhelmed. But that's OK, this happens sometimes. Perhaps you could find something you enjoy doing before and pick them back up! I know that you may feel like not sensing any motivations even for things you use to enjoy doing. You could also make some plans or goals which you would like to pursue, talk to your friends and family, or maybe spend some time on your own, go to your favorite restaurant. I am sure you will get through it! and remember, you are not alone, and we are here for you!
Feeling hopeful means living in something that lies in the future. Waiting for something to happen takes away the power from the present moment, from living in the only "time" that exists, the present, where life unfolds. Every part of our lives unfolds in the present, not in the past which has gone and cannot be changed, not in the future that doesn't exist because when things happen, even the ones we hoped for, they manifest in the now, in the present. To bring balance and equanimity in your life, you've got to start not relying on self-motivation which, when isn't based on wisdom comes and goes like a winter storm but to live fully and completely in the present moment. When you wash your hands, when you drive, when you look at a tree or a flower, when you look at life passing in front of you on the road, the life made of busy people, people sitting on a bench eating an ice-cream, when you are utterly immersed in the way life unfolds, when you are completely aware, when your senses are completely awake and make you experience even the tiniest details of life, that's when you feel you resonate with the universe and everything around you and that abides inside of you.
My suggestion would be doing something that made you feel more hopeful. Giving back in the community in some way would be very beneficial for you in my opinion. You can find a cause that you enjoy, and go from there. It's a small step, but I think building from that will go a long way. Helping others (or animals) may help build your motivation greatly. It also helps build confidence. You shouldn't feel like you are pointless, or that your life is. You are worth it, and you are here for a reason. Never give up on yourself!
I'm finding that making small steps every day/week helps. Positive experiences, like having a nice conversation or solving a small problem, can help you feel more hopeful. An achievable routine everyday can be good, as you'd be achieving small things everyday and feeling more hopeful. If everything is messed up, then you can start with the smallest problems, and then maybe even break up the bigger problems into smaller, more achievable steps. It's nice to have things to look forward to, as well. It's also good to ask for help and support when you feel overwhelmed, so well done for doing that.
Anonymous
January 19th, 2022 1:06am
When I feel hopeless, I take it as a sign of burnout or stress. I have learned over the years that these feelings of hopelessness are the times when I need to listen to my body. I try to remember my family and friends and all the wonderful times I have shared with them. I also put on a comfort movie or two. It might be helpful to take time to reflect on what events have made you feel this way, it can also be a good time to journal and listen to music, write, sleep, talk to someone you love; these are the things that help me to feel hopeful again.
No feel lasts forever, no emotion is permanently fixed in you. If nothing else, wait, and wait. Sometimes finding a book or podcast to binge can help with the day to day. Each day you get through is a victory, no bad day will happen again you literally only need to get through it once.
I’m sorry you are going through this, and I’m sorry everything feels messed up. I hope things get better for you sooner rather than later. Sometimes it helps me to accept I will go through periods of feeling hopeless or helpless, and that it will eventually pass.
Anonymous
January 27th, 2022 2:09pm
Motivation is inconsistent/limited and even more so if you are feeling low. The important thing to do is rather than focusing on your life as a whole, just focus on your day. Even better, focus on the next hour or two and ask yourself, "what can I do to feel better right now?' The best thing is definitely going for a walk, getting fresh air, clearing your mind get the blood flowing. Think about the things you enjoy doing, but make sure they are simple and doable. Once you feel better it is easier to do things that are less fun. Our brains get overwhelmed if a task is too big, we need to break it down into tiny little tasks. When you do that suddenly life doesn't feel pointless or messed up. We can tackle all obstacles if we break them down into tiny steps.
Talk to an expert therapist
Hi, my name is Melissa and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I hope...
Talk to Melissa NowRelated Questions: Everything in my life is messed up. Motivation works temporarily and I'm not suicidal but feel it's pointless to live like this. What should I do to feel hopeful?
How do I get over feeling that everyone is going to leave me?How can I get what I need from my doctor? I feel extremely sick whenever I leave my house, what can I do? I have trouble with my school work due to procrastinating. And my anxiety always gets in the way. How do I get things done?A family member thinks I am lying about where I am going but I'm not, what should I do?How do I know if I did the right thing?Is it hard to think critically about something you love?How do I overcome the fear of cashiers?How can I convince myself that my friends don't hate me? I have this irrational fear that they actually hate me.How frequent are anxiety attacks usually?