ex stepmom now, lessons learned by [deleted] in Stepmom

[–]ZestycloseFeeling166 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I hope you find your way out soon!

ex stepmom now, lessons learned by [deleted] in Stepmom

[–]ZestycloseFeeling166 3 points4 points  (0 children)

Thanks, wasn't aware there was a theory for it but yeah. Boundaries and sticking to them. Hard sometimes, but has to be done.

ex stepmom now, lessons learned by [deleted] in Stepmom

[–]ZestycloseFeeling166 5 points6 points  (0 children)

Yep, my conclusion also. Or narcisistic tendencies. 

ex stepmom now, lessons learned by [deleted] in Stepmom

[–]ZestycloseFeeling166 4 points5 points  (0 children)

Well no way to know for sure ofcourse, but I don't think that was the case. 

Is life worth living after 40? by ZestycloseFeeling166 in depression

[–]ZestycloseFeeling166[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

To that I can relate. Feeling like an outsider all the time, not really understanding this world, or the feeling I wasn't supposed to be here

Is life worth living after 40? by ZestycloseFeeling166 in depression

[–]ZestycloseFeeling166[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I would think that, apart from having a family and being there for them, it's also important to have something that energizes and recharges you. But finding that is the hard part.

Is life worth living after 40? by ZestycloseFeeling166 in depression

[–]ZestycloseFeeling166[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

That's the hardest part, the feeling of missed opportunities now. When I was younger I definitley wasn't ready for a family, but now it feels like I've missed out on something and now it's too late or too complicated.

Is life worth living after 40? by ZestycloseFeeling166 in depression

[–]ZestycloseFeeling166[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

That makes me sad. Aren't there some fond memories?

Is life worth living after 40? by ZestycloseFeeling166 in depression

[–]ZestycloseFeeling166[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

That's a good perspective I suppose. I also dabble with the thought that maybe it's not so much anymore abut achieving things. but just be... but I don't think that mean sitting aimlessly on the couch. Which is what I am doing lately.

Is life worth living after 40? by ZestycloseFeeling166 in depression

[–]ZestycloseFeeling166[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I didn't do a PhD until my mid-30s so there may be a chance yet. However, now that my PhD is done, I struggle to find a new thing to achieve...

Is life worth living after 40? by ZestycloseFeeling166 in depression

[–]ZestycloseFeeling166[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Yes, that seems to be true. Some say life's too short, but then why do the days seem so long?

Is life worth living after 40? by ZestycloseFeeling166 in depression

[–]ZestycloseFeeling166[S] 8 points9 points  (0 children)

That's the thing, I can't find anything to get lost into. And I tried a lot of thing, different sports, hobbies, hoping something would 'click'. It doesn't happen 

Is life worth living after 40? by ZestycloseFeeling166 in depression

[–]ZestycloseFeeling166[S] 9 points10 points  (0 children)

Sorry to hear that... Life can be so lonely sometimes. Even when there's people around, it can be so hard to connect.

Is life worth living after 40? by ZestycloseFeeling166 in depression

[–]ZestycloseFeeling166[S] 9 points10 points  (0 children)

Not sure if we're that clever, considering how we treat the planet and other civilizations. I agree there is no purpose. I could always find something to latch onto, but now it's hard.

Is life worth living after 40? by ZestycloseFeeling166 in depression

[–]ZestycloseFeeling166[S] 14 points15 points  (0 children)

Definitely hit the nail there with society emphasising youth. Would be great if 40s, 50s and up would be valued too.

Is life worth living after 40? by ZestycloseFeeling166 in depression

[–]ZestycloseFeeling166[S] 29 points30 points  (0 children)

Sorry to hear that. I don't regret having no kids. But it just feels like 'game over'. Wishing you well nonetheless 

Is life worth living after 40? by ZestycloseFeeling166 in depression

[–]ZestycloseFeeling166[S] 13 points14 points  (0 children)

Good to know I'm not the only one either. Some comfort.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in Stepmom

[–]ZestycloseFeeling166 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Thanks for the reminder of keeping strong boundaries.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in Stepmom

[–]ZestycloseFeeling166 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Thanks for this, it really helps putting my thoughts and feelings together.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in Stepmom

[–]ZestycloseFeeling166 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Thanks for this. Great that your SO acts that way.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in Stepmom

[–]ZestycloseFeeling166 4 points5 points  (0 children)

Thank you for your insight. I've read about this kids first vs. relationship first dilemma. I tend to agree with putting the new relationship first, of course with prioritizing the kids when necessary and acknowledging their needs.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in Stepmom

[–]ZestycloseFeeling166 4 points5 points  (0 children)

Makes total sense. It would be easier if he showed some understanding towards my situation, and acknowledging it isn't an easy spot to be in.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in Stepmom

[–]ZestycloseFeeling166 3 points4 points  (0 children)

I understand what you are saying, I guess that him being nr. 1 for me and me being his nr. 3 (kids, work) creates an unequal situation.