Life balance

Most of us have experienced yearning at some stage in our lives but, instead of burying it, use it to inspire positive action

Whether you’re single or in a relationship, with kids or without, in your perfect career or striving for one, the feeling that something is missing from our lives can make us feel dissatisfied. But feelings – including longing – are there to serve as prompts. If you feel fear, you are being taught to find courage, while if you feel stress, the lesson is to seek calm. If you’re feeling longing, you are being taught to look for contentment. This is the key to managing this yearning. Take time to analyse what you’re looking for and, once you’ve acknowledged the reason behind the feeling, you can start to work through it. If the thing you’re longing for is realistic, making plans will give you a sense of control and help you towards satisfying the pining. If you want a baby but have money troubles, study your finances and see if you can cut down on certain expenses. This will make you feel more empowered and confident. If you’ve missed a vulnerable loved one during the pandemic but are scared of infecting them, remind yourself that the elderly need love and you can take a test for extra reassurance. Whatever the longing, it can help you discover what you want in life, so instead of fearing or avoiding it, tune in to what it is telling you and use it as motivation. If, however, what you’re yearning for isn’t possible – like seeing a loved one whom you have lost – honour that feeling by calling a friend for a cry, or looking at pictures of favourite memories. Don’t ignore it.