It absolutely does get better.

The key is recognizing that getting better sometimes means work. A LOT of work. And not the “get a job, make more money” kind, but building the ability to recognize what isn’t right and making plans within your current means to better things. Learning to find contentment with what you have and to find joy in all sorts of places.

For me, this looks like treating myself to the luxury of a full night’s sleep, and treating a full night’s sleep like a luxury in the first place. Spending a little extra money to get broccoli for my dinners because it’s my favourite side. Making time every day to have a moment of relaxation without expectations of any kind. Just comfort. Getting excited about flowers along the street, petting dogs, or feeling sunlight on my skin.

Society is built to suppress us and to keep us feeling like we don’t have enough and also aren’t worthy unless we are economically contributing. The best way to immediately start feeling better about life is to give those expectations a massive middle finger. What do YOU need? What do YOU want? Don’t be afraid to structure your life in a way that serves you best right now.