Dear Diary, I'm bloody bored!
In a recent survey that sounds like something straight out of a Bridget Jones novel, two-thirds of British women say they are "completely bored" with their lives. Pressures at work, a limited social life, and an overall unhappiness with their appearance seem to be the top things they blame for their constant yawning. Oh--and seventy percent of them say they're sick of being broke, too.
Related: Top 10 Bores
Welcome to the real world ladies. We, having lived as a Sex and the City society for the last decade, have put so much emphasis on shopping and traveling and having it all--when the economy tanks, we no longer can figure out what to do with ourselves. We want to jet to Jamaica for the weekend, not go camping. We want to drink cosmos, not coca cola. We want gourmet faire from America's Top Chef, not macaroni and cheese.
I also blame reality TV. In the past, maybe you thought your neighbor's grass was greener. But today you have an open window into dozens of lives. Lives that seem--thanks in large part to editors and producers--dramatic and exciting and very unlike your own. As we sit on our couches, remote in hand and popcorn in lap, these reality stars fight and cheat and love and spend. And we feel boring in comparison. Sure, we dream of doing big things--but we're stuck at home or at work, with a lack of not only motivation, but funds.
Related: Top 10 Things Women Wish They Could Do
Now this study was done on British women, but I'm guessing you Americans out there feel very much the same at times. You're stuck in a routine, you have no money to do anything you perceive as "fun", and maybe you even hate your job, too. The question is--how do we conquer the boredom without breaking the bank?
Well, first, I think we need to stop looking at what we want--and start looking at what we already have. Put more emphasis on family and friends and the simple things in life that can bring major enjoyment without major cost. Find and cook a new recipe with your significant other--and eat your finished product under candlelight. Turn off the PlayStation and try a family game after dinner instead. Take a walk through a park on a warm summer night and listen to the crickets chirp. Get to know your new neighbor over a glass of tea or wine. Lock the door on a Saturday morning and stay in bed, cuddling with your husband. The possibilities are endless!
And dare to be spontaneous, too! Surprise the kids with a last minute road trip. Or send them to Mom's and give your husband an impromptu weekend of just the two of you. Don't over-plan and over-think - grab life and take advantage of the opportunities it affords for you and your loved ones. I promise it'll bring you more excitement than another pair of Manolos ever could!
Related: Full British Survey
Okay it's your turn: Are YOU bored? And if so, what do you think would make your life more interesting?
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