“Are We Having Fun Yet?”: Don’t Distract Yourself From True Happiness

Growing up, in school we are taught about numbers and history, practice writing and reading, but learning how to deal and process emotions, and getting through hard times, that is something we are often left to discover how to do ourselves. And for most, having to deal with that idea alone can be overwhelming.

In addition, today society offers a lot of outlets for distractions to avoid the learning process.  Whether it be smoking, drinking, drugs, the wrong crowd, turning to social media for validation, promiscuousness, over-eating/under-eating, staying in bed all day, diving into your work, or other distractions, these are all “fun” ways to get over hard internal issues-or so they say.

Without getting to the merits of these activities, what we are more concerned about here is the intention.  The truth is often times a person uses these forms of distractions to drown out trauma, depression, anxiety, and insecurity because there is the belief created that these are ways to relieve stress, and so you may have had the experience of doing one of these things and feeling as if you should be enjoying yourself.  The ironic age old question of “are we having fun yet?”

Sometimes, you may feel a false sense of relief while using these outlets.  However, it is a false sense because since you haven't faced or overcome your personal struggle, the distraction is simply putting a pause on the issue, not creating stability or happiness.  

The truth is sometimes the participation in distractions can make the internal struggle worse, adding shame, guilt, and regret to cope with.  

The work may be overwhelming and difficult, but you must go inward to face yourself.  Identify the root issues, and learn acceptance.  Once you come out the other end, you will find you will no longer seek out a distraction and rather are excited to accept the happiness you deserve. By releasing yourself from a need for an escape, you can benign to pursue the life you really want.   

If this sounds like any of the behaviours you are exhibiting, stop pressing the pause button on your life and your self-love. Coach Avy will support you in the journey of facing and accepting yourself.  

Email coachavy.info@gmail.com to book a session as spaces are limited.