Hello, Landlord. From your description, I get the impression that you have an optimistic and open-minded attitude. While you may not have achieved what others think you should have done by this age, it seems that you are living the way you want to, which is an important aspect of life. I admire your strength and resilience.
It might be helpful to remember that it's not always necessary to think about what other people think. Sometimes, it's more important to focus on living the way you want to.
(1) External voices and opinions can have a dual impact on our lives. If we lack confidence, receiving praise for our abilities may boost our self-esteem. However, if the person offering the praise is judgmental, suggesting what we should be doing, it can feel like a denial of our current identity.
(2) Many of these voices and evaluations are shaped by past experiences and individual thought processes. For instance, the idea of being 35+ and unmarried may be something that some people find challenging to comprehend, with the assumption that personal transformation is necessary to enter into a marriage. However, there are individuals who may not prioritize age or marital status. I believe that what truly matters is one's inner sense of fulfillment. Living a life that brings you happiness and comfort, and aligns with your personal values, is of paramount importance.
(3) Could I suggest that self-doubt and lack of confidence might be the result of caring too much about what others think? Rather than living our own lives, we may have tried to be what others thought we should be. If we failed to do so, we might think to ourselves, "Am I not doing well enough? Am I not trying hard enough? Am I a failure?" And before we become that person, the feedback we get from others might always be negative, questioning, and judgmental.
(4) It can be challenging to maintain our own happiness when we are focused on the happiness of others.
"Perhaps it would be beneficial to focus on being happy and carefree in the present."
(1) Could we perhaps try to focus on the present and enjoy every moment, regardless of the consequences, success or failure, or development? I think you could absolutely do that. It is very courageous and powerful of you to be able to think of and do this.
(2) Many people find it challenging to move beyond the mindset they have created for themselves, believing that only through hardship can they become accomplished individuals. They feel a sense of obligation to achieve something in life to be worthy of their parents, and that enjoyment is incompatible with hard work. In reality, these are deeply ingrained patterns of thought that prevent us from embracing the simplicity and joy of life.
(3) Ultimately, it is up to you to decide the parameters of your own journey. Press the "confirm" button to embrace your ideas, and live your life with courage, following your heart's desires. If you feel that your current life and work are quite good, excellent, and successful, then bravely let yourself "let go and stop seeking."
I sense that as you write this, you are beginning to feel a return of your usual sense of confidence, positivity, and optimism. I encourage you to embrace the beauty of life as you perceive it.


Comments
I can totally relate to feeling lost and confused at times, even when you have all the material things. It's like we're constantly told that certain milestones should bring happiness, but it's not always the case. Maybe it's time to redefine what happiness means for us, without the pressure of societal expectations.
It's tough when you feel like you've lost a part of yourself in the pursuit of fitting into what society deems as 'ideal'. But you know, real strength comes from staying true to who you are. It's about embracing your quirks and passions, and not letting anyone or anything dim your light. You don't need to change to be loved or accepted; you're already amazing just as you are.
The way you described your transformation from a carefree, optimistic girl to someone who feels lost really struck a chord with me. It's heartbreaking to see how much we can lose sight of ourselves in trying to meet others' standards. But remember, it's never too late to reclaim that vibrant, confident version of you. Start by doing things that make you happy and remind you of who you used to be.
You're right, holding on to unattainable ideals can drain your energy and joy. Letting go of these obsessions is indeed a form of strength. It's about accepting where you are now and finding peace in the present moment. When you release the weight of unrealistic expectations, you might find that life becomes lighter and more fulfilling.
Sometimes, the simplest path is the best one. Being a commoner, focusing on sincerity, love, and youthfulness, can lead to a happier, more authentic life. We don't need to chase after grand achievements to feel accomplished. Happiness can be found in the little things, in the everyday moments that make life beautiful.