Some people just give off an aura of total misery 24/7.
They walk around with a permanent chip on their shoulder and a negative outlook on everything, no matter what. Their lives don’t seem all that bad, but they clearly don’t see it that way. So, what is it that makes them so unhappy all the time? Chances are, it largely comes down to these behaviours. If you’re guilty of any of these, you may want to rethink.
1. They constantly complain without taking action.
We all need to vent sometimes, but if you’re always moaning about your problems and never doing anything to fix them, you’re just keeping yourself stuck. Complaining feels good for a minute, but it doesn’t actually solve anything. If something’s bugging you, try to think of one small step you can take to make it better.
2. They avoid responsibility for their actions.
It’s always someone else’s fault, right? Wrong. Blaming other people for everything that goes wrong in your life is a fast track to misery. Own up to your mistakes. Yeah, it’s not fun, but it’s the only way to learn and grow. Plus, it’s pretty freeing to admit when you’ve messed up.
3. They neglect their physical health.
Skipping meals, not exercising, barely sleeping — it’s a recipe for feeling like crap. Your body and mind are connected, so when you neglect your physical health, your mental health takes a hit too. You don’t have to become a fitness guru, but moving your body a bit and eating some veggies can make a big difference.
4. They hold grudges.
Clinging to anger isn’t hurting anyone but you. Grudges weigh you down and keep you stuck in the past. Learning to let go and forgive (even if you don’t forget) can free up a lot of mental space for happier stuff.
5. They constantly compare themselves to other people.
Social media makes this far too easy. Scrolling through perfectly curated feeds and feeling like your life doesn’t measure up is a guaranteed way to feel miserable. Remember, you’re seeing everyone’s highlight reel, not their behind-the-scenes. Focus on your own progress instead of what everyone else is doing.
6. They stay in toxic relationships.
Whether it’s a romantic partner, friend, or family member, staying in relationships that consistently make you feel bad is a big source of misery. It’s not easy to walk away, but sometimes it’s necessary for your own mental and physical health. Surround yourself with people who lift you up, not drag you down.
7. They procrastinate on important tasks.
Putting things off might feel good in the moment, but it leads to a pile-up of stress later on. Tackling things head-on, even if it’s just a little bit at a time, can help you feel more in control and less overwhelmed.
8. They never try anything new.
Source: Unsplash Sticking to the same old routine day after day can lead to a serious case of the blahs. Trying new things — even small ones like a new food or a different route to work — can add a bit of excitement to your life and keep things fresh.
9. They dwell on past mistakes.
Source: Unsplash We all mess up sometimes. But replaying your mistakes over and over in your head doesn’t change the past — it just makes you miserable in the present. Learn from your mistakes, sure, but then try to move on.
10. They ignore their financial health.
Burying your head in the sand about money problems only makes them worse. Facing up to your financial situation, even if it’s not great, is the first step to improving it. Make a budget, cut unnecessary expenses, and start saving a little if you can. Future you will thank you.
11. They don’t set boundaries.
Source: Unsplash Always saying yes to everyone and everything is a fast track to burnout. It’s okay to say no sometimes. Setting boundaries isn’t selfish — it’s necessary for your mental health and happiness.
12. They neglect self-care.
Source: Unsplash Taking care of yourself isn’t selfish, it’s necessary. If you’re always putting everyone else’s needs before your own, you’ll end up drained and resentful. Make time for things that recharge you, whatever that looks like for you.
13. They focus on things they can’t control.
Worrying about stuff you can’t change — like the weather, other people’s actions, or the past — is wasted energy. Focus on what you can control, like your own actions and reactions. It’s much more productive and way less stressful.
14. They don’t ask for help when they need it.
Trying to do everything on your own is a recipe for overwhelm and burnout. It’s not a sign of weakness to ask for help — it’s actually pretty brave. Whether it’s asking a friend for advice or actually going to see a professional, reaching out when you need support can make a huge difference.
