Wow. Many years ago on a road trip back from LV I was thinking about how people crossed in covered wagons. They lived to get out west and died in childbirth, and sometimes due to weather conditions/food were left to die without burial. Each day was a fight for survival. They didn’t have time to worry about whether they were happy, had no future, directionless, etc.
Unfortunately, or fortunately for us, because our basic needs are met, we have the time and energy to contemplate this ideal of “happiness.” Maybe, we aren’t supposed to be happy? Maybe, just being “okay” is good enough? Would it help to adjust your expectations?
Sounds like you are here for Erikson’s Stages of Development:
7. Middle Adulthood: 35 to 55 or 65
Ego Development Outcome: Generativity vs. Self absorption or Stagnation
Basic Strengths: Production and Care
Now work is most crucial. Erikson observed that middle-age is when we tend to be occupied with creative and meaningful work and with issues surrounding our family. Also, middle adulthood is when we can expect to “be in charge,” the role we’ve longer envied.
The significant task is to perpetuate culture and transmit values of the culture through the family (taming the kids) and working to establish a stable environment. Strength comes through care of others and production of something that contributes to the betterment of society, which Erikson calls generativity, so when we’re in this stage we often fear inactivity and meaninglessness.
As our children leave home, or our relationships or goals change, we may be faced with major life changes—the mid-life crisis—and struggle with finding new meanings and purposes. If we don’t get through this stage successfully, we can become self-absorbed and stagnate.
The other thing that came to mind, and I am quite serious is: Pre-Menopause. Could be your hormones are all jacked up. For a holistic approach, recommend, per day:
1 capsule 1000 mg Vitamin C
1 capsule Phyto-Estrogen
Daily Tincture of Vitex, Elixir for Women
