How to Listen When Life Feels Off
You’re going through the motions. Doing the things. Smiling when needed. But something feels… off. You can’t quite name it — but you’re not quite you. You feel scared, lost, confused, and you really want this state to go away so you can get back to your normal self.
It’s Not a Flaw. It’s a Signal
Feeling “not like yourself” isn’t a sign that you’re broken or losing it. It’s a sign that your heart, body, mind, or soul — maybe all of them — are asking for attention. These moments often show up during life transitions, burnout, subtle trauma, grief, or a season of emotional growth.
Don’t dismiss it. Don’t silence it with busyness, numbing, or comparison. Pause. Listen.
Don’t dismiss it. Don’t silence it with busyness, numbing, or comparison. Pause. Listen.
These Seasons Are Human
Not feeling like yourself doesn’t mean something is wrong — it means something is shifting. Think of it like outgrowing an outfit. Not because the old one was wrong, but because you are changing. We don’t expect to wear the same clothes forever; why expect to feel the same self at every stage of life?
What Might Be Underneath
Sometimes these moments whisper:
You don’t need to understand it all at once — gently naming it begins to clear the fog.
- What part of me have I been ignoring?
- Is this exhaustion, grief, or a change I didn’t choose?
- Am I being asked to evolve?
You don’t need to understand it all at once — gently naming it begins to clear the fog.
Instead of Rushing to Fix
Try this:
And if chocolate happens — let it be with presence, not punishment.
- Pause instead of pushing — take ten quiet minutes before distractions.
- Notice without judgment — what feels off: energy, clarity, connection?
- Get curious — when have you felt this before?
- Offer yourself kindness — you’re not behind; you’re becoming.
And if chocolate happens — let it be with presence, not punishment.
Therapy Can Help You Find Yourself Again
If possible, I suggest giving a new therapist 3–4 sessions. It takes time for trust and rhythm to form. Let yourself settle in. But if something still doesn’t feel right after that, it’s okay to move on. And if you decide to do so, I gently encourage you to speak with your therapist before ending the relationship — that conversation alone might bring clarity, or even healing.
This isn’t just about finding help. This is about you choosing someone to walk beside you — someone who can hold space for your story, your silence, your questions, your becoming, and your unfolding. There are many good therapists out there. And there is one — or more — who may be just right for you.
Feeling a Quiet Yes?
If what you read resonates, I may be the right therapist for you. You’re welcome to reach out for a brief 15–20 minute connection call. There’s no cost or commitment, just a chance to meet. You can contact me through the form On My Website.
Note: The reflections and resources shared here are not intended to replace therapy, professional training, or psychoeducational services. Please see the full Disclaimer and Terms of Use for more information.