Or do you feel burdened, trapped by circumstances?

Do you smile when you wake up in the morning, excited to see what the day holds — or do you start worrying right away, praying to just make it through relatively unscathed until you can crawl back in bed?

Maybe your life looks good from the outside. You have a decent job and family or friends to hang out with on the weekends. You probably should be satisfied, but then you see photos of your friends’ vacations or celebrations and think, “Why can’t my life be that awesome? When will it be my turn to be that happy and just enjoy my life?”

You want to be happy for them, but it’s hard not to feel envious. Your life feels like a hamster wheel that you have to keep spinning, and you’re tense and exhausted from pushing so hard, determined to avoid the disaster that always seems to be looming.

I get it, believe me. I lived that scenario, repeatedly.

Growing up with an older brother with epilepsy, I believed life was very serious business. I was determined to do it well — because only high performers were worthy of praise. I did pretty well in my work, but I never loved what I did. In most areas, I was super critical of myself: not quite talented enough, successful enough, fun enough. I didn’t know how to fit in. Relationships were my weakest area, a complete disaster when it came to a “significant other.” I always tried to do the “right” thing and make everyone else happy — family, bosses, co-workers, clients, friends — but that never resulted in ME being happy. Life felt like so much pressure with very little reward.

Thankfully, after 45 years of being fiercely independent (and lonely), working really hard at an assortment of jobs and some businesses of my own and wondering what the heck was wrong with me, I found mentors who helped me see the error of my ways. After investing in 5 years of intense personal development work, I understand that, as the Good Witch told Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz, I had the power within me all along. I just needed guidance to help me become aware of that power.

Now, I can honestly say that I enjoy the adventure of my life every day. I feel supported and loved, and I know the best days of my life are ahead of me. And yes, I am finally in a healthy relationship with a wonderful man. Hallelujah!

Now I want everyone to know that they are free to create a life they love — because it feels so dang good!

If you’re interested in finding out how you can find more joy in your life, schedule a curiosity call with me .