Am I Missing Out on Life?

If you’re worried about time slipping through your fingers beyond your control, you’re not alone.

No one wants to feel like life is passing them by. We all want to feel like we are making the most of our time on this earth and living up to our fullest potential.

We can become paralyzed by the idea that we’re missing out on life. We may even begin to feel hopeless about the situation.

However, it’s important to realize that there are things you can do if you feel like life is passing you by. The first step is recognizing the signs--and then taking action.

4 signs you are missing out on life and what to do about it

If any of these signs resonate with you, you may want to consider what changes you can make to get the most out of life. We’ve compiled a list of the most common signs you are missing out on life, including tips for actions you can take to change that.

Sign #1: You’re stuck in a routine

Routines can help keep us organized and stay on track with goals. However, even though routines are healthy to a certain extent, they can also make us feel trapped.

It’s possible that your monotonous routine could be dragging you down. When we become a slave to our routine, we don’t leave any room for new and exciting things. 

Your routine can leave you stuck in a rut, and this can cause you to miss out on life.

Solution #1: Make room for spontaneity

While your routine can keep you grounded, it’s also important to seize opportunities to mix things up. Accept a last minute invitation to grab drinks with your friend on a Thursday night. Save errands for later and spend the afternoon taking a leisurely stroll with your partner. 

Doing things to break up your routine can help you make the most out of your life: no matter how big or small the change is. 

Sign #2: You’re plagued with anxiety

Are you constantly bombarded with worries? Do you feel like something bad is about to happen, but you can’t put your finger on it? Are you fidgety, sweaty, and just uncomfortable in your skin? You could be suffering from anxiety. 

Anxiety can hold you back from living your best life. If you’re plagued with worry, it can be difficult to make the most out of situations and embrace life.

Solution #2: Work with a therapist

Therapy can help you get a handle on your anxiety and empower you to take charge of your life.

As an online therapist, I help anxious millennials learn skills to manage anxiety symptoms and start a healing journey. I’ve been stressed, anxious, and burnt out myself, and I know firsthand how much this can cause you to miss out on. I’ll support you in making meaningful changes so that you can get the most out of your life.

Think we might be a good fit? If you live in Iowa or Idaho, let’s chat--schedule your free consultation today.

Sign #3: You’re constantly distracted

It can be difficult to get out of your head, especially when you have worries or stress. However, getting wrapped up in thoughts can make it feel like life is passing you by.

When you’re constantly distracted, you miss out on what’s happening around you. This can lead to missed opportunities to connect with others or engage in fun, spontaneous activities.

Mulling over the past or stressing about the future takes away from your ability to seize life for all it’s worth right now. If you’re not living in the moment, it’s nearly impossible to get the most out of life.

Solution #3: Incorporate mindfulness skills

Using mindfulness skills can help you get grounded in the present. Being present can open you up to opportunities to seize the moment and embrace life.

Though mindfulness is a bit of a buzzword, it’s worth incorporating into your life. Practicing mindfulness skills by meditating, doing body scans or breathing exercises, or tuning in with our five senses can help foster a connection with the moment you’re in.

Opening yourself up to being present can help you prevent missing out on life.

Sign #4: You have a negative outlook

Most people don’t like to think of themselves as pessimistic, but it can be easy to get wrapped up in negative thoughts. These negative thinking patterns can become so ingrained in our minds that we have to consciously work toward having positive thoughts.

If we constantly view things as negative, we miss out on opportunities to find joy and connection in our everyday lives. Being stuck in this mindset can cause life to pass us by as we become blinded to new, potentially positive, ways of thinking. 

Solution #4: Practice gratitude

Even though it may feel like the things we perceive as negative are out of our control, we have to recognize that our mindset may be part of the problem. By practicing gratitude, we can reframe our negative thoughts and recognize the good in situations. 

You can practice gratitude by keeping a journal or sharing what you’re thankful for with your loved ones at the dinner table. Anything is worth writing or talking about: no matter how big or how small. 

Gratitude may not come naturally at first, especially if we have been stuck in negative thinking patterns for a while. However, consciously cultivating a sense of appreciation can help us get the most out of life. 

Working with a therapist and coach can prevent you from missing out on life

The idea that you’re missing out on life can be scary--but you can do something about it.

I’m here to help you face that fear head on. Together, we’ll make a plan for how to tackle your anxiety and embrace life for all that it is. 

I offer online therapy in Idaho and Iowa and coaching services wherever you’re located for anxious clients who struggle with things like people-pleasing, perfectionism, burnout, overwhelm, and ADHD.

Reach out today and see if we’re a good fit. Let’s start building a better future together.