This is Why You Feel Empty and Unhappy For No Reason

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Most people today feel empty and unhappy. We live in a technological era, either witnessing the emergence of the internet or being born into societies with such advancements. Therefore, technology has a role to play mainly because of social media, which embeds the belief that one is not enough or cannot measure up. However, there are other factors to blame for the feeling of emptiness in this generation, which, sadly, are rarely being discussed. Aside from the fact that physical and mental health issues are significant culprits, specific lifestyle factors could explain your feelings of emptiness. So you might need to check these lifestyle factors and how they might be affecting your happiness. 

A Lack of Purpose: Following the Tide

The belief that it is better to do what everyone else is doing rather than find and pursue your purpose is a common problem in this generation. Interestingly, seeking and achieving goals feels good, especially when everyone applauds you. This can be pursuing that career, getting that great job in a company everyone always admires or attaining the number of followers you have always wanted on social media. However, it comes to a point where you are no longer enthusiastic despite your efforts and achievements, and you just lack the drive to go on. In most cases, this is a sign that you need to rethink and question your purpose. It is clearly an empty feeling when you really do not know what gives you the motivation to see each new day. On such days, it feels like you just exist but not living.

Ask yourself: What excites me? What would I be willing to do even if I never got paid for it? What situations around me can I change or improve? What is that one special thing about me that positively impacts people? What is that one thing that I look forward to each day?

These are just a few. However, do not forget to tap into your higher power when reflecting on your purpose.

Your Routine

If waking up, picking up your phone, scrolling social media, taking a shower, eating breakfast (probably the same one every day), leaving for work, sitting at your desk working until lunchtime, repeating the same in the afternoon until the time you leave work, arrive at home, prepare and eat dinner, watch T.V (still scrolling your phone), then go to bed (where you'll probably be awake for another hour), is your daily routine, how will you not feel empty. So, create meaning in each day. You could try jogging before or after work on some days, pray immediately after waking up, have a different meal for breakfast, catch up with friends for a movie night or coffee (or go alone), and interact with people physically. Alternatively, each day make sure to do one thing that challenges you (well, as long as it is a good thing, obviously).

Your Obsession with Other People's Approval

Believe me when I say that seeking other people's approval is the fastest way to be unhappy. It clearly shows that what you actually need does not matter, but what other people want. At first, it feels great when people validate you. But sadly, this feeling does not last long, especially when it becomes evident that people don't really care as much as we think. Don't get it twisted, though- some external validation is good. But it should come from people who matter and wish you the best. If not, you are setting yourself up for disappointment that could leave you empty. So if seeking approval is your thing, make sure it's from the right people, but most importantly, it should not be at the cost of your well-being. 

You Don't Have Something You are Looking Forward to

When you don't have that thing you are looking forward to, it can leave you feeling like you are living in limbo or stuck in life. Because all days seem similar without anything special or unique coming up, unhappiness and emptiness kick in. Believe me, when I say something to look forward to does not have to be a huge event, party, or an expensive vacation. You can look forward to the small things in life like finishing work or a book, a conversation with someone you like or love, your favorite snack or meal, a show, or meeting up with family or friends. Having something to look forward to can make you feel fulfilled and happy, so think about it, and you might see some positive change in your life. 

You Are At a Stage in Your Life Where You Need to Make Some Serious Decisions

No one would understand this point better than those between their late twenties and early thirties. Nevertheless, regardless of age, feeling empty can signify that you need to decide on crucial life matters. You are probably stuck in a relationship, job, or other situation that you feel needs to change for the better. Interestingly, you might find yourself holding on to the particular situation even if it is clear that change is necessary. Change is scary, but being stuck in the wrong place is worse. So that unhappy feeling could be a call on you to change something in your life. Heed to it! 

Conclusion 

These are just some factors that could be causing your feelings of emptiness and unhappiness. However, they are inconclusive because an underlying mental health problem could be the culprit. All in all, whenever you feel empty, remember that you are not here by chance. You have a purpose. You don't just exist. You are alive, and your being here matters to someone. Even though you might not realize it.