We are born into an ecosystem. An ecosystem means that all the organisms involved in a system portray harmonious interconnectivity, and each plays a crucial role in the smooth functioning of this ecosystem. Have you ever felt like a very teeny, tiny, not-so-productive part of the system?
Have you ever felt like a stranger standing below a tower of working people, seeing them at work and playing their role while you just stand and do nothing for it? Life can feel like that sometimes. We watch everyone else get ahead and contribute while we feel left out, isolated, and completely lost.
Don’t worry; many adults feel like this, but this feeling may not necessarily be true. Imagine this: the ecosystem includes you; there is no way it could function without you. Some underlying deeper issues may be causing this effect and disturbing the mind.
In England, 5% of adults reported feeling lonely “often” or “always” in 2016 to 2017. Younger adults aged 16 to 24 years experienced loneliness more frequently than older age groups. Women also reported feeling lonely more often than men. Factors such as being single or widowed, poor health, and limited trust in their local area increased the risk of loneliness. Renters were more likely to feel lonely than homeowners. Additionally, in 2021, 22% of adults felt lonely at least some of the time, with 6% experiencing chronic loneliness (often or permanently). Women were more likely than men to feel lonely.
Some common reasons for that sense of aimlessness might be:
- Living on Autopilot
Sometimes, we go through life on autopilot, making decisions without much thought or intention. It’s like drifting through life, leaving us feeling lost in a repetitive cycle. - The Curse of “Hurry Sickness”
In our fast-paced world, many of us suffer from “hurry sickness,” where we rush through life without understanding the true purpose behind our actions. This constant haste can leave us feeling lost and disconnected from our intentions. - Burnout: The Silent Culprit
Burnout can sneak up on us when we take on too much, pushing ourselves to the brink. Exhaustion can cloud our purpose and leave us feeling adrift. - The Comparison Game
Comparing ourselves to others, especially on social media, can erode our self-worth and make us feel lost. Remember, social media often shows a filtered version of reality, leading to feelings of inadequacy. - External External Validation for Self-Worth
Relying on external factors to determine our self-worth can leave us feeling uncertain. Feeling lost can follow any changes or losses in these areas if our self-esteem is tied to achievements or external validation. - Losing Connection to Yourself
Losing touch with your desires and values can make you feel adrift. This disconnect can manifest in unfulfilling jobs, unsupportive relationships, or even mental health struggles. - The Elusive Quest to Have It All Figured Out
No one truly has life completely figured out. The constant pursuit of having all the answers can lead to exhaustion and a sense of being lost. It’s okay not to have everything sorted; life is a journey of exploration and learning. - Dwelling on the Past
Overindulging in thoughts of the past can make it challenging to embrace the present. Facing reality is essential for moving forward, but clinging to past experiences can leave you feeling lost and apprehensive about the future.
Feeling lost is a common human experience, but it doesn’t have to define your life. Seeking support is essential. Talking to a trusted friend or therapist can help immensely if you feel lost and purposeless. Additionally, practicing specific mindfulness techniques can significantly improve our state of mind and help us reconnect with ourselves and the world around us.
Recognising these culprits is the first step toward regaining control. With mindfulness, self-compassion, and a clear sense of your values and goals, you can navigate the path to finding purpose and direction in your life. It’s time to break free from the shackles of feeling lost and embrace the journey of self-discovery. Connect with Antaha to talk to a compassionate buddy. Schedule a call today.
