Build a Plan To Overcome Restlessness

A large portion of our restlessness stems from the perception that things aren't going as planned, particularly in our personal and professional life. Even if circumstances are outside of our control, we can still make a plan to get things back on track.

To begin, put your five-year plan in paper. In five years, where do you see yourself? Where did you imagine you would be at this point? You can put today's frustrations into perspective by adopting a long-term viewpoint.

For example, you’re still renting an apartment in your hometown when you thought you would have moved away a long time ago. Perhaps you were facing financial difficulties. In any case, you feel stuck since your current circumstances don't align with your expectations for where you should be at this point.

It can be helpful to acknowledge the source of your restlessness, even if only to yourself. Once you know that you’re upset because you’d really like to move, dig deeper. Write in your journal about your future after moving. In my case, I always daydream about living somewhere warmer and within walking distance of a coffee shop.

Once you know why this goal is so compelling, bring as much of it into your life as you can. Even though you might not be able to relocate right away, you can start saving money for your next home. You can even plan warm-weather getaways, investigate areas, or go to a coffee shop every day. Examine your house objectively and get rid of anything you don't want to pack up for the move.

By using these actions and visualization techniques, you can create the impression that you are approaching your objective. They can also make the experience you're in now happier. You may not be able to skip to the end of the book just yet, but you can enjoy the story.